This Golden Crispy Potato Casserole is your go-to comfort dish for any occasion. With layers of thinly sliced potatoes, creamy cheese, and a golden, crunchy top, it’s every bit as satisfying as it sounds. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a potluck contribution!
Russet potatoes are the stars here, chosen for their starchy texture which helps create a creamy interior. Heavy cream and unsalted butter work together to form the rich, luscious sauce. Sharp cheddar cheese adds a punch of flavor, while parmesan cheese provides a salty kick and helps with browning. Fresh chives bring a fresh, mild onion flavor to brighten up each bite. Garlic powder and onion powder add depth without the hassle of chopping. Salt and black pepper are the basic seasonings, and panko breadcrumbs are the key to that irresistible crispy topping.
This casserole pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. It's also a fantastic side dish for roasted meats or grilled chicken, making it versatile for multiple occasions.
First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that's warming up, grab your potatoes. Peel them and slice thinly – aim for about 1/8 inch thick slices. This helps them cook evenly and makes for a more cohesive dish.
Next, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, stir in the heavy cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until they're well combined. This mixture is going to infuse the potatoes with fantastic flavor.
Take a greased 9x13 inch baking dish and arrange half of the potato slices in an even layer. Pour over half of your butter and cream mixture, making sure each potato slice gets a bit of love. Sprinkle this layer with half of the cheddar cheese.
Layer the remaining potatoes on top, followed by the rest of the cream mixture. Finish it off by sprinkling the remaining cheddar cheese, parmesan cheese, and the panko breadcrumbs on top. The breadcrumbs are your secret weapon for that golden, crispy finish.
Cover the dish with foil to keep the moisture in and bake it in your preheated oven for 50 minutes. After that, remove the foil and let it bake for another 15 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving that beautiful golden brown, crispy top layer.
Once out of the oven, let it cool a bit before you dig in. Garnish with fresh chives just before serving to add a pop of green and a fresh flavor.