The Ultimate One Pot Cheesy Potatoes: Your New Favorite Side Dish
Get ready to discover your next obsession: The BEST One Pot Cheesy Potatoes! This isn’t just another potato recipe; it’s a culinary experience designed to bring warmth, comfort, and incredible flavor to your table with minimal effort. Whether you’re planning a festive holiday meal, hosting a special gathering, or simply craving an indulgent side for a busy weeknight dinner, these creamy, decadent, and unbelievably cheesy potatoes are an absolute game-changer. Imagine them nestled perfectly beside a juicy steak, tender roast chicken, or your holiday ham – pure perfection. And the best part? They’re incredibly easy to whip up, thanks to a clever shortcut: using pre-cubed refrigerated potatoes from your local market!
If you’re still on the hunt for that show-stopping side dish for your upcoming Easter feast, or any family gathering, look no further. These One Pot Cheesy Potatoes are truly exceptional, earning their title as “the best” not just for their rich flavor but also for their incredible convenience. We don’t use the word “best” lightly around here; it’s a claim we stand by, backed by every creamy, cheesy bite of this spectacular recipe. One spoonful, and you’ll understand exactly what we mean. Prepare to be hooked!
Why You’ll Absolutely Adore These One Pot Cheesy Potatoes
These aren’t your grandmother’s everyday mashed potatoes, nor are they a plain old potato gratin. While there are countless cheesy potato recipes out there, what sets these apart is their distinctive flavor profile and remarkable ease of preparation. This recipe elevates a simple side dish into an unforgettable culinary experience.
Unforgettable Flavor Profile
The magic truly lies in the unique combination of seasonings. We start with the bold, savory notes of Montreal Steak Seasoning, a blend typically featuring garlic, onion, black pepper, and various herbs. This creates a robust base that perfectly complements the earthiness of the potatoes. A generous dash of paprika adds a subtle warmth and beautiful color, while just a touch of cayenne pepper introduces a delightful, yet not overpowering, kick of heat. This trio ensures every bite is packed with complex and incredibly satisfying flavors, making these potatoes utterly addictive.
Effortless One-Pot Convenience
True to their name, these are “one pot” cheesy potatoes, meaning significantly less cleanup and a streamlined cooking process. This is particularly appealing for busy individuals or when you’re preparing multiple dishes for a special occasion. Everything, from sautéing the aromatics to simmering the creamy sauce and baking the potatoes, happens in a single oven-safe skillet or braiser. This also allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a deeper, more cohesive taste.
Time-Saving Smart Shortcut
We’ve made this recipe incredibly user-friendly by opting for already cubed refrigerated potatoes. This simple shortcut eliminates the tedious tasks of peeling, washing, and cubing raw potatoes, saving you valuable time and effort in the kitchen. Just open the package, and you’re ready to go! This makes preparing this delicious side dish accessible even on the busiest of weeknights, proving that gourmet flavors don’t have to come with a hefty time commitment.
Perfect for Any Occasion
While elegant enough for a holiday spread (think Easter, Thanksgiving, or Christmas dinner), these easy cheesy potatoes are also simple enough for a casual family dinner. They are a versatile addition to almost any main course, from a perfectly seared steak or roasted chicken to a hearty pork loin. Their comforting nature makes them a year-round favorite that will quickly become a staple in your recipe rotation.
Essential Ingredients for Your One Pot Cheesy Potatoes
Crafting these sensational cheesy potatoes requires a selection of fresh, high-quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need, along with a few notes for optimal results:
- Refrigerated Cubed Potatoes (2 lbs): The star of the show and our incredible time-saver! These pre-cut potatoes are typically found in the refrigerated section of your grocery store. While convenient, you can certainly peel and cube your own fresh potatoes if preferred (about 4-5 medium-sized potatoes).
- Butter (1/4 cup): Essential for sautéing our aromatics and forming the roux, adding a rich, foundational flavor. Unsalted butter allows you to control the overall sodium level.
- Yellow Onion (1 medium, about 1 1/2 cups chopped): Provides a sweet and savory base to the sauce when sautéed until tender.
- Garlic Cloves (3 cloves, minced): Fresh garlic is key for aromatic depth. Minced finely, it infuses the sauce with its pungent, warm flavor.
- All-Purpose Flour (1/4 cup): Used to create a roux with the butter, which acts as a thickening agent for our luxurious creamy sauce.
- Low-Sodium Chicken Broth (1 1/2 cups): The liquid base for our sauce. Using low-sodium allows you to adjust the seasoning precisely. Vegetable broth can be substituted for a vegetarian option.
- Heavy Cream (1 cup): The secret to the sauce’s silky smooth texture and rich, indulgent mouthfeel. Do not substitute with lighter creams or milk, as it won’t achieve the same consistency or richness.
- Montreal Steak Seasoning (2 tsp): This is a crucial flavor enhancer! Its bold blend of coarse salt, black pepper, garlic, onion, and spices brings a distinctive savory punch. Do not skip this for the authentic flavor.
