If you’re craving a comforting, irresistibly cheesy side that will steal the show at any gathering, you have to try this Rich & Creamy Million Dollar Potato Casserole Recipe. It’s a perfect harmony of tender hash browns and luscious cheeses, all topped with a golden, buttery cracker crust that delivers the ultimate flavor and texture contrast. This casserole has become a dependable favorite for potlucks, family dinners, and holidays alike because it checks every box: rich, creamy, crowd-pleasing, and unbelievably easy to make.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple yet essential ingredients is the key to making this Rich & Creamy Million Dollar Potato Casserole Recipe truly shine. Each one plays an important role, whether it’s adding richness, creaminess, or a delightful crunch that elevates the dish from good to unforgettable.
- Frozen diced hash brown potatoes (6 cups / 1.4kg): The hearty base that soaks up all the creamy goodness while providing a satisfying bite.
- Cream cheese (1 package / 8 oz / 226g), softened: Adds a velvety creaminess that binds everything together smoothly.
- Sour cream (1 cup / 240g): Brings tang and moisture to brighten the flavors and keep the casserole luscious.
- Shredded sharp cheddar cheese (1½ cups / 170g): For that bold, gooey melt that gives each mouthful a distinctive cheesy punch.
- Garlic powder (1 tsp): Infuses the dish with a gentle depth of savory warmth.
- Onion powder (½ tsp): Compliments the garlic with subtle sweetness and aroma.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings to balance and enhance every element.
- Crushed buttery crackers (1½ cups / 90g): Creates the irresistible golden topping that adds crunch and buttery flavor.
- Unsalted butter (4 tbsp / 56g), melted: Binds the cracker topping perfectly and lends richness.
- Chopped chives or green onions (2 tbsp, optional): Offers a fresh, colorful garnish that livens up the presentation and taste.
How to Make Rich & Creamy Million Dollar Potato Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13 inch baking dish. This ensures your casserole won’t stick and will bake evenly. Having your oven ready from the get-go sets you up for smooth sailing.
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Base
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sour cream together until silky smooth. This creamy duo forms the luscious foundation that envelops the hash browns, creating the rich texture you’re after.
Step 3: Add Cheese and Seasonings
Stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese along with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. These ingredients build layers of savory flavor that keep each bite interesting and comforting.
Step 4: Fold in the Hash Browns
Gently fold the thawed hash browns into the creamy mixture until every piece is coated. This step is key to ensuring that the potatoes soak up all the cheesy goodness and bake uniformly.
Step 5: Transfer to Baking Dish
Spread the mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish. Flatten it slightly to create an even surface for the delicious topping to rest on.
Step 6: Make and Add the Cracker Topping
Combine the crushed buttery crackers with the melted butter, mixing until the crumbs are fully coated. Sprinkle this mixture generously over the casserole for that signature crispy, golden finish.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Bake uncovered for 40 to 45 minutes until the casserole is hot, bubbly, and the topping is beautifully golden brown. This baking time allows those flavors to meld and develop that irresistible crust.
Step 8: Rest and Garnish
Let the casserole rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving. This brief pause helps it set slightly for easier serving, while the optional sprinkling of chopped chives or green onions adds a fresh pop of color and mild bite that balances the richness.
How to Serve Rich & Creamy Million Dollar Potato Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
While the casserole shines on its own, adding a sprinkle of fresh chives or green onions just before serving gives it a lovely burst of color and a slight oniony brightness. Crumbled cooked bacon or a dash of smoked paprika can also add a fun twist if you’re feeling adventurous.
Side Dishes
This potato casserole pairs beautifully with a variety of mains such as roasted chicken, glazed ham, or grilled steaks. Fresh steamed vegetables or a bright salad cut through the richness, making the whole meal feel balanced and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve individual portions in ramekins for a charming touch at dinner parties, or layer the casserole in a trifle dish to showcase the layers and textures. For a festive holiday table, top with edible flowers or herbs to impress your guests visually and gastronomically.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Allow any leftover Rich & Creamy Million Dollar Potato Casserole Recipe to cool completely, then cover it tightly and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It reheats wonderfully and keeps all its creamy, cheesy magic intact.
