If you’re searching for that ultimate crowd-pleaser to bring smiles to any gathering, this Party Potatoes Recipe is pure magic. Cheesy, creamy, and topped with a satisfyingly crispy crust, it’s the side dish that everyone raves about. Using simple ingredients like hash browns, cheddar cheese, and a crunchy topping, this casserole delivers layers of comforting flavor that feel like a warm hug from the inside out. Whether it’s a family holiday, potluck, or casual weeknight dinner, this recipe turns humble potatoes into a star everyone will come back for seconds of.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but create the perfect harmony of flavors, textures, and colors that make this Party Potatoes Recipe so irresistible.
- Frozen hash brown potatoes (30 oz): Thaw them fully for a moist, tender base that soaks up all that cheesy goodness.
- Condensed cream of chicken soup (10.5 oz): Acts as the creamy binder that brings richness and depth without fuss.
- Sour cream (1 cup): Adds tang and silkiness for unbeatable smoothness.
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup melted + 2 tbsp for topping): Butter means flavor and helps the topping crisp up gorgeously.
- Chopped onion (1/2 cup): Offers a subtle sweetness and aromatic punch.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (2 cups): The star of cheesy comfort — sharp and melty.
- Salt (1 teaspoon) and black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Seasoning essentials that bring all the flavors to life.
- Crushed cornflakes or buttery crackers (2 cups): The golden, crunchy finish that contrasts beautifully with the creamy potatoes.
How to Make Party Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure your cheesy potato mixture won’t stick and will bake evenly. This foundation is key to classic baked goodness.
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine the condensed cream of chicken soup, sour cream, melted butter, chopped onion, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until you have a smooth and inviting base that will coat all those potatoes perfectly.
Step 3: Add Cheese and Potatoes
Next, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it’s evenly distributed. Then fold in the thawed hash brown potatoes carefully, making sure each shred is coated without smashing them. This step ensures every bite bursts with cheesy, creamy potato delight.
Step 4: Assemble and Top
Spread the potato mixture evenly into your greased baking dish for an even cook. In a separate bowl, toss the crushed cornflakes or cracker crumbs with the remaining 2 tablespoons of melted butter—this drizzle will create that coveted golden, crispy topping.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake uncovered for 45 to 50 minutes until bubbling hot and topped with a crispy, browned crust. The bubbling edges and crunchy topping make you know it’s ready for the table. Let it cool slightly so the flavors settle just right before serving.
How to Serve Party Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives provide a lovely pop of color and a hint of freshness that balances the richness. If you enjoy an extra tangy bite, a dollop of sour cream on top never goes amiss.
Side Dishes
This cheesy potato casserole pairs beautifully with roasted meats like turkey or ham, and complements green vegetable sides such as steamed broccoli or a crisp salad to cut through the richness. It’s the perfect versatile companion at any meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve individual portions in ramekins topped with additional cheese and a sprinkle of bacon bits for extra indulgence. You can also layer it in a trifle-style glass dish for a visually appealing buffet option that’s sure to spark conversation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers (which is rare!), store them covered in the refrigerator. Party Potatoes Recipe will keep well for up to 3 days, maintaining that creamy texture and crispy topping when reheated thoughtfully.
Freezing
You can freeze the casserole before baking. Simply prepare the mixture and cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap. Freeze for up to 2 months, then thaw in the fridge overnight before baking fresh with the topping added just before putting it in the oven.
Reheating
Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the whole dish in a 350°F oven until warmed through. To revive the crunch on top, remove any cover during the last 10 minutes of heating and keep an eye on that golden crust.
FAQs
Can I make this Party Potatoes Recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom soup for a delicious vegetarian version that still keeps the creamy texture and savory flavor.
What can I use instead of cornflakes for the topping?
Crushed buttery crackers work wonderfully as an alternative. You can also try panko breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter for a different, yet still crunchy, topping.
Is it possible to add extra ingredients?
Definitely. Feel free to stir in cooked bacon, diced ham, or chopped green onions to customize the flavor profile to your taste. Each addition makes this Party Potatoes Recipe uniquely yours.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the casserole up to a day in advance, refrigerate it without the topping, and add the buttery crunchy topping right before baking for the freshest crust.
How do I make the dish less rich?
Try using reduced-fat sour cream and cheese, or swap out half the butter for olive oil to lighten the dish without sacrificing flavor. Just keep in mind the topping’s golden crunch comes best with real butter.
Final Thoughts
This Party Potatoes Recipe is one of those unforgettable classics that feels like a warm hug and never fails to bring people together. It’s approachable, hearty, and endlessly adaptable, making it your go-to side for celebrations big and small. Go ahead and try making it for your next gathering—you’re going to love how it steals the show on every plate!
Print
Party Potatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 10 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This classic Party Potatoes recipe is a creamy, cheesy hash brown casserole perfect for gatherings and potlucks. Made with thawed hash browns, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, and a crunchy buttery cornflake topping, it’s an irresistible side dish with a golden, crispy crust and a rich, comforting interior.
Ingredients
Potato Mixture
- 1 bag (30 oz) frozen hash brown potatoes, thawed
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Topping
- 2 cups crushed cornflakes or buttery crackers
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven and Prepare Dish. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Mix the Creamy Base. In a large bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, melted butter, chopped onion, salt, and black pepper. Stir thoroughly to create a smooth mixture.
- Add Cheese and Potatoes. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, then gently fold in the thawed hash brown potatoes until everything is evenly incorporated.
- Spread Mixture in Dish. Transfer the potato mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out to an even layer.
- Prepare the Topping. In a separate bowl, toss the crushed cornflakes or buttery cracker crumbs with 2 tablespoons of melted butter until well coated.
- Add Topping to Casserole. Sprinkle the buttery crumb mixture evenly over the top of the potato mixture.
- Bake Until Golden and Bubbling. Bake the casserole uncovered for 45–50 minutes, or until the edges are bubbly and the topping is golden brown and crispy.
- Cool Slightly and Serve. Allow the dish to cool for a few minutes before serving to let it set slightly for best texture.
Notes
- You can prep this dish a day ahead and refrigerate—just add the topping right before baking to keep it crispy.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom soup.
- Add chopped green onions, diced ham, or cooked bacon to the mixture for extra flavor and protein options.
