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Million Dollar Potato Casserole Recipe

4.8 from 148 reviews

Million Dollar Potato Casserole is a rich and creamy baked dish featuring thinly sliced potatoes blended with a luscious mixture of butter, cream cheese, sour cream, and spices, topped with melted cheddar cheese. This comforting casserole is baked to golden perfection, making it an ideal side dish for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Potatoes

  • 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced

Creamy Mixture

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

Cheese & Garnish

  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat and prepare baking dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
  2. Mix creamy base: In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, softened cream cheese, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and fully combined.
  3. Combine potatoes: Add the thinly sliced potatoes to the cream cheese mixture and gently toss to ensure all potato slices are evenly coated with the creamy mixture.
  4. Add cheese to mixture: Stir in 1 and 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese evenly into the potato and cream mixture.
  5. Arrange in baking dish: Pour the potato mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out into an even layer.
  6. Cover with foil: Tightly cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to retain moisture during baking.
  7. Initial baking: Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
  8. Add cheese topping: Remove the foil and sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
  9. Final baking: Return the casserole to the oven uncovered and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, until the cheese topping is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown.
  10. Rest before serving: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it stand for 5-10 minutes to set before serving.
  11. Garnish and serve: Optionally garnish with chopped fresh chives for a pop of color and fresh flavor before serving.

Notes

  • Use thinly sliced potatoes to ensure even cooking and tender results.
  • The dish can be prepared a few hours ahead and baked just before serving.
  • Substitute sharp cheddar for a stronger cheese flavor if desired.
  • For a dairy-free version, try using suitable cream cheese and sour cream alternatives.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven.

Keywords: potato casserole, creamy potato bake, cheesy potato casserole, comfort food, side dish, baked potatoes