Cheesy Potato Casserole Recipe: Baked, Creamy, and Crowd-Pleasing

This cheesy potato casserole is the ultimate comfort dish—creamy, rich, and baked to bubbly perfection. Loaded with layers of tender potatoes and melty cheese, it’s guaranteed to be a hit at family dinners, potlucks, and holiday gatherings.

1. How to Make

To make a cheesy potato casserole, layer sliced potatoes in a baking dish, cover with a creamy cheese sauce, and bake until golden, bubbly, and irresistibly smooth.

2. Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 6 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp flour
• 2 cups milk or half-and-half
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions or parsley (for topping)

Optional Add-ins:

• 1/2 cup sour cream for extra creaminess
• 1/2 cup cooked bacon or ham bits
• 1 tsp mustard powder
• 1 cup cooked chicken pieces
• Dash of chili flakes for heat
• Parmesan cheese for extra richness

3. Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 50–60 minutes
• Total Time: 65–75 minutes

4. Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a casserole dish.
2. Thinly slice the potatoes (⅛–¼ inch thick) and set aside.
3. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat, then whisk in the flour. Cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
4. Slowly add the milk, whisking until smooth and slightly thickened.
5. Stir in cheddar, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until the cheese melts into a creamy sauce.
6. Arrange half of the potato slices in the baking dish in an even layer.
7. Pour half of the cheese sauce over the potatoes.
8. Add the remaining potatoes and top with the rest of the sauce.
9. Sprinkle mozzarella on top for a golden, melty crust.
10. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
11. Remove foil and bake another 20–30 minutes, until the top is golden and the potatoes are tender.
12. Garnish with green onions or parsley before serving.

5. Servings

Serves 6–8 people.

6. Presentation & Decoration

Serve in the casserole dish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs and a light dusting of paprika for color. Add a few cheese curls or bacon bits on top for an extra decorative finish.

7. Best Time to Eat

Best enjoyed hot and fresh from the oven, especially for family dinners, weekend meals, potlucks, and festive gatherings.

8. Portion Guide

• Main dish: 1 large scoop (1–1.5 cups) per person
• Side dish: 1 cup per person
• Party buffet: Smaller ½-cup servings

9. Storage & Shelf Life

• Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for best texture.
• Can be frozen for up to 1 month; thaw before reheating.

10. Allergy Guide

• Contains dairy (cheese, milk, butter).
• Contains gluten if using wheat flour; substitute with cornstarch or gluten-free flour to make it gluten-free.
• Naturally nut-free.

Enjoy this creamy, cheesy potato casserole—comforting, baked to perfection, and guaranteed to please any

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this cheesy potato casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Add an extra 5–10 minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.

2. Can I use pre-shredded cheese instead of freshly grated cheese?
You can, but freshly grated cheese melts smoother and gives a creamier sauce. Pre-shredded cheese has anti-caking agents that may affect texture slightly.

3. How do I make this recipe gluten-free?
Replace the flour with 1–1.5 tbsp cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend. The sauce will thicken beautifully without changing the flavor.

4. Can I substitute the milk with something else?
Yes. You can use half-and-half, evaporated milk, or a mix of milk and heavy cream. For a lighter option, use low-fat milk (though the sauce may be less rich).

5. What proteins can I add to make it a full meal?
Popular additions include cooked bacon, ham, shredded chicken, ground beef, or turkey. Add 1–2 cups of cooked meat between layers for a hearty, complete casserole.