Potato Casserole Americana
Creamy and comforting potato casserole with rich sour cream and cream cheese, seasoned with garlic, salt, and pepper, topped with butter and paprika for a flavorful finish. Perfect for family dinners and potlucks.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Beat sour cream and cream cheese in a large bowl until blended.
- Add hot, cooked, peeled, and cubed potatoes; beat in milk and garlic powder, gradually beating until light and fluffy.
- Season to taste with salt and pepper.
- Spoon the potato mixture into a 2-quart casserole dish.
- Dot with butter or margarine and sprinkle with paprika.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F until browned.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, use full-fat sour cream and cream cheese. You can substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream for a tangy twist. If you're short on time, use frozen cubed potatoes but make sure to thaw them before mixing. Adding cheese, such as cheddar or mozzarella, can enhance the flavor profile. This dish is a beloved classic in American recipes, perfect for gatherings.
Serving Suggestions
This potato casserole is a fantastic side dish for barbecues or holiday dinners. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats or a fresh salad. Consider serving it alongside Cooked Pimiento And Cheese for a comforting meal or a slice of pie for dessert. It's also great for potlucks, where it can shine as a hearty vegetarian option.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover potato casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, covering it with foil to prevent drying out. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions, covering them to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Potato Casserole Americana contains roughly 314 calories, with 6g protein, 41g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (87% of the Daily Value), potassium (23% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. It also contributes 6g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 it in the dish, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if you bake it straight from the fridge.
Can I freeze the potato casserole?
Freezing is possible, but it may affect the texture. If you choose to freeze it, ensure it's cooled completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be stored for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
What can I add to the casserole for extra flavor?
Consider adding cooked bacon, sautéed onions, or herbs like chives and parsley for added depth of flavor. You can also mix in some shredded cheese for a cheesy version of this classic dish, enhancing its comfort food appeal.
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).