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–+ servings
Cowboy Potato Casserole
Cowboy Potato Casserole is a comforting, hearty baked dish that blends creamy, cheesy potatoes with savory onions and a crispy chip topping. Beloved for its rich flavors and satisfying texture, this casserole is ideal for potlucks, family dinners, or casual gatherings. Its roots lie in classic American casseroles that use pantry staples and frozen ingredients for simplicity and convenience. The crushed chips on top add a nostalgic crunch that many remember from childhood meals and church suppers alike.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 8
Calories 307 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb hash brown potatoes (frozen, country-style )
  • 10½ oz cream of celery soup (1 can)
  • 2 cups cheddar cheese (shredded )
  • 1 lb sour cream
  • 1 onion (medium, chopped)
  • 1 stick butter
  • crushed potato chips (for topping)

Instructions
 

Step 1: Sauté the Onions

  • Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
  • Add chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

  • Add the cream of celery soup, sour cream, and shredded cheddar cheese to the saucepan.
  • Stir until fully combined and cheese is partially melted.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

  • Spread frozen potatoes evenly in a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
  • Pour the hot sauce mixture over the potatoes and spread evenly.

Step 4: Bake and Finish

  • Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes.
  • Remove from oven, top with crushed potato chips, and bake for an additional 10 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Tips

  • Use hash browns instead of country-style potatoes for a softer texture
  • Add cooked bacon bits for a smoky variation
  • Substitute cream of mushroom soup if cream of celery is unavailable
  • Use sour cream with chives or onion for extra flavor
  • Try crushed corn chips or butter crackers as the topping
  • Add a pinch of paprika or garlic powder to the sauce
  • Make ahead and refrigerate before baking for easy entertaining
  • Use sharp cheddar for a stronger cheese flavor

Nutrition

Calories: 307kcalCarbohydrates: 17gProtein: 10gFat: 23gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 66mgSodium: 408mgPotassium: 311mgFiber: 1gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 742IUVitamin C: 6mgCalcium: 278mgIron: 1mg
Keyword cheesy potatoes, comfort food, family dinner, potluck favorite, retro recipe, vintage casserole
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