Description
Potatoes Romanoff is a classic American side dish that’s a comforting blend of creamy potatoes, sharp cheddar cheese, and flavorful onions. This baked casserole has a rich texture and taste, making it a perfect companion for roasts or grilled meats.
Ingredients
- Russet Potatoes: These starchy potatoes are ideal for achieving the desired fluffy texture.
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Adds a bold, tangy flavor. You can also use medium cheddar or a blend, but sharp cheddar brings out the best taste.
- Sour Cream: Provides a creamy consistency and tang that balances the richness of the cheese.
- Yellow Onion: Finely chopped to add sweetness and a slight crunch.
- Garlic Powder: A touch of garlic enhances the flavor without overpowering the dish.
- Salt and Black Pepper: For seasoning, bringing out the best in the potatoes and cheese.
- Unsalted Butter: Adds moisture and richness to the dish, helping to create a golden, crispy top.
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Bake the Potatoes: Start by baking the russet potatoes. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), pierce the potatoes with a fork, and bake them directly on the oven rack for about 1 hour, until they are tender when pierced with a fork. Let the potatoes cool completely before proceeding. This step can be done a day in advance.
- Shred the Potatoes: Once the baked potatoes are cool, peel the skins off and shred the potatoes using a box grater. The large holes of the grater work best. Transfer the shredded potatoes into a large mixing bowl.
- Mix the Ingredients: Add the chopped onions, half of the shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, sour cream, salt, and pepper to the shredded potatoes. Gently fold the mixture together to combine all the ingredients, being careful not to mash the potatoes. You want to maintain their fluffy texture.
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray, then transfer the potato mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly.
- Top with Butter and Cheese: Dot the top of the potato mixture with small pieces of butter. This will add richness and help create a crispy crust. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the dish for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese on top is bubbly and golden brown.
- Serve: Let the Potatoes Romanoff cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives if desired.
Notes
- For an extra crispy top, you can broil the dish for the last 2-3 minutes of baking. Watch carefully to avoid burning the cheese.
- You can customize this recipe by adding cooked turkey bacon or sautéed vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers.