Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Easy Cheesy Potatoes are a comforting, crowd-pleasing side dish made with tender potatoes, creamy sauce, and gooey melted cheese. Whether served with weeknight dinners, holiday feasts, or potlucks, these potatoes are always a hit. Simple ingredients, quick prep, and rich flavor make this recipe a go-to for any occasion.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
russet or Yukon gold potatoes
cream of chicken soup (or cream of mushroom for vegetarian)
sour cream
shredded cheddar cheese
butter
garlic powder
onion powder
salt
black pepper
optional: chopped green onions or parsley for garnish
directions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Peel and dice the potatoes into small cubes. Boil in salted water for 8–10 minutes, or until just fork-tender. Drain well.
In a large bowl, mix together the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, melted butter, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese and the cooked potatoes until evenly coated.
Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until bubbly and lightly golden on top.
Garnish with chopped green onions or parsley before serving, if desired.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 6–8 as a side dish.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 35 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Variations
Add cooked bacon bits or diced ham for a meaty version.
Use pepper jack or mozzarella cheese for a twist on flavor.
Top with crushed cornflakes or breadcrumbs for a crunchy finish.
Swap in frozen hash browns instead of fresh potatoes to save time.
storage/reheating
Let leftovers cool before storing in an airtight container.
Refrigerate for up to 4 days.
Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 15–20 minutes or microwave individual portions.
Freeze for up to 2 months—thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as above.
FAQs
Can I make Easy Cheesy Potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the dish and refrigerate it unbaked for up to 24 hours.
Can I use frozen potatoes?
Yes, frozen diced or shredded hash browns work well and save time.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Use a gluten-free cream soup to make it gluten-free.
Can I make it without sour cream?
Greek yogurt or cream cheese can be used as substitutes.
What cheese works best?
Sharp cheddar is classic, but feel free to mix in Monterey Jack or Gruyère.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just use a larger baking dish and increase baking time slightly.
Why are my potatoes mushy?
Overboiling or not draining properly can make them too soft. Boil just until fork-tender.
Can I skip the soup?
You can make a homemade roux-based sauce as a substitute.
Is it kid-friendly?
Definitely—creamy, cheesy, and mild in flavor, kids usually love it.
Can I add vegetables?
Yes, try mixing in peas, bell peppers, or broccoli for added nutrition.
Conclusion

Easy Cheesy Potatoes are the ultimate comfort food—simple to make, endlessly adaptable, and irresistibly delicious. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or craving a cozy side dish, this cheesy classic is sure to satisfy.
Easy Cheesy Potatoes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Easy Cheesy Potatoes are a comforting and creamy side dish made with tender potatoes, melty cheese, and a simple creamy sauce. Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or everyday dinners.
Ingredients
- 6 cups diced potatoes (about 4–5 medium potatoes)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup chopped onions
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup crushed cornflakes or breadcrumbs (optional topping)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, melted butter, onions, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and diced potatoes until well mixed.
- Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- If using topping, mix crushed cornflakes or breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons melted butter and sprinkle over the top.
- Bake uncovered for 45–55 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown.
- Let sit for 5–10 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Use frozen diced hash browns for a shortcut—no need to thaw.
- You can substitute cream of mushroom soup for a vegetarian version.
- Top with extra cheese during the last 10 minutes of baking for a cheesier finish.