Cheesy Potato Layer Bake
Experience the delightful flavor of traditional pierogies without the hassle of dough with this Cheesy Potato Layer Bake. This hearty casserole combines tender lasagna noodles, creamy mashed potatoes, and luscious Velveeta cheese, all brought together by caramelized onions. Perfect as a stand-alone main dish served with a vibrant side salad or roasted vegetables, it's also a fantastic side option for gatherings. Each comforting layer is baked to golden perfection, delivering a satisfying, cheesy bite that will please the whole family.
8
Servings
400
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
Lasagna noodles
9-12 (cooked according to package instructions)
Butter
1 1/4 cups (divided)
Onions
4 medium (sliced)
Potatoes
10-12 medium (peeled and cubed)
Salt
to taste
Black pepper
to taste
Velveeta cheese
1 lb box (cubed)
Grated Parmesan cheese
to taste
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2
In a large skillet, melt half of the butter (1 stick) over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and sauté until they are golden and tender, about 8-10 minutes. Remove from heat.
3
In a large pot, boil the cubed potatoes until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and mash them until smooth.
4
In the mashed potatoes, stir in the cubed Velveeta cheese, salt, pepper, and the remaining butter until well combined and creamy.
5
In a 9x13-inch baking dish, spread a layer of cooked lasagna noodles on the bottom.
6
Top the noodles with one-third of the sautéed onions and one-third of the cheesy potato mixture. Repeat this layering process two more times, finishing with a layer of the potato mixture on top.
7
Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese generously over the top layer.
8
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, until the casserole is hot and bubbly and the top is golden brown.
9
Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your Cheesy Potato Layer Bake!
Nutrition Information
25g
Fat
40g
Carbs
10g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Cheesy Potato Layer Bake?
It is a hearty casserole that captures the flavor of pierogies by layering lasagna noodles, creamy mashed potatoes, Velveeta cheese, and caramelized onions.
Is the Cheesy Potato Layer Bake vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian as it contains no meat ingredients.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe makes approximately 8 servings.
What are the main ingredients for this casserole?
The main ingredients are lasagna noodles, potatoes, Velveeta cheese, onions, butter, and Parmesan cheese.
What temperature should I set my oven to?
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
How long does the dish need to bake?
The casserole should bake for 30-35 minutes until it is hot, bubbly, and golden brown.
Do I need to cook the lasagna noodles before layering?
Yes, the lasagna noodles should be cooked according to the package instructions before you begin assembling the dish.
What type of cheese provides the creamy texture?
A 1 lb box of cubed Velveeta cheese is mixed into the mashed potatoes for maximum creaminess.
How many potatoes are required for this recipe?
You will need 10-12 medium potatoes, which should be peeled and cubed.
How do I prepare the onions?
Slice 4 medium onions and sauté them in half a cup of butter for 8-10 minutes until golden and tender.
How many layers are in this potato bake?
The recipe calls for three layers each of noodles, onions, and the cheesy potato mixture.
What is the calorie count per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 400 calories.
How much fat is in one serving?
One serving contains about 25g of fat.
What is the carbohydrate content per serving?
There are 40g of carbohydrates per serving.
How much protein is in each serving?
Each serving provides 10g of protein.
What size baking dish is recommended?
A 9x13-inch baking dish is the ideal size for this recipe.
Can I use a different cheese besides Velveeta?
While Velveeta is recommended for its melting properties, you could use other melting cheeses, though the texture may vary.
Is there a specific topping for this bake?
The dish is topped with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.
How long do I boil the potatoes?
Boil the cubed potatoes for 15-20 minutes or until they are tender enough to mash.
Can this dish be served as a main course?
Yes, it is hearty enough to be a stand-alone main dish, especially when paired with a side salad.
What is the best way to serve this bake?
It can be served as a main dish or as a side dish for large gatherings and holiday meals.
How much butter is used in total?
The recipe uses 1 1/4 cups of butter, divided between the onions and the potato mixture.
Can I add meat to this recipe?
Though the recipe is vegetarian, you can add cooked bacon or ham between the layers if desired.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole in advance and store it in the fridge until you are ready to bake.
Can I freeze the Cheesy Potato Layer Bake?
Yes, the dish can be frozen either before or after baking; ensure it is wrapped tightly.
What makes this taste like a pierogi?
The combination of pasta, mashed potatoes, plenty of butter, and caramelized onions creates the classic pierogi flavor profile.
Is this recipe suitable for potlucks?
Yes, it is an excellent choice for potlucks because it is easy to transport and serves many people.
Do I need to peel the potatoes?
Yes, the recipe suggests peeling the potatoes before cubing and boiling them for a smooth mash.
Should I let the casserole rest before serving?
Letting the dish cool for a few minutes after baking helps the layers set and makes it easier to slice.