Cheesy Potato Casserole from Ore-Ida Recipe

Name: Cheesy Potato Casserole from Ore-Ida
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: nonstick cooking spray; 1 (10.5 ounce) can condensed cream of chicken soup; 2 cups sour cream; 1 teaspoon salt; 0.25 teaspoon ground black pepper; 2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese; 0.33333334326744 cup sliced green onions; 1 (30 ounce) package Ore-Ida® Shredded Hash Brown Potatoes; 2 cups crushed corn flakes cereal; 0.25 cup butter, melted

Cook Time: 50 minutes

There's nothing quite like a cheesy potato casserole to satisfy all your comfort food cravings. With layers of creamy goodness, crispy topping, and hearty potatoes, this casserole is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

Cheesy Potato Casserole Ingredients

1 can (10.5 ounces) condensed cream of chicken soup
2 cups sour cream
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese
1/3 cup sliced green onions
1 package (30 ounces) frozen shredded hash browns
2 cups crushed corn flakes cereal
1/4 cup melted butter

How to Make Cheesy Potato Casserole

Preheat the oven to 350F (175C). Spray a 9x13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
Prepare the casserole mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, salt, and pepper. Once smooth, stir in the shredded Cheddar cheese, sliced green onions, and frozen hash browns. Mix until everything is well combined.
Transfer to baking dish: Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
Prepare the topping: In a separate bowl, combine the melted butter with the crushed corn flakes. Mix well.
Top the casserole: Sprinkle the buttered corn flakes mixture evenly over the potato mixture in the baking dish.
Bake the casserole: Place the dish in the oven and bake uncovered for 45-50 minutes, or until the casserole is hot, bubbly, and the top is golden brown and crispy.
Rest and serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This will allow the casserole to set and make serving easier.

How to Serve Cheesy Potato Casserole

This dish is versatile enough to be enjoyed any time of the day. For breakfast, pair it with crispy bacon and eggs for a hearty start to your day. For lunch or dinner, serve it alongside steak, roasted chicken, sandwiches, or a light salad. It also pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli.

How to Store Cheesy Potato Casserole

Store any leftovers in an airtight, shallow in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, you can use the microwave or place it back in the oven until hot and bubbly.

Can You Freeze Cheesy Potato Casserole?

Yes! If you have leftovers or want to prepare the casserole ahead of time, you can freeze it. Just transfer the unbaked casserole to a freezer-safe and store it for up to 3 months. When you're ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then bake it as usual.

Recipe Tips & Variations

For added flavor, you can mix in a handful of chopped red onions or minced garlic with the casserole mixture. If you prefer, substitute the corn flakes with crispy fried onions for a different topping texture. Some fans of this recipe also like to add a bit more cheese on top for an extra cheesy bite!

Nutrition Facts

Each serving (based on 8 servings) contains:

Calories: 434
Total Fat: 29g (38% Daily Value)
Saturated Fat: 18g (89% Daily Value)
Cholesterol: 73mg (24% Daily Value)
Sodium: 857mg (37% Daily Value)
Total Carbohydrate: 32g (11% Daily Value)
Dietary Fiber: 3g (10% Daily Value)
Protein: 13g (26% Daily Value)
Calcium: 281mg (22% Daily Value)
Iron: 3mg (15% Daily Value)

Enjoy this creamy, cheesy, and comforting casserole that's perfect for any meal! Its a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for more.

Cheesy Potato Casserole from Ore-Ida Recipe

Cheesy Potato Casserole is a beloved comfort food that has stood the test of time in many American households. The casserole, also known as "funeral potatoes" or "party potatoes," is a simple yet flavorful dish that has become a staple at gatherings, holidays, and family dinners.

History of Cheesy Potato Casserole

The origins of Cheesy Potato Casserole can be traced back to mid-20th century America. While the exact origins are not entirely clear, the dish is widely believed to have first gained popularity in the 1950s. At that time, casseroles were a common dish in American kitchens, with many recipes relying on affordable, pre-packaged ingredients like canned soup, frozen hash browns, and shredded cheese. These ingredients were not only cost-effective but also easy to prepare, making the casserole an ideal dish for busy families and large gatherings. Over the years, Cheesy Potato Casserole has become a symbol of comfort food, with various adaptations of the recipe being passed down through generations.

Regional Variations

While the basic version of Cheesy Potato Casserole remains the same, there are several regional variations that add unique twists to this beloved dish. In the Midwest, the casserole is often served as a side dish at church potlucks and holiday dinners. Some regions swap the cornflake topping for crushed Ritz crackers or French-fried onions, adding a different texture and flavor. In the South, you may find the casserole made with a spicy kick, incorporating ingredients like jalapeos or seasoned cheese blends. Additionally, in some variations, the casserole may include ham or bacon to make it even heartier.

Distinguishing Features

Cheesy Potato Casserole is often compared to other potato-based casseroles, but it has its own distinctive characteristics. What sets it apart is its creamy texture, achieved by combining sour cream and condensed soup. The use of frozen hash browns as a base is another unique feature, providing convenience and consistency in texture. The crispy cornflake topping gives the casserole a delightful crunch, which contrasts perfectly with the creamy interior. Unlike other potato casseroles that may rely on mashed potatoes or a different set of ingredients, Cheesy Potato Casserole is known for its rich, cheesy flavor and indulgent nature.

Where It's Served

Cheesy Potato Casserole is incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of settings. It is commonly featured as a side dish at large gatherings, including family reunions, holiday meals, and church potlucks. Its rich, comforting taste makes it a popular choice for Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners. Additionally, it is often served at funerals and memorials (hence the nickname "funeral potatoes") as part of a comforting meal for grieving families. Beyond these occasions, it is also a go-to dish for casual weeknight dinners or to bring to a friends housewarming party or BBQ.

Interesting Facts

Cheesy Potato Casserole is often called "funeral potatoes" due to its popularity at post-funeral meals, a tradition in the American West and parts of the Midwest.
The dish is believed to have been popularized in Utah, a state with a significant Mormon population, where it's a common part of gatherings and church events.
Despite its name, Cheesy Potato Casserole is not limited to funerals. Its equally beloved at happy events like birthday parties, barbecues, and holiday feasts.
The dish is so popular that it has multiple variations. For example, some people add bacon, garlic, or even ranch seasoning to the casserole for added flavor.

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FAQ about Cheesy Potato Casserole from Ore-Ida Recipe

Store leftover cheesy potato casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.

Yes, you can freeze cheesy potato casserole. Transfer it to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to three months. To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before baking it in the oven or microwaving.

Yes, this casserole can be assembled ahead of time. Prepare it, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. If you store it for longer, the texture may change slightly.

You can substitute corn flakes with crushed Ritz crackers, panko breadcrumbs, or French's fried onions for a different crunch and flavor. Adjust the amount of butter accordingly for each topping.

Absolutely! Many people add ingredients such as cooked bacon, diced ham, sautéed onions, garlic, or even vegetables like broccoli. You can also try mixing in different cheeses like pepper jack or gouda for a unique twist.

Yes, you can use fresh potatoes. Just peel and shred them, then cook them briefly in boiling water before using them in the recipe. Make sure they are cooled before adding them to the mixture to avoid excess moisture.

To add some heat, try mixing in some diced jalapeños, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or a spicy cheese like pepper jack. You can also add some hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the sour cream mixture for an extra kick.

Yes, you can substitute the cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom, cream of celery, or a similar condensed soup. Some people even use sour cream or French onion dip as a base for a different flavor profile.

The casserole is done when it is hot and bubbly, with a golden-brown crust on top. Typically, it will take 45-50 minutes to bake uncovered. You can check for doneness by inserting a knife or fork into the center; it should come out warm.

Yes, you can double the recipe. Use a larger baking dish (like a 13x9-inch or 15x10-inch) and increase the cooking time by 10-15 minutes. Make sure to check for doneness as it may take slightly longer to heat through.

Comments

Gabriele

10/06/2025 01:52:54 PM

I have been making this same exact recipe for years. It is a 10-star recipe in my family's opinion. I always have to double this recipe. The recipe I've been using called for frozen/thawed hash browns, but since I don't like to wait for them to thaw, I use "Simply Potatoes" hash browns in a bag usually found in the dairy section of the grocery store. They're already thawed. And they have a "southwestern style" type, too. Love love love this recipe.

angelinamarie3

04/02/2015 05:38:44 PM

Super easy and great for picky eaters. We have been making this for years and everyone loves it. It goes quickly at potlucks, but also keeps well for leftovers (if there are any). My only suggestion, is layering the ingredients & adding about 1/4 cup of milk to the soup/sour cream mixture (which is otherwise VERY thick). I place a layer of hashbrowns first, then spoon a layer of the mixture on top, repeating layers. Seems to hold together better and cook more evenly. It can also be quite bland without adding some extra spices, so I usually add some garlic powder, onion powder and whatever else to taste into the soup/sour cream/milk mixture. And for cheese lovers- sprinkling a layer of cheese on top, over the crushed cornflakes is a nice addition. This is a great recipe to make ahead of time and bake when ready- very hearty comfort food.

