Excellent Potatoes
A creamy, cheesy potato casserole featuring shredded hash browns, topped with chopped onions and a rich sauce of cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and melted Cheddar. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, it offers comforting flavors and easy preparation for any occasion.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place frozen hash browns in a 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Heat the cream of chicken soup, margarine, Cheddar cheese, and sour cream just until melted.
- Pour the sauce over the frozen potatoes.
- Sprinkle chopped onions over the top.
- Bake at 325°F for 45 minutes without covering.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit of cream cheese or substituting Greek yogurt for sour cream. You can also use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns, but pre-cook them slightly. If you want a bit more flavor, add garlic powder or your favorite herbs. This dish is reminiscent of Hash Brown Cheese Potatoes, making it a great side for any meal.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is perfect as a side for barbecued meats or alongside Glazed Chicken Drumsticks. It pairs well with a fresh salad, such as a Ramen Noodle Salad, for a complete meal. Consider serving with pickled vegetables to add a tangy contrast to the creamy potatoes.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so in the oven at 350°F until heated through, which helps retain the crispiness of the top. You can also microwave individual portions, but be aware that this may make the potatoes a bit softer.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Excellent Potatoes contains roughly 682 calories, with 12g protein, 37g carbohydrates, and 55g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (23% of the Daily Value) and calcium (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1195mg per serving (52% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven. This ensures even cooking.
Can I use other types of cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp Cheddar cheese adds a nice flavor, you can substitute it with Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or even a blend of cheeses for a different taste. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile will change slightly.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Yes, you can easily make a vegetarian version by using a cream of mushroom or vegetable soup instead of cream of chicken soup. Ensure your cheese and margarine are vegetarian-friendly, and you can enjoy this dish without meat.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).