Get ready to transform your weekend dinner with the most irresistible potato dish that will have your family begging for seconds! These creamy, cheesy potatoes are not just a side dish - they're a culinary experience that combines comfort food nostalgia with gourmet-level flavor. Imagine perfectly tender potato cubes, bathed in melted butter and sour cream, then crowned with a golden, bubbling cheddar cheese topping that'll make your taste buds dance with joy.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 65 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 3 pounds potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a 9x13 inch baking dish by lightly greasing it with butter or cooking spray.
- Wash, peel, and cut potatoes into uniform 1-inch cubes to ensure even cooking. Rinse the cubed potatoes in cold water to remove excess starch and pat dry with clean kitchen towels.
- Place potato cubes in a large pot of salted water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to medium-high and cook for 10-12 minutes until potatoes are fork-tender but not falling apart.
- Drain potatoes thoroughly in a colander, then return them to the pot. Let them steam for 2-3 minutes to remove excess moisture, which helps create a fluffier texture.
- Add butter to the warm potatoes and gently mash, allowing the butter to melt completely. Use a potato masher or hand mixer for a creamy consistency.
- Fold in sour cream, mixing gently to maintain some potato texture. Season generously with salt and pepper, tasting and adjusting seasoning as needed.
- Transfer the potato mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading evenly with a spatula. Top with shredded cheddar cheese, covering the entire surface.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and begins to turn golden brown and slightly crispy at the edges.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the potatoes to set and makes serving easier.
- Serve hot as a side dish, garnishing with optional chopped chives or extra black pepper if desired.
Tips
- • Choose starchy potatoes like Russet or Yukon Gold for the best creamy texture • Always rinse and pat dry potato cubes to remove excess starch and ensure crispy edges • Don't overcook potatoes - they should be fork-tender but still hold their shape • Let potatoes steam after boiling to remove excess moisture for fluffier results • Use room temperature butter and sour cream for smoother mixing • Grate your own cheese for maximum melting and flavor • Let the dish rest after baking to allow flavors to settle and make serving easier • For extra richness, you can add a splash of heavy cream or a sprinkle of garlic powder • Garnish with fresh chives or green onions for a pop of color and fresh flavor
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 264kcal
Carbohydrates: 11g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Cholesterol: 53mg