GlitzyBoard7063

02/02/2023 12:50:52 PM

My family loves this recipe enough that my boys will even reheat and eat leftovers. They don’t care for corn flake topping so I substitute crushed Ritz crackers and butter as topping instead. Try it and enjoy!

PlumBeef3871

11/08/2023 08:42:18 PM

This is an excellent recipe, but I use 1/2 cup of french onion dip in lieu of the sour creme and the green onions. I find that the 1/2 cup of the dip is very adequate for 30 oz. of potatoes. I also reduce the amount of cheese by 1/2.. It is very good this way also..

BMCDON4

12/25/2024 05:06:50 AM

This is a great recipe. I made a few tweaks which I think helped to improve it. First I sautéed a diced onion in butter and added that instead of the green onions. I doubled the canned soup and added extra cheddar cheese. I also doubled the cornflake topping. My family loves this dish!

Everetta Wildey

02/07/2023 10:11:34 PM

As is, four stars. It has a bit of sour from the sour cream, so good!! I wanted to tweak it a bit: Extra cheese on top, garlic and onion powder added to wet mixture. I bet bacon bits would be awesome. I also defrosted my potatoes first even though the recipe didn't say to. It just seemed like I should.

VanessaOrrMBA

01/04/2025 12:20:17 AM

Great hearty recipe, hits the spot. I wanted a saucy cheesy result, used: four cups shredded cheese, two cans of cream of poblano soup, Mexican sour cream (in addition to two cups regular sour cream) to boosted amounts of ingredients. Husband really enjoyed diving into this dish. We call this fantastic dish Party Potatoes. Fun keeper

leholland

12/25/2023 09:40:15 PM

Loved the recipe as is. Very good. Wondering if I could add some diced chicken breast or thighs, and maybe some carrots (sauteed with onion) I think next time I would add more cheese, maybe some pepper jack mixed with sharp cheddar. I did use the Ritz crackers, nd maybe a little less sour cream, as it seems to dominate the flavor for my taste buds.

Fred Ehorn

04/16/2020 11:11:31 PM

I couldn't get hash Brown, used crushed tater tots, couldn't get any green onions, used 1/3cup of yellow onion, grated fine. The tater tats took more liquid ingredients, added 1 cup of sour cream and 1 can of Campbell's cream of chicken soup! I have always used Pringle cheddar, chips, crushed (whole can), with 1/4 lb of butter for topping! My family LOVED this new mix, and will make AGAIN for thanksgiving !

Laurie

07/05/2023 03:06:53 PM

Delicious and very easy to make but takes a little longer to bake than recipe states. When I recently made it I substituted crushed ritz crackers for corn flakes and I may like this topping a little better. This recipe is always a hit and definitely a keeper.

Mary Sheridan

01/01/2025 06:59:34 PM

Have been making this recipe for years. We add ham and serve for dinner with veggies.

katie

08/15/2025 08:46:07 PM

Yes ...canned fried onions or panko crumbs instead of cereal or chips

Anne Poveromo

06/01/2025 04:18:45 PM

My family loved this casserole, but it was swimming in butter, causing the potatoes underneath to be soggy. I will make this again using half the recommended butter. Reheated nicely as well.

SnazzyTaro3806

05/26/2025 04:40:48 PM

I followed recipe to the T. This is my family favorite

Nicole Torres

05/03/2025 08:10:13 AM

Seriously, perfect 😱

Tyler Ramirez

04/30/2025 08:13:18 PM

Made it for dinner — gone before I knew it.

Kristin Ruiter

04/21/2025 02:44:07 PM

I used tater tots since hash browns were sold out. So yummy!!

EastWest

04/20/2025 12:54:09 AM

Pedestrian (and disappointing for the abundance of 5 stars). I always make recipes exactly as directed the first time. Someone suggested this for an Easter menu. For a 5-star dish, it did not knock my socks off, nor have I bookmarked it for future use. Hosted a number of people for an early Easter dinner and besides asking what it was (before they decided to put it on their plate) not one guest remarked how good it was, inquired about the dish any further (ex. ask for the recipe). To me, it was bland and if I were to make it again, I'd add more salt and seasoning, use panko, maybe some sauteed onions & peppers. As is, I, nor any guest, were not impressed. One good thing was that it was easy enough to gather ingredients > used Ore~Ida, Campbell's soup, and Kellogg's name brands.

Mary Sheridan

01/01/2025 06:59:34 PM

Have been making this recipe for years. We add ham and serve for dinner with veggies.

Sharon Miller Shankle

12/25/2024 09:41:16 AM

I added caramelized onion, bacon and, cream cheese, took out a bit of sour cream to make up for the cream cheese. Didn't have corn flakes so I just topped it with more cheese and backed until golden brown and bubbly