Name: Thanksgiving Cheesy Potatoes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 pounds frozen shredded hash brown potatoes; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 1/2 cups sour cream; 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup; 1/2 cup butter, melted; 1/2 cup finely diced onion; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 1/2 cups crushed cornflakes or crackers (optional topping); 3 tablespoons melted butter (for topping)

If there’s one dish that guarantees a second helping at the Thanksgiving table, it’s these rich, creamy, irresistibly cheesy potatoes. Whether you’re hosting or bringing a dish to share, this comforting side never fails to impress. It’s the kind of bake that sneaks onto everyone’s plate, whether they’re aiming for a bite or a full scoop.

Imagine golden layers of shredded potatoes baked into bubbling cheese, a kiss of sour cream, and a buttery crunch on top. It’s hearty, nostalgic, and cozy in the best way. Even among turkey, gravy, and stuffing, these cheesy potatoes often steal the spotlight—and for good reason.

Why You’ll Love This Thanksgiving Cheesy Potatoes

This recipe strikes the perfect balance between comfort and celebration. It’s easy to prepare ahead of time, which is a big bonus during a busy holiday. The flavors are simple but deeply satisfying, thanks to plenty of melty cheddar and the creaminess of sour cream and condensed soup. Plus, it’s endlessly customizable. Want to add a little spice or crunch? Toss in green chiles or crushed potato chips. No matter the tweak, it always works.

What Kind of Potatoes Should I Use?

The magic of this dish is that it actually relies on frozen hash brown potatoes, making the prep effortless without sacrificing taste. You can use diced or shredded—shredded tends to bake up creamier, while diced adds a bit more texture. Just make sure they’re thawed before mixing, so everything bakes evenly.

Ingredients for the Thanksgiving Cheesy Potatoes

You don’t need a long list to create a dish that tastes like it came from your grandma’s kitchen. These ingredients are pantry staples, but together they make something truly special.

Frozen hash brown potatoes
Cheddar cheese
Sour cream
Cream of chicken soup
Butter
Onion
Garlic powder
Salt and pepper
Cornflakes or crushed crackers (optional topping)

Each component brings comfort to the table. The hash browns are the sturdy base, soaking up all that rich flavor. Cheddar cheese delivers the melt and depth, while sour cream and cream of chicken soup create that signature creamy texture. A bit of butter, onion, and garlic powder gives it savoriness, and the topping adds a delightful crunch.

How To Make the Thanksgiving Cheesy Potatoes

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. This is your golden canvas.

Step 2: Mix the Filling

In a large bowl, combine the thawed hash browns, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, diced onion, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is evenly coated and well-mixed.

Step 3: Spread and Top

Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish and smooth out the top. In a small bowl, mix melted butter with crushed cornflakes or crackers, then sprinkle over the top.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Bake uncovered for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden and the edges are bubbling. Let it rest a few minutes before serving—if you can wait that long!

Serving and Storing Your Thanksgiving Cheesy Potatoes

This dish easily feeds 8 to 10 hungry guests as a side, especially when you’ve got a big spread going. It stays warm nicely on a buffet line or warming tray, making it perfect for holiday gatherings.

Got leftovers? Lucky you. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven for best texture or microwave if you’re in a hurry.

What to Serve With Thanksgiving Cheesy Potatoes?

Roasted Turkey

The main event. Cheesy potatoes are the creamy, cheesy counterpart to savory roasted turkey.

Green Bean Casserole

Another classic that adds green crunch to your creamy side dish.

Cranberry Sauce

The sweet-tart zing of cranberry balances out the richness perfectly.

Glazed Carrots

Soft, caramelized carrots bring a sweet note that complements cheesy potatoes.

Dinner Rolls

A fluffy roll plus a scoop of cheesy potatoes equals holiday heaven.

Apple Walnut Salad

Add freshness with apples, nuts, and a tangy vinaigrette.

Maple Brussels Sprouts

Slightly crispy and sweet, these sprouts bring contrast and color.

Honey Baked Ham

Not just for Christmas, ham goes incredibly well with cheesy potato goodness.

Want More Comforting Casserole Ideas?

If you’re loving these Thanksgiving Cheesy Potatoes, here are a few more comforting casseroles worth adding to your dinner rotation:

Try the Delicious Ooey Gooey Mac and Cheese if you’re craving more creamy, cheesy comfort.
Check out the No Peek Chicken Casserole for an easy one-dish dinner.
The French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole brings deep savory flavors that feel cozy and filling.
Add a veggie twist with the Creamed Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole.
Or go for a childhood favorite with the Mexican White Trash Casserole for some bold flavor.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest holiday board so you can come back to it every Thanksgiving and beyond.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add bacon? Maybe used cream of mushroom instead? I’m always excited to hear your variations and swaps.

Explore beautifully curated comfort food classics and sides on Janet Dishes on Pinterest and discover new recipes to warm your table year-round.

Conclusion

Thanksgiving Cheesy Potatoes are the kind of dish that turns guests into recipe hunters. They’re easy, nostalgic, and always a hit. Whether you’re making them for the first time or the fifteenth, they bring the same warmth and joy to your holiday table. So go ahead—make extra. They won’t last long.