When it comes to side dishes, few can compete with the creamy, cheesy, and comforting flavors of Cheesy Potato Casseroles. Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner, a potluck, or a cozy family meal, these mini potato stacks are the perfect addition to your table. With layers of tender Yukon Gold potatoes, a hint of garlic, and a golden cheesy topping, this recipe is both elegant and easy to make.
Not only are these casseroles visually appealing, baked in individual muffin cups for easy serving, but they’re also packed with rich flavors. The combination of parmesan cheese, garlic, and paprika creates a savory, aromatic dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of main courses.
What I love most about this recipe is its versatility. You can dress it up with extra ingredients for a fancy dinner or keep it simple for a weeknight comfort food staple. Let’s dive into this cheesy, golden-brown goodness and discover why this dish deserves a spot in your recipe collection.
Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Potato Casserole
1. Easy to Make
This recipe comes together with just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, making it accessible for cooks of all levels.
2. Perfect Portion Control
Baked in muffin cups, each stack is a perfectly portioned serving, ideal for entertaining or family dinners.
3. Rich and Creamy Flavor
The buttery potatoes, parmesan cheese, and seasonings meld together into a dish that’s bursting with savory goodness.
4. Great for Any Occasion
From holiday gatherings to casual dinners, these cheesy potato casseroles fit the bill for any event.
5. Customizable
Add bacon, fresh herbs, or other cheeses to make this recipe your own.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make these delicious cheesy potato casseroles:
- 4 tablespoons melted butter: Adds richness and helps the potatoes crisp up beautifully.
- 5 pounds medium-sized Yukon Gold potatoes: Their creamy texture and mild flavor make them perfect for this dish.
- 3 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty flavor to the potatoes.
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder: Enhances the savory notes.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Adds depth to the seasoning.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: For a hint of smokiness and a vibrant golden color.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Brings out the natural flavors of the potatoes.
- 1 teaspoon ground white pepper: Adds a mild, earthy heat.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped): For garnish and a pop of freshness.
Preparation Time and Yield
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings (1 muffin cup stack per serving)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2: Prepare the Muffin Tin
- Using 1–2 tablespoons of melted butter, generously butter the wells of a 12-cup muffin tin. Set it aside.
3: Season the Potatoes
- Peel the Yukon Gold potatoes and slice them into ⅛-inch rounds using a sharp knife or mandoline slicer for uniformity.
- Place the potato slices in a large mixing bowl.
- Add the remaining melted butter, 2 tablespoons parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and white pepper.
- Toss the potatoes until they are evenly coated with the seasoning mixture.
4: Assemble the Stacks
- Layer the seasoned potato slices into stacks approximately 1½ inches high.
- Place each stack into the prepared muffin tin, ensuring they fit snugly.
5: Bake
- Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 1 hour, or until the tops and edges of the potato stacks are golden brown and crispy.
- Check for doneness by inserting a fork into the center of a stack—the potatoes should be tender.
6: Garnish and Serve
- Remove the muffin tin from the oven and allow the stacks to cool for 5 minutes.
- Carefully transfer the stacks to a serving platter using a spoon or spatula.
- Sprinkle the remaining parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley over the top.
- Serve immediately and watch them disappear!
How to Serve
Cheesy Potato Casseroles are incredibly versatile and pair well with a variety of dishes. Here are some serving suggestions:
- Holiday Dinners: Serve alongside roast turkey, glazed ham, or prime rib for a festive meal.
- Casual Dinners: Pair with grilled chicken, steak, or fish for a comforting weeknight dinner.
- Vegetarian Spread: Include as part of a vegetarian feast with roasted vegetables and a crisp salad.
- Potluck or Buffet: These individual servings are perfect for sharing at potlucks or family gatherings.
Tips for Perfect Cheesy Potato Casseroles
- Use Yukon Gold Potatoes: Their creamy texture and mild flavor are ideal for this recipe.
- Slice Evenly: Uniform slices ensure that the potatoes cook evenly. Use a mandoline slicer for precision.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Make sure the stacks fit snugly in the muffin cups but aren’t too tall to cook through.
- Add Cheese Mid-Bake: For extra cheesiness, sprinkle shredded cheese over the stacks during the last 10 minutes of baking.
- Rest Before Serving: Let the stacks cool slightly to make them easier to remove from the muffin tin.
Recipe Variations
- Cheddar Cheese: Swap parmesan for shredded cheddar or a mix of cheeses for a gooier texture.
- Add Bacon: Sprinkle cooked, crumbled bacon between the potato layers for a smoky twist.
- Herb Infusion: Add fresh thyme or rosemary to the seasoning mixture for an earthy flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder for a subtle heat.
- Creamy Layers: Drizzle heavy cream or béchamel sauce over the potato stacks before baking for extra richness.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze the baked stacks in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep for up to 1 month.
- Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed through, or microwave for a quick option.
FAQ
Q: Can I use other types of potatoes?
A: Yes! Russets or red potatoes work well, but Yukon Golds provide the best creamy texture.
Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the stacks and store them covered in the fridge for up to 1 day before baking.
Q: Can I double the recipe?
A: Absolutely! Use two muffin tins and bake them together, rotating the tins halfway through for even cooking.
Q: What’s the best way to slice the potatoes?
A: A mandoline slicer is the quickest and most precise tool for this recipe, ensuring even, thin slices.
Conclusion
Cheesy Potato Casseroles are the perfect combination of comfort and sophistication. Their golden, crispy edges and creamy, tender centers make them an irresistible side dish that will steal the spotlight at any meal. Whether you’re serving them for a holiday gathering, a potluck, or a cozy dinner at home, these potato stacks are guaranteed to please.
Not only are they simple to prepare, but their individual servings add an elegant touch to the table. So grab your Yukon Gold potatoes, preheat your oven, and get ready to impress your family and friends with these cheesy, buttery delights. Enjoy!
Print
Cheesy Potato Casseroles: A Comforting, Crowd-Pleasing Side Dish
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Individual stacks of thinly sliced potatoes, seasoned with garlic, paprika, and parmesan cheese, baked to golden perfection in muffin cups.
Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons melted butter
- 5 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes (sliced into ⅛-inch rounds)
- 3 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground white pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F and butter a muffin tin.
- Toss sliced potatoes with melted butter, parmesan, and seasonings.
- Stack seasoned potatoes in muffin cups.
- Bake for 1 hour until golden and tender.
- Garnish with parsley and serve warm.
Notes
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 1 month. Reheat in the oven before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American