When I first decided to whip up these Simple Cheesy Potatoes, I was craving something hearty, cheesy, and deeply comforting without spending hours in the kitchen. This dish delivered all that and more — a bubbling golden crust, perfectly tender potatoes, and a rich, creamy sauce that just hugs each bite. It instantly became one of my go-to recipes whenever I need something satisfying yet easy to make.

The best part about these cheesy potatoes? They’re incredibly versatile. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner, a cozy brunch, or a holiday gathering, they fit right in. Plus, they’re a major crowd-pleaser. I can’t count the number of times guests asked for the recipe after just one bite!

Why You’ll Love This Simple Cheesy Potatoes Recipe

Effortless Prep: Minimal chopping and mixing make this recipe a true time-saver.
Rich and Creamy: Every bite is packed with velvety, cheesy goodness.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for breakfast, brunch, dinner, or potlucks.
Customizable: Easy to add extra flavors like bacon, chives, or different cheeses.
Family Favorite: Loved by kids and adults alike!

What Kind of Potatoes Should I Use for Simple Cheesy Potatoes?

When it comes to this dish, I’ve found that using starchy potatoes like Russets gives the best texture. They absorb all that creamy, cheesy sauce beautifully, turning wonderfully tender during baking. If you prefer a slightly firmer bite, you can go for Yukon Gold — they hold their shape better and add a buttery flavor that’s hard to resist. Honestly, you can’t go wrong; just make sure they’re cut evenly to cook at the same pace.

Options for Substitutions

One thing I love about these cheesy potatoes is how forgiving and flexible they are:

Cheese: If you don’t have cheddar, swap in mozzarella for extra stretchiness, or pepper jack for a bit of a kick.
Cream: You can use half-and-half, evaporated milk, or even a plant-based cream substitute if needed.
Butter: Dairy-free butter alternatives work if you’re avoiding dairy.
Potatoes: As mentioned, Yukon Gold or even red potatoes can work if that’s what you have on hand.
Add-ins: Feel free to mix in cooked bacon bits, sautéed onions, or even a handful of spinach for a tasty twist.

Ingredients for Simple Cheesy Potatoes Recipe

Every ingredient here plays an important role in making these cheesy potatoes truly irresistible:

Potatoes: The heart of the dish, providing a tender, hearty base that soaks up all the cheesy sauce.
Cheddar Cheese: Gives the dish its gooey, rich, and sharp cheesy flavor. Melts beautifully over the potatoes.
Butter: Adds a luxurious richness and helps create that creamy texture.
Milk or Cream: Forms the silky sauce that binds everything together. The more decadent, the better!
Flour: Thickens the sauce slightly, ensuring it clings perfectly to each potato bite.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning the potatoes and enhancing all the flavors.
Garlic Powder: Adds a subtle depth of flavor that makes the dish even more savory.
Fresh Parsley (optional): Sprinkled on top for a pop of color and a fresh herbal note.

Step 1: Prep Your Potatoes

Peel and dice the potatoes into small, even cubes. This helps them cook evenly and ensures every bite gets coated in that luscious cheese sauce. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s nice and hot when you’re ready.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour to form a smooth roux, then slowly pour in the milk or cream, whisking constantly. Let it thicken for a few minutes, then stir in the cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Keep stirring until you get a creamy, dreamy cheese sauce.

Step 3: Assemble Everything

Lightly grease your baking dish. Spread the diced potatoes evenly inside. Pour the cheese sauce all over, making sure the potatoes are fully coated. Give it a gentle toss if needed to distribute the sauce evenly.

Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection

Cover the dish with foil and bake for about 30 minutes. Then, uncover and bake for another 15-20 minutes until the top is gloriously golden and bubbly. If you love a bit of extra browning, pop it under the broiler for 2-3 minutes — just watch it closely!

How Long to Cook the Simple Cheesy Potatoes

The magic happens in about 45 to 50 minutes total:

First Bake: 30 minutes covered with foil, to let the potatoes soften without drying out.
Final Bake: 15 to 20 minutes uncovered, to create that irresistible golden, bubbling cheese topping.
Optional Broil: An extra 2-3 minutes under the broiler if you want even more crispy, caramelized edges.

Keep an eye on the dish toward the end — you’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is deeply golden and a knife slides easily into the potatoes.

Tips for Perfect Simple Cheesy Potatoes

Dice Evenly: Cutting the potatoes into uniform pieces ensures they cook at the same rate.
Use Freshly Shredded Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese has anti-caking agents that can affect melting. Freshly shredded cheese melts much smoother and creamier.
Don’t Overcook the Sauce: Once the cheese melts into the sauce, remove it from the heat. Overcooking can make the sauce grainy.
Season Well: Taste your cheese sauce before combining it with the potatoes to adjust the salt and pepper.
Grease Your Dish: A quick swipe of butter or cooking spray helps prevent sticking and makes clean-up a breeze.
Broil Carefully: If you decide to broil for extra browning, stay close — cheese can go from perfect to burnt in a flash!

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Using Waxier Potatoes: Varieties like red potatoes can stay too firm. Stick with starchy ones like Russet for the best, tender texture.
Not Thickening the Sauce Properly: If the cheese sauce is too runny before baking, it won’t coat the potatoes well. Make sure your sauce has a good body before pouring it in.
Skipping the Cover During the First Bake: Covering helps the potatoes cook evenly and keeps moisture locked in.
Adding Cheese Too Soon During Broiling: If you add extra cheese and broil right away, it could burn before the dish finishes browning. Let it broil just briefly at the end.
Overloading with Salt: Cheese already brings saltiness, so go easy when seasoning the sauce.

