Grandma’s Cheesy Potato Puffs

Grandma’s Potatoes have always been the first thing to disappear from my family table Whether it is a holiday brunch or a comforting Sunday dinner these creamy cheesy potatoes with a crisp onion topping bring everyone back for seconds and sometimes thirds

Every time I prepare this dish the kitchen fills with buttery scents and I always catch my family sneaking bites as it comes out of the oven That is how I know it is a guaranteed hit

Ingredients

• Frozen diced hash brown potatoes: these save tons of prep time make sure to choose a brand with sturdy diced pieces that hold up in the oven
• Cream of chicken soup: this creates a creamy base for the potatoes and adds savory depth choose low sodium if desired
• Unsalted butter: use real butter for the best flavor and creamy richness look for fresh sticks with no visible discoloration
• Sour cream: brings tang and creaminess to the mix a full fat version gives the silkiest finish
• Shredded cheddar cheese: melts smoothly choose a sharp cheddar for big cheese flavor
• Sliced green onions: add a fresh bite select bright green vibrant stalks with no wilting
• Cheddar french fried onions: the signature crunchy topping look for a quality brand with bold flavor and crispy texture

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat and Prepare:

Start by preheating your oven to three hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit or one hundred seventy five degrees Celsius In a microwave safe bowl combine the stick of butter sour cream and cream of chicken soup Heat for about one to two minutes until the butter melts Stir until the mixture is smooth and unified

Mix and Layer:

Add the frozen hash browns shredded cheddar cheese and sliced green onions directly to the melted mixture Stir thoroughly so every potato cube is coated and cheesy Layer this mixture evenly in a nine by thirteen inch baking pan across all corners

Bake:

Slide the pan uncovered into your preheated oven Set a timer for fifty five to sixty minutes Bake until the potatoes are fork tender and the top is bubbling and golden do not rush this step as slow baking builds that signature comfort flavor

Add Crunchy Topping:

Take the pan out carefully and sprinkle the cheddar french fried onions evenly over the bubbling potatoes Make sure to reach every edge so each serving gets that crispy topping

Final Bake:

Return the pan to the oven for another five to ten minutes Watch closely so the onions crisp up without burning This final bake is what brings the textural magic

Serve and Enjoy:

Remove the pan and finish with a fresh scatter of extra sliced green onions Serve the potatoes hot spooning generously to get both creamy filling and crunchy crust

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The bite of green onion is my favorite part It wakes up the rich buttery center and every time I serve these my family lingers around the oven sneaking those first crusty bites

Storage Tips

Leftover potatoes keep best in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three to four days For reheating use the oven whenever possible especially to keep the onion topping crunchy The microwave is convenient but will soften the texture If freezing portion the potatoes to preserve the crispness as much as possible and always thaw overnight before baking again

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom or cream of celery if serving vegetarians Just keep an eye on the sodium level and adjust seasoning to taste If you do not have french fried onions a blend of buttered bread crumbs and extra cheddar can mimic that craveworthy crunch

Serving Suggestions

These potatoes are hearty enough to take center stage at holiday brunches but they also make the perfect cheesy side for roast chicken grilled steak or even a simple salad I love pairing them with something bright and tangy like a tomato salad to balance the richness

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Cultural and Family Context

This classic casserole has roots in midwestern gatherings where comfort and big batches rule the table My grandma always took pride in serving this at every family reunion She kept the recipe taped inside her kitchen cabinet and as kids we argued over the crispy corners That tradition continues in my own kitchen

Recipe FAQs

→ What makes the texture of these potatoes unique?

The combination of creamy hash browns and cheddar cheese provides a soft, luscious base, while cheddar fried onions on top add a crisp, golden crunch.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the potato mixture in advance and refrigerate it, then bake and add fried onions just before serving for maximum crispness.

→ What are ideal pairings for these potatoes?

They go well with green salads, steamed vegetables, or alongside grilled meats and roasted chicken to balance the creamy richness.

→ How should leftovers be stored and reheated?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain the crunchy topping, as microwaving may soften the onions.

→ Can I substitute different cheeses or soups?

You can swap cheddar for other melty cheeses and use cream of mushroom or celery soup for a different flavor profile.

→ Is it possible to freeze this dish?

Freezing is possible, but the texture of both potatoes and the crunchy topping may not remain optimal after thawing and reheating.