Cheesy Green Chile Potato Casserole
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with my Cheesy Green Chile Potato Casserole, a family favorite that elevates classic funeral potatoes to a whole new level with the addition of zesty green chilies. This creamy, cheesy dish is perfect for gatherings and pairs wonderfully with ham, making it an ideal side for any special occasion or holiday meal. The crispy corn flakes or potato chip topping add a delightful crunch that balances the rich flavors. This recipe is sure to become a cherished addition to your culinary repertoire!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
Potatoes
6-8 (peeled and grated)
Sour Cream
16 ounces (none)
Cream of Chicken Soup
1 (10 1/2 ounce) can (none)
Milk
5 ounces (can be adjusted as needed)
Cheddar Cheese
1 1/2 cups (grated)
Butter
1/2 cup (none)
Onion
1/2 cup (chopped)
Canned Diced Green Chiles
2 ounces (none)
Salt and Pepper
to taste (none)
Corn Flakes or Potato Chips
1 cup (optional, crushed for topping)
Instructions
1
Begin by boiling the potatoes, skin-on, along with a bay leaf for 20-25 minutes until fork-tender but firm enough to grate. Avoid overcooking to ensure the potatoes maintain their texture.
2
Once boiled, remove the potatoes and allow them to cool before peeling and finely grating them directly into a greased 9x13 baking dish.
3
In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the butter. Once melted, stir in the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, 1 cup of grated cheddar cheese, chopped onions, and canned green chilies. Mix until everything is well combined and heated through.
4
Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting as necessary for flavor.
5
Carefully add the grated potatoes into the saucepan with the cheese mixture, gently stirring to combine everything evenly. Gradually mix in the milk until you achieve a creamy consistency, ensuring the mixture isn't too wet.
6
Transfer the entire mixture into the prepared 9x13 baking dish, smoothing it out evenly.
7
Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole.
8
For added texture, if desired, crush the corn flakes or potato chips and evenly distribute them on top of the cheese.
9
Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the topping is golden brown. Serve hot and enjoy!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Cheesy Green Chile Potato Casserole?
It is an elevated comfort food dish based on classic funeral potatoes, enriched with zesty green chilies and topped with a crispy layer of corn flakes or potato chips.
How many potatoes do I need for this recipe?
You will need between 6 and 8 potatoes.
Should I peel the potatoes before boiling them?
No, you should boil the potatoes skin-on to help them maintain their texture while cooking.
How long do the potatoes need to boil?
Boil the potatoes for 20 to 25 minutes until they are fork-tender but still firm enough to be grated.
What type of cheese is used in this casserole?
The recipe calls for 1 1/2 cups of grated cheddar cheese.
Can I substitute the cream of chicken soup?
Yes, you can use cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup if you prefer a different flavor or a vegetarian option.
How much sour cream is required?
The recipe requires one 16-ounce container of sour cream.
What is the purpose of adding a bay leaf to the boiling potatoes?
The bay leaf adds a subtle herbal aroma and depth of flavor to the potatoes as they cook.
How many green chilies should I add?
The recipe calls for 2 ounces of canned diced green chilies.
What size baking dish should I use?
A standard 9x13 inch baking dish is recommended for this casserole.
How much butter is used in the cheese sauce?
You will need 1/2 cup of butter, which should be melted over low heat before adding the other sauce ingredients.
Do I need to add onions?
Yes, the recipe includes 1/2 cup of chopped onions for added flavor.
How much milk should I add to the potato mixture?
The recipe suggests 5 ounces of milk, but you can adjust this amount to achieve your desired creamy consistency.
What are the options for the crunchy topping?
You can use either 1 cup of crushed corn flakes or crushed potato chips for the topping.
At what temperature should I bake the casserole?
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) before baking.
How long does the casserole need to bake?
Bake it for approximately 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to bake it.
Is this recipe spicy?
The green chilies add a zesty flavor, but standard canned diced green chilies are generally mild. You can use 'hot' chilies if you prefer more spice.
What is the best way to store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days.
Can I freeze Cheesy Green Chile Potato Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze it. For the best texture, freeze it before baking and add the crunchy topping just before you put it in the oven.
How do I reheat the casserole?
Reheat portions in the microwave or place the whole dish in a 350°F oven until warmed through.
What should I serve with this dish?
It pairs exceptionally well with ham, roasted turkey, or any grilled meats.
Can I use frozen hash browns instead of fresh potatoes?
Yes, you can substitute the boiled and grated potatoes with a 30-ounce bag of frozen shredded hash browns.
How do I prevent the casserole from being too wet?
Gradually add the milk while stirring and stop once you reach a creamy consistency that is not overly liquid.
Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?
Yes, plain Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute for sour cream for a tangier flavor and extra protein.
Do I need to season the mixture?
Yes, season the cheese and soup mixture with salt and pepper to taste before adding the potatoes.
How do I prepare the topping?
Crush 1 cup of corn flakes or potato chips and distribute them evenly over the shredded cheese layer before baking.
Can I add protein to the casserole to make it a main dish?
Absolutely! Diced ham or cooked shredded chicken can be mixed in with the potatoes for a more filling meal.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
As written, it is not gluten-free because of the cream of chicken soup and optional corn flakes. However, you can use gluten-free soup and certified gluten-free topping substitutes.
Why is this dish a family favorite?
It combines the rich, creamy texture of traditional potato casseroles with a unique zesty kick from the green chilies, making it versatile for many occasions.