Freezing
You can freeze this casserole either before baking or after it’s cooked and cooled. Wrap it securely in plastic wrap and foil or use an airtight container, and it should keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating
Reheat portions in the microwave until steaming hot for a quick fix or warm the entire casserole in a 350°F oven covered with foil to prevent drying out, about 20 minutes or until heated through. Remove foil for the last 5 minutes to refresh the topping’s crunch.
FAQs
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?
While fresh potatoes can work, frozen diced hash browns are recommended because they have the perfect texture and convenience that keep this casserole creamy without becoming watery or starchy.
Is there a way to make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?
To keep it vegetarian, simply use vegetarian-friendly cheeses and butter. For a vegan version, substitute cream cheese, sour cream, and cheddar with plant-based alternatives, and use vegan buttery crackers. Keep in mind texture and flavor will differ slightly.
Can I prepare this casserole without cream cheese?
Cream cheese is crucial for the dish’s signature richness and creamy consistency, so it’s best not to omit it. You could try substituting with full-fat Greek yogurt mixed with a bit of cornstarch, but it won’t have quite the same luxurious texture.
How do I know when the casserole is perfectly baked?
The casserole should be bubbly around the edges with a golden, crisp topping. The entire dish will be heated through, and the cracker crust should feel crisp to the touch. Usually, 40 to 45 minutes at 350°F nails this every time.
Can I double this recipe for a larger crowd?
Absolutely! Just use a larger baking dish or two 9×13 pans and slightly increase the baking time. Keep an eye on the casserole as ovens vary, but the Rich & Creamy Million Dollar Potato Casserole Recipe scales up wonderfully for big gatherings.
Final Thoughts
This Rich & Creamy Million Dollar Potato Casserole Recipe is truly a showstopper—comforting, cheesy, and full of delightful textures that will keep everyone asking for seconds. Whether it’s a holiday feast or any day you want to feel cozy and satisfied, this dish delivers pure joy by the spoonful. I can’t wait for you to make it your own and enjoy every luscious bite with the people you love.
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Rich & Creamy Million Dollar Potato Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8–10 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Rich & Creamy Million Dollar Potato Casserole is a comforting and indulgent side dish perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings. Featuring tender hash browns mixed with cream cheese, sour cream, and sharp cheddar, all topped with a buttery cracker crust, this casserole bakes to golden perfection delivering a creamy, cheesy, and crunchy experience in every bite.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 6 cups (1.4kg) frozen diced hash brown potatoes, thawed
- 1 package (8 oz / 226g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup (240g) sour cream
- 1½ cups (170g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Topping
- 1½ cups (90g) crushed buttery crackers (e.g., Ritz)
- 4 tbsp (56g) unsalted butter, melted
Garnish (Optional)
- 2 tbsp chopped chives or green onions
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
- Create the Creamy Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, blend the softened cream cheese and sour cream together until smooth and homogenous, creating the base for the casserole.
- Add Flavorings and Cheese: Stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper into the cream cheese mixture. Mix well to evenly distribute all seasonings and cheese.
- Incorporate Potatoes: Gently fold the thawed diced hash browns into the creamy mixture until the potatoes are fully coated with the cheese and seasoning blend, ensuring even flavor throughout.
- Assemble in Baking Dish: Spread the potato and cheese mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, smoothing the top for even baking.
- Prepare and Add Topping: Combine the crushed buttery crackers with the melted unsalted butter in a small bowl. Sprinkle this buttery cracker topping evenly over the surface of the casserole to add a crunchy, golden crust.
- Bake the Casserole: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the casserole is hot, bubbly, and the topping turns golden brown and crisp.
- Rest and Garnish: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes to set. Before serving, sprinkle chopped chives or green onions over the top as a fresh and colorful garnish, if desired.
Notes
- Thaw the frozen hash browns fully and drain any excess moisture to prevent a watery casserole.
- Use sharp cheddar cheese for a robust flavor, but mild cheddar can also be substituted.
- Buttery crackers like Ritz add the best flavor and texture for the topping; alternatives can be used but may alter the taste.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute the crackers with gluten-free crackers or crushed nuts.
- This casserole can be prepared a day ahead and refrigerated; bake it just before serving.
