Cheesy Potato Casserole from Ore-Ida: A Comforting, Creamy Dish

This Cheesy Potato Casserole from Ore-Ida is the ultimate comfort food. With a rich combination of shredded hash browns, sour cream, and Cheddar cheese, all topped with a crispy cornflake topping, it’s the perfect dish to serve as a main course for an easy meal or as a creamy side for any holiday gathering. This simple yet satisfying casserole is sure to become a family favorite.

Quick Benefits

• Quick and Easy to Make: With only 10 minutes of prep time, this casserole comes together quickly and easily for a satisfying meal.
• Comfort Food Classic: The creamy, cheesy layers and crispy topping make this dish the epitome of comfort food.
• Customizable: This casserole is versatile and can be adapted to your tastes by swapping ingredients like the soup or cheese.
• Perfect for Holidays or Everyday Meals: Whether you’re looking for a side dish for a holiday meal or a simple weeknight dinner, this casserole works for both.

Essential Ingredients

• Nonstick Cooking Spray: Used to coat the baking dish, preventing the casserole from sticking.
• Condensed Cream of Chicken Soup (1 can, 10.5 ounces): Forms the creamy base of the casserole, adding richness and flavor.
• Sour Cream (2 cups): Adds tang and creaminess to the casserole.
• Salt (1 teaspoon): Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
• Ground Black Pepper (¼ teaspoon): Adds a mild spiciness to balance the richness.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese (2 cups): Provides a creamy, melty texture and a sharp, cheesy flavor.
• Green Onions (⅓ cup, sliced): Adds freshness and a slight bite to balance the richness of the dish.
• Ore-Ida Shredded Hash Brown Potatoes (1 package, 30 ounces): The main ingredient, giving the casserole its hearty base and potato goodness.
• Crushed Corn Flakes Cereal (2 cups): Provides a crispy, crunchy topping for texture contrast.
• Butter (¼ cup, melted): Combines with the cornflakes to create the crunchy topping.

Preparation Steps

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray.
2. Make the Casserole Base: In a large bowl, mix the sour cream, condensed cream of chicken soup, salt, and pepper together until smooth.
3. Add the Cheese and Potatoes: Stir in the shredded Cheddar cheese, green onions, and shredded hash brown potatoes. Mix until well combined.
4. Transfer to the Baking Dish: Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Prepare the Topping: In a medium bowl, mix the crushed cornflakes with the melted butter. Sprinkle the cornflake mixture evenly over the casserole.
6. Bake: Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly, and the topping is golden brown.
7. Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Health Benefits

• Rich in Protein: With cheese, sour cream, and hash browns, this casserole provides a good amount of protein per serving.
• High in Calcium: The Cheddar cheese contributes to a healthy intake of calcium, supporting strong bones and teeth.
• Good Source of Fiber: The potatoes and green onions provide fiber, which supports healthy digestion and may help with cholesterol regulation.
• Comforting Yet Balanced: While it’s indulgent, this casserole offers a balanced mix of protein, carbohydrates, and fat, making it a satisfying meal.

Serving Suggestions

• As a Main Dish: Serve this cheesy potato casserole on its own as a main course for a comforting dinner.
• As a Side Dish: Pair it with roast chicken, pork, or a fresh salad to round out your meal.
• Top with Extra Green Onions: For extra flavor and a burst of color, garnish the casserole with additional sliced green onions before serving.
• Serve with Hot Sauce: If you like a bit of spice, drizzle some hot sauce or sriracha over the casserole to add a kick.

Creative Variations

• Add Bacon: For a smoky flavor, add crumbled bacon or bacon bits into the casserole mixture before baking.
• Make it Spicy: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the casserole for a spicy twist.
• Use Different Cheese: Swap the Cheddar cheese for Monterey Jack, Gouda, or a blend of cheeses for different flavor profiles.
• Vegetarian Version: Use a vegetarian cream of mushroom soup and skip the bacon or use plant-based butter to make this dish vegetarian-friendly.

Storage Tips

• Refrigerate Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freeze for Later: This casserole freezes well. After baking, let it cool completely, then cover tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven.
• Reheat Gently: When reheating, cover the casserole with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-30 minutes. Uncover during the last few minutes to re-crisp the topping.

Pro Tips

• Don’t Overmix the Potatoes: Stir the hash browns gently to avoid mashing them. You want to keep the texture intact for a hearty casserole.
• For Extra Crunch: Add more cornflakes on top before baking if you like a super-crunchy topping.
• Check for Doneness: Make sure the casserole is bubbling around the edges and the top is golden brown to ensure it’s cooked through.
• Use a Quality Soup: The flavor of the cream of chicken soup is essential, so use a high-quality or homemade version for the best results.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of hash browns?
Yes, you can use fresh potatoes, but you will need to peel, shred, and cook them before adding them to the casserole. Frozen hash browns save time and add the right texture.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake it. Just add the topping before baking and allow it to bake for 50 to 60 minutes if it’s cold from the fridge.

Can I use a different type of cereal for the topping?
While cornflakes are traditional, you can substitute them with crushed Ritz crackers, breadcrumbs, or panko for a different topping texture.

How can I make this casserole healthier?
To lighten up the casserole, you can use reduced-fat sour cream and cheese, and opt for a lower-fat or reduced-sodium cream of chicken soup.

This Cheesy Potato Casserole from Ore-Ida is a quick, easy, and satisfying dish that’s perfect for both weeknight meals and special occasions. With its creamy, cheesy base and crispy topping, it’s sure to be a hit at your dinner table!

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