- Kosher Salt (2 tsp) and Black Pepper (1/2 tsp): Basic seasonings to enhance all the other flavors. Adjust to your taste, especially considering the salt in the Montreal seasoning.
- Paprika (1/2 tsp): Adds a mild, sweet pepper flavor and a beautiful reddish hue to the sauce.
- Cayenne (1/8 tsp): Provides a subtle hint of heat that brightens the overall flavor profile. You can increase or decrease this amount based on your preference for spice.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese (2 cups, divided): We highly recommend Kraft Triple Cheddar Creamy Melt. This blend often includes Philadelphia cream cheese, which contributes to an extra-creamy, smooth, and utterly decadent sauce. Feel free to experiment with other good quality sharp cheddar or a cheddar blend for varying flavor nuances.
- Chopped Chives (1 Tbsp, for garnish): Fresh chives add a pop of color and a delicate oniony freshness, providing a perfect counterpoint to the rich potatoes.
The sauce for these cheesy potatoes is truly the heart of the dish. It begins with sautéing chopped onions and minced garlic directly in your chosen cast iron braiser or oven-proof deep skillet. This builds a foundational layer of aromatic flavor. Next, flour is whisked in to create a classic roux, which then thickens as the chicken broth and heavy cream are gradually added. Finally, the aromatic spices and part of the shredded cheese are stirred into this luscious, creamy base, ready to embrace the potatoes before baking.
Step-by-Step Guide to Crafting Cheesy Potato Perfection
Follow these detailed instructions to create the ultimate one-pot cheesy potatoes that will impress everyone at your table:
Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your oven is at the correct temperature when your potatoes are ready to bake.
Sauté Aromatics: In a 3 1/2-quart cast iron pan or an oven-proof deep skillet of similar size, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add the chopped yellow onions and cook for about 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become tender and translucent. Add the minced garlic and continue to cook for another minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning. The garlic should be fragrant but not browned.
Create the Roux and Creamy Sauce: Reduce the heat to medium. Sprinkle the all-purpose flour evenly over the onion and garlic mixture. Cook for 1 minute, stirring often, to cook out the raw flour taste. Gradually whisk in the low-sodium chicken broth and then the heavy cream. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens to a luscious, creamy sauce, which typically takes about 5-7 minutes. The sauce should be able to coat the back of a spoon.
Season and Melt Cheese: Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the Montreal steak seasoning, kosher salt, black pepper, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Add one cup of the shredded cheddar cheese (reserving the other cup for later) and stir until everything is well combined and the cheese has completely melted into the creamy sauce. The sauce will be incredibly rich and flavorful at this stage.
Combine with Potatoes and Bake (First Round): Gently fold in the two pounds of refrigerated cubed potatoes until they are thoroughly coated with the cheesy sauce. Ensure the potatoes are evenly distributed in the skillet. Bake the potatoes, uncovered, for 25 minutes. This allows the potatoes to begin softening and absorbing the rich flavors of the sauce.
Final Cheese Topping and Bake: After 25 minutes, remove the skillet from the oven. Evenly sprinkle the remaining one cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the potatoes. Return the skillet to the oven and continue to bake for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese is beautifully melted, bubbly, and slightly golden brown.
Rest and Serve: Once baked, remove the skillet from the oven and let the cheesy potatoes rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the sauce to set slightly and intensifies the flavors. Garnish with fresh chopped chives, if desired, for a final touch of freshness and color.
These incredibly satisfying cheesy potatoes are guaranteed to be a highlight of your meal, whether it’s an elaborate Easter dinner alongside your holiday ham or a simple weeknight family gathering. We truly hope you and your loved ones enjoy them as much as we do! Please don’t hesitate to leave a comment below if you try the recipe or have any questions. Happy cooking!
Expert Tips and Delightful Variations for Your Cheesy Potatoes
Achieving potato perfection is easy with these simple tips and ideas for customization:
Cook’s Notes for Enhanced Flavor and Texture
- The Power of Kraft Triple Cheddar Creamy Melt: As mentioned, this specific cheese blend is a secret weapon! The added Philadelphia cream cheese melts into an exceptionally smooth, rich, and truly decadent sauce that elevates the creaminess factor significantly. If you can find it, it’s highly recommended for an unparalleled texture. If not, a good quality sharp cheddar will still yield delicious results.
- Don’t Skip the Montreal Steak Seasoning: This seasoning blend is not just for steak! It’s the key ingredient that provides a deep, savory, and robust flavor foundation for these potatoes, setting them apart from other cheesy potato dishes. Its unique mix of spices complements the creaminess perfectly.
- Cayenne for a Gentle Kick: The 1/8 teaspoon of cayenne pepper provides a very subtle warmth rather than an intense spice. It brightens the overall flavor without overwhelming it. If you prefer more heat, feel free to increase the amount to 1/4 or even 1/2 teaspoon. If you’re sensitive to spice, you can omit it entirely.
Creative Variations to Try
- Herbaceous Additions: For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding fresh or dried herbs like a pinch of dried thyme or rosemary (about 1/2 teaspoon) along with the other spices. Fresh herbs like parsley can also be stirred in at the end with the chives.
