Cheesy Garlic Potato Casserole

Name: Cheesy Garlic Potato Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and sliced; 1 cup sour cream; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup butter, melted; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme; 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Cozy Classics

I can't get enough of this Cheesy Garlic Potato Casserole! Each bite is a delightful combination of creamy, cheesy goodness with a hint of garlic that elevates simple potatoes to a whole new level. This dish has become a staple in my home, perfect for cozy family dinners or when I'm entertaining friends. The blend of flavors and textures keeps everyone coming back for seconds. Trust me, once you experience the richness of this casserole, it will likely become one of your favorites too!

Created by

Lara

Last updated on 2026-02-07T22:41:28.207Z

When I first decided to make a potato casserole, I didn't expect it to turn out this well! I experimented with various cheese combinations, and the richness of cheddar with a touch of cream made all the difference. I found that incorporating roasted garlic adds an incredible depth of flavor that pairs perfectly with the potatoes.

What I love most about this casserole is how versatile it is; you can customize it with additional herbs or vegetables based on what you have on hand. This dish is a real crowd-pleaser, and I often find myself making it for both family gatherings and casual get-togethers.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy cheese that perfectly complements tender potatoes
Robust garlic flavor that enhances the comfort of home-cooked meals
Great for gatherings, it's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser

Mastering the Potato

When choosing potatoes for this casserole, russets are ideal due to their starchy texture that yields a fluffy interior. Make sure to slice them evenly, about 1/4 inch thick, to ensure uniform cooking. If you're in a hurry, you can microwave the potatoes for about 7-10 minutes to par-cook them before layering with the cheese mixture. This will save you time and still allow the potatoes to absorb all that creamy goodness during baking.

Don't skip the boiling step! Boiling the potatoes until slightly tender creates a beautiful, cohesive texture once they’re baked with the cheese mixture. If the potatoes are too hard when added, they may result in undercooked bites. By par-cooking them, not only do you ensure they finish cooking in the oven, but you also allow them to soak up the flavors more effectively.

Perfecting the Cheese Blend

Using both cheddar and Parmesan cheeses in this recipe adds depth to the flavor profile. Cheddar provides that familiar, gooey meltiness, while Parmesan gives a sharp, nutty contrast. If you want to experiment, consider using a mix of sharp and mild cheddar for a more complex taste or even Gouda for a smoky flavor. Just be careful with the amount; too much cheese can make the casserole overly greasy.

The creaminess of the sour cream not only binds the ingredients but also offers a tangy note that brightens up the dish. If you're looking for a lighter option, feel free to substitute Greek yogurt for the sour cream. It maintains the creaminess while adding a punch of protein and a bit of tang that complements the garlic beautifully.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients before you begin for a smooth cooking experience.

Ingredients

2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and sliced
1 cup sour cream
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup butter, melted
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/4 cup chopped fresh chives (for garnish)

Make sure to measure all ingredients accurately for the best results.

Instructions

Prepare your workspace and preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

Prepare Potatoes

In a large pot, boil the sliced potatoes until slightly tender, about 10-12 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Mix Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the sour cream, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, melted butter, salt, pepper, and thyme. Stir well to create a creamy mixture.

Combine and Layer

Add the boiled potatoes to the cheese mixture and gently fold until the potatoes are well coated. Transfer half of the mixture to a greased baking dish, layer with more cheese, and then add the remaining potato mixture on top.

Bake

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.

Serve

Let it cool for a few minutes before garnishing with chopped chives. Serve warm and enjoy!

Ensure your casserole is thoroughly cooked by checking that the potatoes are soft and the top is golden brown.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, sprinkle some extra cheese on top during the last 10 minutes of baking for a crispy finish.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This Cheesy Garlic Potato Casserole can be made ahead of time, perfect for meal planning or entertaining. Prepare the casserole up until the baking stage, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake it, add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheating is simple; just cover the casserole in foil and warm it in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. This method maintains moisture and prevents the cheese from becoming rubbery.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your serving experience, consider pairing this casserole with a fresh green salad or some roasted vegetables. The freshness of a salad can help balance the richness of the casserole, making for a more enjoyable meal. I often serve it alongside grilled chicken or fish for a complete hearty dinner.

For variety, think about toppings! Adding crispy bacon bits or French fried onions on top during the last five minutes of baking creates a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy potatoes below. You can also experiment with adding vegetables like sautéed spinach or broccoli for an extra nutritional boost.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes, feel free to experiment with cheeses like mozzarella or gouda for different flavors.

→ Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble it a day in advance, refrigerate, and bake it the next day.

→ What if I want to make this dish vegetarian?

This recipe is already vegetarian-friendly; feel free to add more veggies like spinach or mushrooms for extra texture.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.