Cheesy Potato Casserole

This comforting cheesy potato casserole is a crowd-pleasing, budget-friendly side dish or main that uses simple potatoes, cheese, and pantry staples. Creamy, golden, and full of flavor, it’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or when you need something hearty and satisfying. Bake it ahead and reheat easily for busy days.

Ingredients

  • For 6 to 8 servings, gather these affordable items:
  • 1.5 kg potatoes (about 8 medium, peeled and thinly sliced or diced)
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheddar and mozzarella)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 cups milk (low-fat or full)
  • 3 tablespoons butter or oil
  • 3 tablespoons plain flour (maida)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon paprika or red chili powder
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme or oregano (optional)
  • ½ cup plain yogurt or sour cream (for extra creaminess)
  • Optional topping: ½ cup breadcrumbs mixed with 1 tablespoon melted butter and a sprinkle of cheese

Direction

  • Prepare this cozy casserole with these straightforward steps:
  • Step 1: Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a large baking dish (9×13 inch or similar).
  • Step 2: Boil the sliced or diced potatoes in salted water for 5 to 7 minutes until just tender but not mushy. Drain and set aside.
  • Step 3: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté 3 minutes until soft. Add minced garlic and cook 1 minute more.
  • Step 4: Stir in flour and cook 1 to 2 minutes to make a roux. Slowly whisk in milk, stirring constantly until smooth and thickened (about 5 minutes). Remove from heat.
  • Step 5: Stir in 1.5 cups cheese, yogurt, salt, pepper, paprika, and herbs until melted and creamy. Fold in the parboiled potatoes gently to coat evenly.
  • Step 6: Transfer mixture to the greased baking dish. Top with remaining ½ cup cheese and optional breadcrumb mixture. Bake 35 to 45 minutes until bubbly, golden, and edges are crisp. Let rest 5 minutes before serving hot.

Nutrients Information

Per serving (about 1 cup, approximate values using low-fat milk and cheese)

  • Calories: 280 to 340
  • Total Fat: 12 to 16 grams
  • Saturated Fat: 7 to 9 grams
  • Cholesterol: 35 to 45 milligrams
  • Sodium: 450 to 600 milligrams
  • Total Carbohydrates: 35 to 40 grams
  • Dietary Fiber: 3 to 4 grams
  • Sugars: 5 grams (natural from milk/onion)
  • Protein: 10 to 14 grams
  • A good source of potassium from potatoes, calcium from cheese, and energy from carbs. Moderate portions make it a satisfying comfort food.

Recipes Credit

Inspired by classic American cheesy potato casseroles (like hash brown or scalloped potato bakes), adapted from desi homes using local potatoes , everyday cheese, and dahi instead of heavy cream. Draws from family-style recipes shared on budget cooking blogs, South Asian fusion ideas, and simple home-cook collections emphasizing oven-baked comfort dishes. Freshly tailored here for warm, cheesy, wallet-friendly meals everyone enjoys.