Cheesy Potato Casserole From Ore-Ida: Recipe, Variations, and Customer Reviews
Ore-Ida’s Cheesy Potato Casserole provides a savory and creamy flavor that makes it a standout side dish. This recipe seamlessly combines Ore-Ida’s high-quality potatoes with rich, melting cheese, resulting in a dish that pleases both kids and adults.
Ingredients
The casserole includes simple, accessible ingredients for easy preparation:
- Ore-Ida Potatoes: Known for their quality and texture, the potatoes are the base of the dish.
- Shredded Cheese: A mix of cheddar or a cheese blend adds the rich, cheesy flavor.
- Sour Cream: Introduces a tangy taste and creamy texture.
- Condensed Soup: Either cream of chicken or mushroom soup enhances the flavor profile.
- Butter: Adds richness and helps achieve a golden-brown top.
- Onion: Freshly chopped onions provide an added layer of flavor.
- Cornflakes: Optional but add a crunchy topping for extra texture.
Preparation Process
Preparing the Cheesy Potato Casserole involves straightforward steps:
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F to ensure even cooking.
- Mix Ingredients: Combine shredded cheese, sour cream, condensed soup, melted butter, and chopped onion in a large bowl. Stir in Ore-Ida potatoes.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Spread the mixture evenly in a greased baking dish.
- Add Topping: If desired, sprinkle crushed Cornflakes over the top.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the top is golden and the sides are bubbling.
Nutritional Benefits
The Cheesy Potato Casserole offers nutritional benefits:
- Vitamin C: Potatoes are rich in Vitamin C, boosting your immune system.
- Protein: Cheese provides a good source of protein.
- Calcium: The dairy components contribute to daily calcium intake.
This section enhances your understanding of Ore-Ida’s Cheesy Potato Casserole, detailing its core components and preparation steps, ensuring you can create a delectable side dish with ease.
Key Ingredients and Nutritional Information
Ingredients Breakdown
Ore-Ida’s Cheesy Potato Casserole combines several key ingredients to create a rich, flavorful dish. Here, you’ll find a detailed breakdown of what each component brings to the table:
- Ore-Ida Potatoes: High-quality, frozen potatoes that ensure a consistent texture and flavor in every bite.
- Shredded Cheese: Typically a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack, providing a creamy, tangy taste.
- Sour Cream: Adds creaminess and a slight tang, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
- Condensed Cream of Chicken Soup: Offers a savory base and thickens the casserole.
- Butter: Contributes to a rich, buttery taste and smooth texture.
- Diced Onion: Adds a subtle sweetness and a bit of crunch.
- Optional Cornflakes: Can be used as a topping for added texture and a slight crunch.
Nutritional Highlights
Ore-Ida’s Cheesy Potato Casserole is not only delicious but also offers several nutritional benefits:
- Calories: Approximately 250 per serving, depending on portion size and additional toppings.
- Vitamin C: Potatoes are a good source, contributing to immune health and skin care.
- Protein: Shredded cheese and sour cream provide a moderate protein boost, essential for muscle repair and growth.
- Calcium: The dairy components contribute to daily calcium intake, supporting bone health.
- Fat: Contains fats from cheese, butter, and sour cream, which are integral for energy.
- Carbohydrates: Primarily from potatoes, offering sustained energy.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~250 |
| Vitamin C | ~15% DV |
| Protein | 7g |
| Calcium | 20% DV |
| Total Fat | 14g |
| Carbohydrates | 20g |
Each serving of the casserole offers a balanced mix of essential nutrients, making it both a decadent and nutritious choice for various meals.
Cooking Instructions
Preparation Steps
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine 32 oz of Ore-Ida Potatoes, 2 cups of shredded cheese, 1 cup of sour cream, and 1 can (10.5 oz) of condensed cream of chicken soup. Add 1/2 cup of melted butter and 1/2 cup of diced onion. Mix until all ingredients are well blended.
Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it evenly, ensuring a uniform layer across the dish. If you prefer a crunchy topping, sprinkle 1 cup of crushed cornflakes over the mixture before baking.