- Meat Lovers’ Twist: Transform this side into a more substantial dish by stirring in crispy crumbled bacon, diced ham, or even cooked ground sausage with the potatoes before baking.
- Smoky Undertones: Replace a portion of the cheddar cheese with smoked gouda or Monterey Jack cheese for a different, smoky flavor profile. A pinch of smoked paprika can also enhance this.
- Green Chile Kick: For a Southwestern flair, stir in a small can of diced green chiles (drained) with the potatoes.
Storage and Reheating Advice
- Storing Leftovers: Leftover cheesy potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Reheating: For best results, reheat individual portions in the microwave until warmed through. For larger quantities, place them in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and bake at 300°F (150°C) until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. You might want to add a splash of milk or broth before reheating to restore some creaminess. Freezing is generally not recommended as potatoes can become mealy and the creamy sauce may separate upon thawing.
Perfect Pairings and Serving Suggestions
These Cheesy Potatoes are incredibly versatile and can elevate any meal. Here are some ideas for how to serve them:
- Classic Roast: They are an ideal companion for roasted chicken, succulent pork loin, or a traditional beef roast.
- Steakhouse Favorite: Pair them with a perfectly grilled steak for an indulgent, restaurant-quality meal at home.
- Holiday Feasts: A definite showstopper alongside holiday hams, turkeys, or prime rib, especially for Easter, Thanksgiving, or Christmas.
- Comfort Food Combo: Serve with meatloaf or hearty stews for the ultimate comforting dinner.
- Breakfast/Brunch: Believe it or not, they can be a fantastic addition to a hearty breakfast or brunch spread, especially alongside eggs and sausages.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cheesy Potatoes
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of refrigerated cubed ones?
Absolutely! If you prefer to use fresh potatoes, you will need approximately 2 pounds of russet or Yukon Gold potatoes. Peel them and cut them into 1/2-inch to 3/4-inch cubes. You may need to boil them for about 5-7 minutes before adding them to the sauce to ensure they cook through evenly in the oven, or simply account for a slightly longer baking time.
Can I make these cheesy potatoes ahead of time?
You can prepare the sauce and combine it with the potatoes a day in advance. Store the mixture in an oven-safe dish, covered, in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking as directed, possibly adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the initial baking time.
What kind of skillet or pan is best for this recipe?
A 3 1/2-quart cast iron pan or any other oven-proof deep skillet of similar size is ideal. Cast iron holds heat beautifully and goes seamlessly from stovetop to oven, which is perfect for this one-pot method. Ensure your chosen pan is deep enough to hold all the ingredients.
Is this recipe spicy?
The 1/8 teaspoon of cayenne pepper provides a very mild and subtle warmth, enhancing the flavor without making the dish overtly spicy. If you are sensitive to heat, you can reduce the amount or omit it entirely. For those who enjoy more spice, feel free to increase the cayenne to 1/4 or even 1/2 teaspoon.
Can I freeze leftover cheesy potatoes?
While technically possible, freezing is not recommended for this dish. Potatoes can become grainy or mealy once frozen and thawed, and creamy sauces tend to separate, altering the texture and quality of the dish. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated for a few days.
Can I use different types of cheese?
Yes, you can experiment with other cheeses! Good quality sharp cheddar is always a winner. Other excellent choices include Gruyere for a nutty flavor, Monterey Jack for extra meltiness, or even a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack. Avoid overly oily cheeses that might separate during baking.
More Delicious Side Dish Recipes to Enjoy
Looking for more fantastic sides to complement your meals? Try these:
Green Beans with Mushrooms Onions and Mornay Sauce
Marsala Mushrooms
Sweet Potato Stacks with Marshmallow Creme
The BEST One Pot Cheesy Potatoes
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Ingredients
- 2 lbs. refrigerated cubed potatoes
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped, about 1 1/2 cups
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tsp. Montreal steak seasoning
- 2 tsp. Kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp. black pepper
- 1/2 tsp. paprika
- 1/8 tsp. cayenne
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided (I used Kraft Triple Cheddar Creamy Melt)
- 1 Tbsp. chives, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.
- Melt butter in a 3 1/2-qt. cast iron pan or an oven-proof deep skillet of similar size over medium-high heat. Add onions and cook for about 4 minutes until tender, stirring occasionally. Add garlic and continue to cook for one minute. Reduce the heat to medium and sprinkle the flour over the onion mixture and cook for 1 minute, stirring often. Whisk in the broth and heavy cream and continue to cook, stirring often, until mixture is thickened, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the heat and add the Montreal steak seasoning, salt, pepper, paprika, cayenne and one cup of the cheese and stir until well combined and the cheese is melted.
Fold in the cubed potatoes until well combined. Bake for 25 minutes, uncovered and then sprinkle the potatoes with the remaining one cup of shredded cheese and continue to bake for 10 minutes. Remove from the oven and let potatoes rest for about 10 minutes before serving. Top with chopped chives, if desired.
Notes
Don’t skip adding the Montreal Seasoning. It gives this dish such added flavor. And the added cayenne gives it just a touch of heat.