Top 1 Cheesy Potato Recipes Side Dishes You’ll Crave Often

If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food that works perfectly as a side dish for just about any meal, look no further than this creamy, cheesy casserole known widely as funeral potatoes. This timeless dish is more than just a comforting bite—it’s one of the most beloved potato recipes side dishes for holidays, family dinners, and potlucks alike. With a crispy topping, velvety potato base, and irresistible cheesy flavor, this recipe has become a must-have on any dinner table. Whether you’re hosting a large gathering or need a reliable go-to for busy weeknights, this dish stands tall among the best potato side dishes you can make.

Loaded with shredded hash browns, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, and plenty of cheddar cheese, this casserole is both indulgent and simple. It’s easy to prepare ahead of time, travels well, and gets rave reviews from adults and kids alike. Plus, with a few easy add-ins and variations, you can easily customize it to your taste. So, if you’re exploring potato recipes side dishes for your next menu, this is one you’ll want to bookmark and make again and again.

What Are Funeral Potatoes? A Classic Cheesy Potato Casserole Explained

Despite the somber name, funeral potatoes are anything but sad. They get their nickname from their popularity at post-funeral meals, especially in the Midwest and among large family gatherings. However, today this dish has evolved beyond its origins and is now a staple at celebrations, Sunday dinners, and holiday spreads.

At its heart, this dish is a potato casserole made with frozen hash browns, sour cream, cream soup, shredded cheese, and a crunchy topping—usually crushed cornflakes or potato chips. The result is one of the most flavorful cheesy potatoes you’ll ever taste. It’s soft and creamy inside, with a golden, crispy top that adds texture and visual appeal. Many fans of potato dishes appreciate how flexible and budget-friendly this casserole is, which makes it one of the go-to easy casserole recipes for any skill level.

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Ingredients for This Comforting Potato Side Dish (Exact Quantities)

To make one of the best potato recipes side dishes, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 (30 oz / 850g) bag of frozen shredded hash browns, thawed
• 1 can (10.5 oz / 298g) cream of chicken soup
• 2 cups (225g) shredded cheddar cheese
• 1½ cups (340g) sour cream
• ½ cup (115g) melted butter
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups crushed cornflakes or potato chips (for topping)
• 2 tablespoons melted butter (for topping)

These ingredients are basic, but when combined, they produce one of the richest, most satisfying potato recipes side dishes you’ll ever try. Every element serves a purpose, from the soup that adds creaminess to the crunchy topping that provides contrast.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making This Easy Potato Casserole

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking. In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed hash browns, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, shredded cheddar cheese, melted butter, onion powder, and garlic powder. Stir everything until the mixture is completely uniform and smooth.

Next, season with salt and pepper to your preference. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly with a spatula.

In a separate bowl, toss the crushed cornflakes (or potato chips) with the additional melted butter until coated. Sprinkle the topping evenly over the potato mixture.

Bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown. Let the casserole sit for 10 minutes before serving to allow it to firm up slightly.

This simple yet flavorful process makes it clear why this dish tops the list of potato side dishes for any occasion.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need to Make Cheesy Potatoes

You don’t need any fancy tools to make this dish—just a few basic kitchen essentials:

• Large mixing bowl
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing spoon or spatula
• Small bowl for topping
• Oven mitts

Because it’s part of the best potato recipes side dishes, it’s also a favorite for beginners and experienced cooks alike.

Pro Tips to Perfect Your Potato Recipes Side Dishes Every Time

To make this dish even better, try the following tips:

• Thaw hash browns fully before mixing. Cold or frozen potatoes can result in uneven baking.
• Use freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-shredded for smoother melting.
• Let the casserole rest after baking so the texture sets and serving is easier.
• Add seasoning gradually and taste the filling before adding the topping.

With these small adjustments, your potato casserole will turn out delicious every time.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Potato Dishes

Even though this recipe is forgiving, a few common mistakes can affect the final result:

• Using watery hash browns: Be sure to drain or pat dry if there’s excess moisture.
• Over-baking: While you want the top crispy, too much time in the oven can dry out the interior.
• Skipping the topping: The crunchy layer adds flavor and texture—don’t leave it out!
• Undermixing: Make sure all ingredients are evenly incorporated to prevent flavor imbalances.

