Name: Simple Cheesy Potatoes Recipe for Effortless Cooking
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 pounds russet potatoes; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 4 tablespoons butter; 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 2 cups whole milk; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional); 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)

This Simple Cheesy Potatoes recipe is the ultimate comfort food you didn’t know you needed. With golden, tender potatoes smothered in a rich, velvety cheese sauce and baked until bubbly and golden on top, it’s a dish that pairs perfectly with nearly any meal or shines beautifully on its own. It’s a quick-prep casserole that transforms humble pantry ingredients into a cheesy, crowd-pleasing side.

Perfect for weeknight dinners, weekend potlucks, or holiday feasts, these cheesy potatoes are all about simplicity and flavor. The texture is creamy inside with a slightly crispy, golden top layer that keeps everyone going back for seconds. This recipe is proof that effortless cooking doesn’t have to compromise on taste or presentation.

Why You’ll Love This Simple Cheesy Potatoes Recipe

Effortless to prepare: Only a few basic steps, and most of the magic happens in the oven.
Perfect side dish: Complements everything from roast meats to grilled veggies.
Crowd-pleaser: A consistent hit at gatherings, no matter the season.
Budget-friendly: Uses ingredients you likely already have on hand.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To get the most out of this recipe, having the right tools can make all the difference:

Large Mixing Bowl: For tossing the potatoes with cheese and seasonings. A deep bowl prevents spills and allows for even coating.
Sharp Knife & Cutting Board: Ensures uniform potato cubes for even cooking.
Box Grater or Pre-Shredded Cheese: Freshly grated cheese melts better, but pre-shredded works fine for convenience.
9×13-inch Baking Dish: The ideal size to bake evenly and get those golden, crispy edges.
Aluminum Foil: Used to cover the dish initially to allow even heating, then removed for browning.

These tools are kitchen basics, but each plays a crucial role in creating a dish that looks as good as it tastes.

Ingredients for the Simple Cheesy Potatoes Recipe

Russet Potatoes: Their starchy structure makes them ideal for baking into tender cubes that soak up the creamy cheese sauce.
Cheddar Cheese: The star of the dish—melts beautifully and adds sharp, rich flavor.
Butter: Adds richness and helps develop the golden crust on top.
All-Purpose Flour: Used to create a roux that thickens the cheese sauce perfectly.
Milk: Provides the creamy base for the sauce; whole milk gives the best texture.
Salt & Pepper: Enhances and balances all the flavors.
Garlic Powder: Subtle background flavor that deepens the cheesy richness.
Paprika (Optional): Adds mild smokiness and a pop of color on top.
Fresh Parsley (Optional): For garnish and a touch of freshness.

How To Make the Simple Cheesy Potatoes Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.

Step 2: Boil the Potatoes

Peel and cube the russet potatoes. Boil them in salted water for about 10 minutes, just until tender but not fully cooked. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. Slowly pour in milk, whisking continuously until smooth. Let it thicken slightly, then stir in shredded cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Stir until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Combine and Layer

In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained potatoes and cheese sauce. Toss gently to coat. Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread evenly.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil, sprinkle extra cheese and paprika on top, then bake for another 15-20 minutes until golden and bubbly.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Let cool for a few minutes, then sprinkle with fresh parsley if using. Serve warm as a side or enjoy as a main course!

How to Serve and Store Simple Cheesy Potatoes

These Simple Cheesy Potatoes are incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. They pair perfectly with baked chicken, grilled steak, or even as part of a cozy vegetarian meal. For brunch, they work beautifully next to scrambled eggs and crispy bacon. Serve them straight from the oven for the best gooey texture and crisp top.

To store, let the potatoes cool completely, then cover the baking dish tightly with foil or transfer to an airtight container. They’ll keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for quick leftovers.

You can also freeze them in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of potato is best for cheesy potatoes?

Russet potatoes work best because of their high starch content, which helps them hold their shape and absorb the creamy cheese sauce without turning mushy.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the dish up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking directly from the fridge.

Can I use a different cheese?

Absolutely. While sharp cheddar is a classic, you can mix in mozzarella for meltiness, pepper jack for a kick, or even a little parmesan for extra depth.

Is it necessary to boil the potatoes first?

Parboiling helps ensure that the potatoes cook evenly in the oven without drying out. Skipping this step might result in undercooked centers.

How do I get that crispy top?

Removing the foil for the last 15-20 minutes of baking and sprinkling extra cheese on top creates that golden, slightly crisp layer that everyone loves.