Thanksgiving Cheesy Potatoes

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There are a few dishes that never fail to bring the table to life on Thanksgiving, and this one tops my list every single year. These Thanksgiving Cheesy Potatoes are creamy, cheesy, crispy on top, and impossibly comforting. Whether I’m making them for a big holiday gathering or just a cozy night with family, the way people light up when they take a bite tells me everything I need to know.

I’ve tested different versions over the years—some with sour cream, others with different cheese blends—but this version is the one that never lets me down. It’s rich without being too heavy, has the perfect texture contrast, and comes together so easily. Even picky eaters or “not-so-sure-about-potatoes” folks always come back for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Thanksgiving Cheesy Potatoes

This dish delivers classic comfort with very little effort. The potatoes get perfectly tender while the top turns golden and crisp, thanks to the cheddar cheese. It’s a great make-ahead option, too, which is always a blessing when juggling multiple Thanksgiving dishes. Plus, it’s vegetarian-friendly and crowd-pleasing, making it a dependable side for guests of all kinds.

What Kind of Potatoes Should I Use?

I always go with frozen hash brown potatoes—the cubed kind, not shredded. They save a ton of time and work beautifully in this dish because they hold their shape well. If you’re in a pinch or prefer fresh, peeled and cubed russet or Yukon gold potatoes will also work, just be sure to parboil them first.

Options for Substitutions

You can definitely play around with this recipe to suit your taste or dietary needs. Swap cheddar for a mix of mozzarella and parmesan if you want a gooier, more Italian-style version. Greek yogurt can take the place of sour cream for a slightly tangier but still creamy texture. And if you need it gluten-free, just be sure your soup and toppings are labeled safe.

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Ingredients for this Thanksgiving Cheesy Potatoes

Frozen cubed hash brown potatoes: These are the heart of the dish. They provide the soft, starchy base and make prep a breeze.

Sharp cheddar cheese: Gives the dish its bold cheesy flavor and beautiful golden crust. A must for that gooey, melty top.

Cream of chicken soup: Adds richness and creaminess to bind everything together. It’s the secret to that smooth, comforting texture.

Sour cream: Provides tang and creaminess that balances out the cheese. It also adds body to the dish without making it too heavy.

Butter: Helps everything meld together and adds that unmistakable buttery warmth.

Green onions: These bring a fresh contrast to the richness of the dish and add color to the top.

Salt and pepper: Just a touch enhances the other flavors and makes the cheesy goodness pop.

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Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with a little butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Combine the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, stir together the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, melted butter, salt, pepper, and 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese. Once smooth and creamy, fold in the frozen cubed hash brown potatoes until everything is well coated.

Step 3: Assemble in the Baking Dish

Transfer the cheesy potato mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly with a spatula. Don’t press too hard—you want the top to stay a little textured so it browns nicely.

Step 4: Add the Cheese Topping

Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top. This will form that golden, bubbly layer everyone fights over.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 45-55 minutes, or until the edges are bubbling and the top is golden brown. If needed, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end for an extra-crispy top.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Let the dish rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Sprinkle freshly chopped green onions over the top for a fresh finish and burst of color.

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How Long to Prepare the Thanksgiving Cheesy Potatoes

Prep Time: The prep for this dish is blissfully short—just about 10 to 15 minutes. Using frozen hash browns eliminates peeling and chopping, and since everything mixes in one bowl, cleanup is minimal.

Bake Time: You’ll need about 45 to 55 minutes of bake time. The potatoes cook through, the cheese melts, and the top gets that golden, crispy finish. If you want a deeper crust, give it a few minutes under the broiler.

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Tips for Perfect Thanksgiving Cheesy Potatoes

• Let the frozen potatoes thaw slightly for easier mixing and even baking.
• Use freshly shredded cheese for better meltability and flavor.
• Don’t skip the resting time after baking—this allows the casserole to set and makes it easier to serve.
• Add extra mix-ins like bacon bits, jalapeños, or caramelized onions to customize.
• Taste your mixture before baking and adjust seasoning if needed (especially salt, depending on your soup brand).

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Using low-fat sour cream or cheese: These can lead to a watery texture and bland taste.
• Overmixing the potatoes: You want them coated, not mashed—gentle folding is key.
• Skipping the top cheese layer: That golden crust isn’t just for looks; it adds essential flavor and texture.
• Covering the dish while baking: It needs to be uncovered to get that beautiful browning on top.
• Serving immediately: The casserole needs a short rest to firm up and become sliceable.

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What to Serve With Thanksgiving Cheesy Potatoes?

1. Roast Turkey

It’s a classic Thanksgiving pairing. The creamy potatoes balance beautifully with savory roasted meat.

2. Green Bean Almondine

A light and crisp veggie side that cuts through the richness of the dish.

3. Cranberry Sauce

The tartness of cranberry sauce brings a refreshing contrast to the creamy, cheesy base.

4. Glazed Carrots

Sweet and buttery carrots offer color and a different kind of comfort to the plate.

5. Stuffing

If you love double carbs on your holiday plate (who doesn’t?), stuffing complements the cheesy potatoes with its herby flavor.

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Storage Instructions

Refrigeration: Once cooled, cover the dish tightly with foil or transfer leftovers to an airtight container. It will stay good in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezing: You can freeze this dish before or after baking. To freeze before, assemble everything and wrap tightly, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking. To freeze leftovers, place in airtight freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.

Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. For smaller portions, the microwave works fine, though the texture is best when reheated in the oven.

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Estimated Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup (approx.)
Calories: 320
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 13g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 2g
Protein: 9g
Sodium: 640mg
Cholesterol: 55mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

How far in advance can I make this dish?

You can prepare the entire casserole a day ahead. Just cover and refrigerate. Add an extra 10–15 minutes to the baking time if going straight from fridge to oven.

Can I make this without canned soup?

Yes! You can substitute a homemade white sauce (butter, flour, milk, seasoning) if you want to avoid canned products.

Can I add meat to this dish?

Absolutely. Cooked bacon, diced ham, or shredded rotisserie chicken are excellent additions.

How can I make this spicier?

Add diced jalapeños, a pinch of cayenne, or a few dashes of hot sauce to the mix.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just use a larger baking dish or two 9×13 pans. You may need to increase the baking time by 10–15 minutes.

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Conclusion

Thanksgiving Cheesy Potatoes are one of those side dishes that everyone gravitates to. Creamy, cheesy, crispy, and soul-warming, they offer comfort and flavor in every bite. Whether you stick to the classic version or put your own twist on it, this dish will earn a permanent place at your holiday table. And maybe even on a few non-holiday nights, too. It’s just that good.

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