Baking Tips
Bake the casserole at 350°F for 45 to 50 minutes. Ensure the top is golden brown, and the edges are bubbling before removing it from the oven. To achieve a perfectly browned top, broil for an additional 2 to 3 minutes, but watch closely to prevent burning.
Allow the casserole to cool for at least 10 minutes before serving. This step helps the dish to set, making it easier to cut and serve. For a balanced meal, pair your casserole with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
Best Side Dishes
Enhance your Cheesy Potato Casserole from Ore-Ida by pairing it with complementary side dishes. For a balanced meal, consider adding:
- Fresh Salad: Mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette.
- Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, carrots, green beans, and cauliflower provide essential nutrients.
- Grilled Proteins: Chicken, steak, or fish offer additional protein and flavors.
- Bread Rolls: Soft dinner rolls or garlic bread add a satisfying texture.
Creative Serving Ideas
Explore unique ways to serve your Cheesy Potato Casserole from Ore-Ida. Consider these ideas to elevate your meal:
- Brunch Option: Serve the casserole with scrambled eggs and bacon, creating a hearty brunch.
- Taco Night: Use the casserole as a filling or side for tacos, incorporating it with seasoned ground beef and toppings.
- Potluck Favorite: Bring the casserole to a potluck, where it’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
- Baked Potato Bar: Offer the casserole as a topping option for a baked potato bar, allowing guests to customize their plates.
These serving suggestions will make your meal more appealing and versatile, ideal for various occasions and preferences.
Variations of the Recipe
Alternative Ingredients
Substitute some ingredients, reducing calories or tailoring flavors. For creamier texture, use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. Chicken or vegetable broth can replace condensed soup. Add vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or broccoli to increase nutritional value. Swap regular cheddar cheese for pepper jack or gouda for a unique twist. Use panko or breadcrumb topping if you prefer a different crunch from cornflakes.
Dietary Adaptations
Modify the casserole to meet dietary requirements. For a gluten-free version, choose gluten-free soup and cornflakes. Veganize the dish by using dairy-free cheese, coconut milk, vegan butter, and cream of mushroom soup instead of traditional ingredients. For a lower-fat version, select reduced-fat cheese, light sour cream, and trimming down butter quantities. Keto-friendly adjustments include using full-fat dairy products and eliminating high-carb toppings.
Customer Reviews and Feedback
Positive Feedback
Customers often praise Ore-Ida’s Cheesy Potato Casserole for its rich, creamy texture and savory flavor. Many note its convenience, as the preparation is straightforward and quick. Some customers highlight its ability to please large crowds, making it a favorite for family gatherings and potlucks. Specific comments mention the dish’s authentic cheese taste and the perfect blending of spices.
According to customer reviews on various retail websites, many value the dish’s quality and consistency. Some customers appreciate the flexibility of adding their own ingredients to elevate the casserole further. For instance, adding bacon bits, extra cheese, or onions can enhance the dish while maintaining its base quality.
Areas of Improvement
While many reviews are positive, some customers suggest areas for improvement. A few mention the desire for a reduced-sodium option, as the dish can be salty for some palates. Others express a preference for a gluten-free version, catering to those with dietary restrictions.
Additionally, some feedback points to portion sizes, suggesting a family-size package to better cater to larger households. A small segment of reviews also discusses the texture, with a few preferring a crisper finish. Adding breadcrumb toppings or adjusting cooking times might address this feedback.
Customer reviews help highlight both strengths and potential enhancements, providing valuable insights for future improvements.
Conclusion
Ore-Ida’s Cheesy Potato Casserole stands out as a versatile and beloved dish. Its rich, creamy texture and savory flavor make it a hit at family gatherings and potlucks. The ability to customize it with different ingredients ensures it can meet various dietary needs and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a gluten-free option, a lower-fat version, or a keto-friendly twist, this casserole can be adapted to suit your needs.
Customer feedback underscores its convenience and consistent quality while also highlighting areas for potential enhancements. By considering suggestions like reduced-sodium versions, larger portion sizes, and texture adjustments, you can further elevate this already popular dish. So, next time you’re planning a meal, consider Ore-Ida’s Cheesy Potato Casserole for a delicious and adaptable option that everyone will love.
