Ultra-Creamy Cheesy Potato Casserole 

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What Is Cheesy Potato Casserole?

Cheesy potato casserole is a baked (or slow-cooked) dish made with:

  • Cubed or sliced potatoes
  • Cheese (usually cheddar)
  • Creamy elements like sour cream, cream cheese, or condensed soup
  • Gentle aromatics such as onion and garlic

The result is a soft, scoopable casserole with a lightly golden top and a luxuriously creamy interior — exactly like the texture shown in your image.

It’s known by many names:

  • Funeral potatoes
  • Cheesy hash brown casserole
  • Creamy potato bake

No matter the name, it’s universally loved.

Why This Recipe Works Perfectly

✔ Potatoes cook until tender without falling apart

✔ Cheese melts smoothly into the sauce

✔ Slow, even cooking prevents curdling

✔ Balanced seasoning keeps it rich but not heavy

✔ Feeds a crowd with minimal effort

Ingredients (Serves 6–8)

Potatoes

  • 1.2 kg (2½ lb) potatoes, peeled and diced (Yukon Gold or Russet)

Creamy Base

  • 200 g (7 oz) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 cup milk or light cream
  • 2 tablespoons butter

Cheese

  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • ½ cup mozzarella or Monterey Jack (optional)

Aromatics & Seasoning

  • 1 small onion, finely diced
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • Optional: chopped green chili or bell pepper (as seen in image)

Equipment Needed

  • Slow cooker or oven-safe casserole dish
  • Large bowl
  • Saucepan
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Knife & cutting board

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Peel the potatoes and cut them into small, even cubes (about 1–1.5 cm).

Why Size Matters

Small cubes cook evenly and absorb the sauce better, giving that creamy, spoonable texture.

Rinse the potatoes briefly to remove excess starch, then drain well.

Step 2: Sauté the Onion (Optional but Recommended)

In a small pan, melt butter over medium heat.

Add:

  • Diced onion
  • Minced garlic

Cook for 3–4 minutes until soft and fragrant (not browned).

This step adds depth and prevents raw onion flavor.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a saucepan over low heat, add:

  • Cream cheese
  • Sour cream
  • Milk

Stir gently until smooth.

Add:

  • Salt
  • Pepper
  • Paprika

Once smooth, remove from heat and stir in:

  • Shredded cheddar
  • Optional second cheese

Do not boil — gentle heat keeps the sauce silky.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

In the slow cooker or casserole dish:

  1. Add potatoes
  2. Add sautéed onion mixture
  3. Pour cheese sauce over everything

Stir gently until all potatoes are coated.

Step 5: Cooking Options

Slow Cooker Method (Like the Image)

  • Cook on LOW for 4–5 hours
  • Stir once halfway if possible
  • Potatoes should be fork-tender

Oven Method

  • Cover with foil
  • Bake at 180°C (350°F) for 60–70 minutes
  • Remove foil for last 10 minutes for light browning

Step 6: Rest Before Serving

Let the casserole rest for 10–15 minutes.

This allows:

  • Sauce to thicken slightly
  • Flavors to settle
  • Easier serving

Texture & Flavor Profile

  • Texture: Ultra-creamy, soft potato cubes
  • Flavor: Rich cheese, mild onion, gentle spice
  • Mouthfeel: Comforting, smooth, indulgent
  • Appearance: Creamy golden surface with visible potato pieces

Expert Tips for Best Results

✔ Use Yukon Gold potatoes for creaminess

✔ Shred cheese yourself (melts better)

✔ Low heat prevents grainy sauce

✔ Don’t skip resting time

✔ Adjust seasoning at the end

Delicious Variations

Loaded Cheesy Potatoes

Add cooked bacon bits and green onions.

Vegetable Version

Add corn, peas, or diced bell peppers.

Spicy Kick

Add jalapeños or chili flakes.

Lighter Version

Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Overcooking on high heat

❌ Using pre-shredded cheese only

❌ Not seasoning enough

❌ Cutting potatoes too large

❌ Skipping the rest time

Make-Ahead & Storage

  • Make 1 day ahead and refrigerate
  • Reheat gently in oven or slow cooker
  • Keeps 3–4 days refrigerated
  • Freezing not recommended (texture changes)

Serving Suggestions

Serve with:

  • Roast chicken or beef
  • Grilled sausages
  • Green salad for balance
  • As a holiday side dish

Perfect for gatherings and family meals.

Why Everyone Loves This Dish

✔ Comfort food classic

✔ Minimal prep

✔ Rich but balanced

✔ Feeds many people

✔ Always requested again

Final Thoughts

This Ultra-Creamy Cheesy Potato Casserole is the definition of comfort food. Warm, rich, and deeply satisfying, it’s a dish that brings people back for seconds every time. Whether cooked slowly like in your image or baked in the oven, it delivers unbeatable creaminess and flavor.

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