Mary'S Potato Casserole
A creamy, cheesy potato casserole with crunch topping, perfect for family dinners or potlucks, featuring savory flavors and comforting textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cover the bottom of a 9 x 13 x 2-inch casserole dish with 2 pounds of hash browns.
- Sprinkle the chopped small onion over the hash browns.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Melt 2 sticks of margarine and pour over the potatoes, saving some for the topping.
- In a bowl, heat and mix the 10 oz. can of cream of chicken soup, 16 oz. sour cream, and 16 oz. Cheez Whiz.
- Pour the mixture over the potatoes in the casserole dish.
- Mix the remaining melted margarine with 2 cups of crushed corn flakes.
- Spread the crushed corn flakes mixture on top of the casserole.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour until golden and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider substituting Greek yogurt for sour cream. You can also use fresh potatoes instead of hash browns; just peel and shred them before layering. Adding diced bell peppers or mushrooms can enhance the flavor profile. If you prefer a crunchier topping, try using panko breadcrumbs instead of crushed corn flakes for a different texture.
Serving Suggestions
This potato casserole pairs beautifully with grilled meats or a fresh salad for a complete meal. Consider serving it alongside Kim'S Fancy Fast Chicken for a hearty dinner. It also makes a fantastic side dish for holiday gatherings or potlucks, where it can be enjoyed by both kids and adults alike.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the casserole for about 20-30 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quicker option, ensuring they are heated evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mary'S Potato Casserole contains roughly 903 calories, with 8g protein, 69g carbohydrates, and 67g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (49% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (45% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2621mg per serving (114% 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 casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Assemble all the ingredients, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove the wrap and bake as directed. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Can I freeze this potato casserole?
Absolutely! You can freeze the assembled casserole before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and it will keep for up to 2 months. When you're ready to cook it, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as usual.
What can I substitute for Cheez Whiz?
If you prefer a different cheese, you can use a combination of cream cheese and shredded cheddar or a processed cheese sauce for a similar creamy texture. Just melt the cheese before mixing it with the other ingredients to ensure a smooth consistency.
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).