Avoiding these mistakes is key to mastering the art of potato recipes side dishes that people remember.

How to Customize This Potato Casserole for Any Occasion

What’s great about this dish is how flexible it is. You can easily adapt it depending on what you have on hand or who you’re serving. Here are a few ideas:

• Add cooked bacon or diced ham for extra flavor and protein
• Include green onions or chives for freshness and color
• Swap cream of chicken for cream of mushroom soup for a vegetarian option
• Try a mix of cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for variety

This ability to customize is one reason it’s so often included in collections of easy casserole recipes.

Serving Suggestions: What Goes Well With Potato Side Dishes

Because this casserole is rich and creamy, it pairs wonderfully with a range of main dishes and lighter sides. Try serving it with:

• Roasted chicken, grilled steak, or meatloaf
• Green beans, steamed broccoli, or a garden salad
• Dinner rolls or a crusty loaf of bread
• Light, tangy slaws to balance the richness

These combinations make it a standout among dinner sides and a fantastic companion to nearly any main course.

How to Store and Reheat Leftover Casserole Properly

Leftovers from this dish are not only welcome—they’re just as good the next day. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

To reheat, place the casserole in a 350°F oven for about 15–20 minutes, or microwave individual servings for 2–3 minutes. If you want the topping to stay crispy, use the oven instead of the microwave.

Freezing is also an option. Assemble the casserole but skip the topping, then freeze. Add the topping before baking straight from the freezer for a delicious make-ahead potato dish.

Make-Ahead Options for Easy Casserole Recipes

This dish is a time-saver when made ahead. You can prep everything up to one day in advance, store it covered in the fridge, and bake just before serving. If you’re planning for a holiday meal, this trick ensures your potato recipes side dishes are ready when you need them without last-minute stress.

For larger events or family gatherings, make two trays—one for now and one to freeze. This batch-cook approach is perfect when you’re feeding a crowd and want a reliable, satisfying dish on standby.

Variations: Add-Ins and Swaps for More Flavor

In addition to basic customizations, you can also explore fun flavor variations to keep things exciting:

• Southwestern Style: Add green chilies, corn, and cumin
• Breakfast Version: Mix in cooked sausage and scrambled eggs
• Herb-Infused: Use fresh thyme, rosemary, or parsley for brightness
• Italian-Inspired: Swap cheddar for mozzarella and add marinara sauce

These creative twists make it easy to keep your potato recipes side dishes fresh and exciting throughout the year.

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Who Will Love These Cheesy Potatoes and Why?

It’s no exaggeration to say everyone loves these cheesy potatoes. Kids enjoy the creamy texture and mild flavor, while adults appreciate how filling and comforting the dish is. It’s especially ideal for:

• Busy parents needing an easy, crowd-pleasing side
• Home cooks looking for potato dishes that go with any protein
• Hosts planning potlucks or group dinners
• Anyone who enjoys potato casserole with a crispy twist

That broad appeal is why it consistently ranks among the most-loved potato recipes side dishes on any occasion.

FAQs About Potato Recipes Side Dishes and Casseroles

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?
Yes, just peel and shred them. Be sure to remove excess moisture.

What’s the best topping—cornflakes or chips?
Both are great, but cornflakes give a lighter crunch, while potato chips offer a saltier, richer flavor.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely. Just use a vegetarian cream soup and skip the meat add-ins.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Yes. Assemble and freeze before baking for up to 3 months.

Final Thoughts: Add This Dish to Your Collection of Best Potato Recipes Side Dishes

This classic casserole truly earns its place among the top potato recipes side dishes for everyday meals and special events alike. It’s creamy, cheesy, crunchy, and above all—comforting. From its easy prep and flexible ingredients to its make-ahead convenience and universal appeal, there’s a reason this dish has stood the test of time.

So next time you’re planning a dinner menu, don’t settle for basic sides. Make this unforgettable casserole and enjoy the warmth, texture, and flavor that only the best potato side dishes can deliver. If you loved this recipe, be sure to share it with your friends, pin it for later, and subscribe to our blog for more recipes that turn everyday ingredients into something extraordinary.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Serves: 8–10 servings
Calories per serving: ~320–350 kcal (approx.)

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