Cheesy Potato Casserole with Crispy Topping

Table of Contents

• Key Takeaways
• Why This Cheesy Potato Casserole Is a Must-Try
• The Story Behind This Family Favorite
• Perfect for Any Occasion – Not Just Funerals
• Tips for Making the Best Cheesy Potato Casserole
• Pairing Ideas and Leftover Magic
• Why Patricia Loves This Comforting Casserole

Key Takeaways

This cheesy potato casserole is the definition of comfort food: warm, creamy, and covered in a golden, crispy topping. It’s incredibly easy to make, ideal for dinner recipes, and always a hit at family meals and gatherings. Whether you know it as funeral potatoes or just crave a baked side dish that’s quick and easy, this dish never disappoints.

Why This Cheesy Potato Casserole Is a Must-Try

There’s something magical about a warm dish of cheesy potato casserole. From the gooey layers of sharp cheddar to the crunch of buttery cornflakes on top, it’s the ultimate side dish for comfort food lovers. I’ve made this dish for everything from Sunday dinners to holiday potlucks, and it always brings people back for seconds. It’s one of those easy recipes you’ll find yourself making again and again. And yes — it’s perfect for quick and easy recipes you can trust.

The Story Behind This Family Favorite

This casserole has earned a permanent spot in my family’s recipe box. Originally discovered at a gathering years ago, it quickly became a staple for everything from celebrations to casual weekday meals. What makes this cheesy potato casserole so memorable is how it brings people together with its familiar, savory flavor and old-fashioned warmth. No fancy ingredients — just honest, delicious food that comforts and satisfies.

Perfect for Any Occasion – Not Just Funerals

While some call them funeral potatoes, this dish is anything but somber. Think of it as a baked side dish that’s ready to shine on your Thanksgiving table, at a backyard barbecue, or even as part of your cozy winter meal rotation. It complements just about everything — roast chicken, glazed ham, or even a fresh salad. The main keyword, cheesy potato casserole, makes a savory statement no matter where you serve it.

Tips for Making the Best Cheesy Potato Casserole

To get that golden top just right, don’t skip the cornflake topping. For extra richness, mix in a bit of cream cheese or swap the soup for cream of mushroom if you’re cooking for vegetarians. And if you’re meal prepping? This casserole reheats beautifully. That’s why it’s a favorite in both quick and easy recipes and family meals categories.

Pairing Ideas and Leftover Magic

Serve this comforting dish alongside grilled meats, a crisp green salad, or even scrambled eggs for brunch. Leftovers? Toss them into a skillet with chopped ham or sautéed vegetables for a quick hash. With the main keyword, cheesy potato casserole, you’ve got a flexible favorite that keeps on giving.

Why Patricia Loves This Comforting Casserole

At Patricia Universe, I love sharing timeless comfort food that makes life easier and tastier. This cheesy potato casserole checks all the boxes — it’s easy, crowd-pleasing, adaptable, and downright delicious. Whether you’re hosting a crowd or feeding your own cozy table, it’s always a win. From our table to yours, I hope it becomes part of your favorite dinner recipes too.

Cheesy Potato Casserole with Crispy Topping

This cheesy potato casserole is the ultimate comfort food side dish for holidays and weeknight dinners alike.

Prep Time15 minutes mins

Cook Time45 minutes mins

Total Time1 hour hr

Course: Side Dish

Cuisine: American

Keywords: baked side dishes, cheesy potato casserole, comfort food, dinner recipes, easy recipes, family meals, quick and easy recipes

Servings: 10 servings

Author: Patricia

Ingredients

• 1 (30 oz) package frozen shredded hash browns, thawed
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
• 2 cups sour cream
• 1/2 cup chopped yellow onion
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 2 cups cornflakes, lightly crushed
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted (for topping)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 13×9-inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, onion, cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper.
3. Add thawed hash browns to the bowl and mix until fully coated.
4. Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
5. In a small bowl, toss the crushed cornflakes with the 2 tablespoons of melted butter. Sprinkle over the casserole.
6. Bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes, until hot and bubbly with a golden topping.
7. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

For added flavor, mix in chopped cooked bacon or green onions. You can also substitute cream of mushroom soup for a vegetarian version.