What to Serve With Simple Cheesy Potatoes?

These cheesy potatoes are the ultimate sidekick to so many meals! Here’s how I love to pair them:

1. Grilled Steak

The creamy richness of the potatoes perfectly balances a juicy, charred steak.

2. Roast Chicken

Simple, savory roast chicken meets its dream side dish with these cheesy wonders.

3. Fresh Garden Salad

The crisp, refreshing greens provide a light contrast to the creamy potatoes.

4. Meatloaf

A classic comfort food combo that feels like a warm hug on a plate.

5. Scrambled Eggs and Bacon

Turn it into an indulgent brunch by serving cheesy potatoes with a hearty breakfast spread.

6. Baked Salmon

The richness of salmon pairs surprisingly well with the creaminess of the potatoes.

7. Garlic Bread

If you’re feeling extra cozy, garlic bread alongside cheesy potatoes is a carb lover’s dream.

8. Sautéed Mushrooms

Earthy, buttery mushrooms complement the creamy, cheesy texture beautifully.

Storage Instructions

Simple Cheesy Potatoes store wonderfully if you happen to have leftovers (although that’s rare in my house!). Here’s how to keep them tasting fresh:

Refrigerator: Transfer the cooled potatoes to an airtight container. They’ll stay good for up to 4 days in the fridge.
Freezing: You can freeze cheesy potatoes too! Scoop portions into freezer-safe containers. They’ll last up to 2 months. Just know the texture may be a little softer after thawing.
Reheating: Warm them gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. If reheating from frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge first for best results. Add a sprinkle of extra cheese before reheating to freshen them up.

Estimated Nutrition

Here’s a general idea of what you’re getting per serving (based on a side-dish portion size):

Calories: ~280
Protein: 9g
Fat: 18g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 400mg
Calcium: 20% DV

Please note that these are estimates and can vary depending on the specific brands and substitutions you use.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other types of cheese besides cheddar?

Absolutely! You can substitute cheddar with mozzarella for a stretchier texture, or use Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile. Experiment and find your favorite!

2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the cheesy potatoes the night before and store them in the fridge. When you’re ready, just bake as directed. This can save you time when you have a busy day ahead.

3. Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

You can make a dairy-free version by using plant-based butter, a dairy-free cream alternative (like coconut cream), and dairy-free cheese.

4. Can I add other ingredients to the dish?

Definitely! You can stir in cooked bacon, sautéed onions, or even fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary. You could also add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.

5. How can I make the potatoes extra crispy on top?

For a crispier top, finish the dish by placing it under the broiler for 2-3 minutes. Just keep a close eye on it so the cheese doesn’t burn!

6. Can I use pre-cooked or frozen potatoes?

While fresh potatoes yield the best texture, you can use pre-cooked or frozen potatoes. If using frozen, be sure to thaw them before assembling to prevent excess moisture.

7. How can I make this recipe spicier?

Add a bit of heat with some diced jalapeños, spicy sausage, or a handful of hot pepper cheese to the mix. You can also sprinkle chili powder or cayenne pepper for a little kick.

8. How do I know when the potatoes are fully cooked?

You can check if the potatoes are done by poking them with a fork or knife. If it slides in easily, they’re perfectly tender. You’ll also notice the cheese should be golden and bubbly.

Conclusion

Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight meal or as the star of your holiday spread, Simple Cheesy Potatoes are sure to be a hit every time. The creamy cheese sauce combined with tender potatoes creates an indulgent dish that’s surprisingly easy to make. Plus, you can personalize it with different cheeses, toppings, and add-ins to make it your own. Don’t be surprised if it becomes your new favorite comfort food!

Simple Cheesy Potatoes Recipe for Effortless Cooking

Author: Sally Thompson
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

If you’re looking for a quick dinner idea that’s indulgent, comforting, and simple to make, Simple Cheesy Potatoes are the way to go! Imagine creamy, cheesy sauce enveloping perfectly tender potatoes, baked to golden perfection. Whether it’s a hearty side dish for a weeknight meal, a potluck favorite, or a perfect addition to your holiday spread, these cheesy potatoes are guaranteed to please.

This dish will quickly become a family favorite because it’s just so satisfying. The combination of melt-in-your-mouth potatoes and gooey cheese will have everyone asking for seconds. Plus, it’s so easy to customize with extra ingredients like crispy bacon, fresh herbs, or extra cheese!

If you’re a fan of simple, easy recipes that don’t require a lot of fuss but deliver maximum flavor, this one’s for you. Cheesy, creamy potatoes with just the right amount of crispy edges—what’s not to love?

Ingredients

Scale

4 large Russet potatoes, peeled and diced
1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons flour
1 cup milk (or heavy cream)
Salt, to taste
Pepper, to taste
½ teaspoon garlic powder
Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Prep the potatoes: Peel and dice the potatoes into small, even cubes. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Make the cheese sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add flour and whisk for about a minute to form a roux. Gradually pour in the milk or cream while whisking to avoid lumps. Let the sauce thicken slightly before adding the cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Assemble the dish: Lightly grease a baking dish. Spread the diced potatoes in the dish, then pour the cheese sauce over them, ensuring they’re fully coated.
Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Afterward, remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly. For extra crispiness, broil for 2-3 minutes.
Serve: Let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.