Ranch Potato Casserole
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food experience with this delightful Ranch Potato Casserole! Perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or cozy nights in, this creamy and cheesy casserole is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. With a mouthwatering combination of hashbrowns, sour cream, and ranch seasoning, every bite is a symphony of flavors that will leave you craving more. Join us as we uncover the secrets to making this irresistible dish and explore its endless possibilities.
Ingredients:
- 1 (32 oz) bag frozen diced hashbrowns
- ½ yellow onion, chopped
- 16 oz sour cream
- 1 (10.5 oz) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- ⅓ cup butter, melted
- 1 (1 oz) package ranch seasoning
- 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
Instructions:
1. Preparing the Casserole:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the frozen hashbrowns, chopped onion, sour cream, condensed cream of mushroom soup, melted butter, ranch seasoning, and 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until well combined.
2. Assembling the Casserole:
- Spread the hashbrown mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole.
3. Baking the Casserole:
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
- Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges are golden brown.
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Crispy Topping: For an extra crispy topping, crush some potato chips or cornflakes and sprinkle them over the cheese before baking.
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the cream of mushroom soup and use cream of celery or cream of potato soup instead for a vegetarian version of this casserole.
- Additions: Customize your casserole by adding cooked and crumbled bacon, diced ham, or sliced green onions for added flavor and texture.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Keto Version: To make this casserole keto-friendly, substitute the condensed cream of mushroom soup with a keto-friendly cream sauce made from heavy cream, cream cheese, and chicken broth. Use a low-carb ranch seasoning mix and ensure that the shredded cheddar cheese is low in carbs. You can also replace the hashbrowns with cauliflower rice or shredded cauliflower for a lower carb option.
- Low-Carb Version: Follow the same instructions as the keto version, but you can also reduce the amount of onion used or omit it altogether to further lower the carb content. Additionally, you can use a combination of shredded cheese such as mozzarella, provolone, or Monterey Jack for a lower carb cheese option.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- Q: Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hashbrowns? A: Yes, you can use fresh potatoes if desired. Simply peel and dice the potatoes into small cubes and boil them until tender before proceeding with the recipe. Be sure to drain them well before mixing with the other ingredients.
- Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake. Simply cover it tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap and bake it when ready to serve.
- Q: Can I freeze leftover casserole? A: Yes, you can freeze leftover casserole for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before wrapping it tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap and placing it in a freezer-safe container. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Ranch Potato Casserole is the ultimate comfort food dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its creamy texture, savory flavors, and cheesy goodness, it’s sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or main course, this casserole is guaranteed to satisfy even the most discerning of palates. So why wait? Whip up a batch today and treat yourself to a taste of comfort and indulgence that’s simply irresistible!
Experience the joy of Ranch Potato Casserole and elevate your dining experience to new heights. Your taste buds will thank you!