Old Fashioned Cheese Potatoes
Old Fashioned Cheese Potatoes is a comforting baked dish featuring tender sliced potatoes smothered in a rich, cheesy sauce. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, it offers a creamy, savory flavor with a hint of pepper that appeals to cheese lovers and comfort food enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a saucepan, melt the margarine.
- Add the flour, pepper, and salt; cook and stir until a thick paste forms.
- Gradually add the milk, cook and stir until the mixture begins to thicken.
- Add the shredded processed American cheese, cook and stir until melted.
- Place the peeled and thinly sliced potatoes in a greased 13 x 9-inch dish.
- Pour the cheese sauce over the potatoes.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using whole milk instead of low-fat options. If you're out of American cheese, try substituting with a blend of cheddar and mozzarella for a different flavor. To add a hint of garlic, you can mix in garlic powder with the flour. Make sure to grease your dish well to prevent sticking, and cover with foil for the first half of baking to retain moisture.
Serving Suggestions
These cheese potatoes make a delightful side dish for grilled meats or roasted vegetables. They pair beautifully with fried chicken or can be a hearty vegetarian option alongside a fresh salad. Consider serving with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for added flavor. For more comforting sides, browse more American recipes that bring warmth to your table.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the cheese potatoes in a baking dish covered with foil and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, but be cautious not to overheat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Old Fashioned Cheese Potatoes contains roughly 1323 calories, with 21g protein, 163g carbohydrates, and 65g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (61% of the Daily Value), protein (42% of the Daily Value), and calcium (38% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 894mg per serving (39% 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 recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cheese sauce and slice the potatoes in advance. Assemble the dish and store it covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
What type of potatoes works best for this dish?
Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for this recipe due to their starchy texture, which helps create a creamy consistency. Avoid waxy potatoes like red or fingerling varieties, as they won’t soften as well during baking.
Can I freeze the cheese potatoes?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled dish before baking. Make sure to wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before baking as directed. Note that the texture may change slightly after freezing.
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).