Ms. Owens' Potato Casserole
A creamy, cheesy potato casserole with a crispy topping, perfect for family dinners and potlucks, blending comforting flavors with optional savory add-ins.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook potatoes in salted water until tender.
- Mix cooked potatoes with grated sharp cheese, cream of chicken soup, chopped onion, and sour cream.
- Pour the mixture into a greased casserole dish.
- Melt butter and pour over the casserole top.
- Sprinkle with bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, and paprika.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes to 1 hour until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra creamy texture, consider adding a little cream cheese to the mix. If you're short on time, you can use pre-diced frozen potatoes instead of fresh ones. For a lighter version, swap sour cream for Greek yogurt. Ensure you evenly distribute the cheese for consistent flavor throughout the casserole. You can also add cooked bacon or ham for extra flavor, making it a great addition to any meal.
Serving Suggestions
This potato casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. It's perfect as a side dish for roasted meats or grilled chicken recipes. Consider serving it alongside a light soup or as part of a hearty brunch spread. For a festive touch, serve it during holiday gatherings where it can be a crowd-pleaser.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover potato casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, but the oven will help retain the casserole's crispy topping.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ms. Owens' Potato Casserole contains roughly 801 calories, with 17g protein, 109g carbohydrates, and 34g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (47% of the Daily Value), protein (33% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 559mg per serving (24% 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 the dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove the wrap and add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it's heated through. This is a great way to save time on busy days.
What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup?
If you prefer a vegetarian option or don't have cream of chicken soup, you can substitute it with a homemade white sauce or a can of cream of mushroom soup. Both options will maintain the creaminess of the casserole while adding their unique flavors.
Can I freeze potato casserole?
Yes, this potato casserole freezes well. After baking, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in foil or transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as usual until heated through.
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).