Crack potatoes are a creamy, cheesy, and irresistibly delicious comfort food that’s perfect for any occasion. Made with simple ingredients and packed with flavor, this crowd-pleasing dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples for a quick and easy recipe.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for potlucks, family dinners, or game-day gatherings.
- Customizable: Add your favorite mix-ins for endless variations.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Easy to prepare in advance for stress-free entertaining.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Frozen hash browns (shredded or cubed)
- Sour cream
- Cream cheese, softened
- Cheddar cheese, shredded
- Ranch dressing mix
- Cooked bacon, crumbled
- Green onions, sliced (optional)
Directions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine sour cream, cream cheese, ranch dressing mix, shredded cheddar cheese, and most of the crumbled bacon. Stir until well blended.
- Add the Potatoes: Fold in the frozen hash browns, mixing until the potatoes are evenly coated.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Spread the potato mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- Bake: Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with the remaining bacon and green onions before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 8-10
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy twist.
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the bacon and add sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables.
- Different Cheeses: Try Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or pepper jack for unique flavors.
- Loaded Potatoes: Top with extra sour cream, chives, or a drizzle of hot sauce.
- Slow Cooker Method: Combine ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 4-5 hours.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze the baked dish or unbaked mixture in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating or baking.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes.
FAQs
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?
Yes, peel and shred or dice fresh potatoes, but cook them slightly before mixing for the best texture.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the dish up to 24 hours in advance, cover, and refrigerate until ready to bake.
How do I make this dish lighter?
Use low-fat sour cream, reduced-fat cream cheese, and turkey bacon to reduce calories.
Can I use pre-cooked bacon bits?
Yes, pre-cooked bacon bits work as a time-saving option.
What can I serve with crack potatoes?
Pair with grilled chicken, steak, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
How do I prevent the top from over-browning?
Cover with foil during baking if the top is browning too quickly.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, use a larger baking dish or two smaller dishes and adjust the baking time as needed.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Yes, mix in steamed broccoli, roasted peppers, or corn for added flavor and nutrition.
Are crack potatoes gluten-free?
Yes, ensure all ingredients, including the ranch dressing mix, are labeled gluten-free.
Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?
Yes, Greek yogurt is a great substitute that adds tanginess and reduces fat.
Conclusion
Crack potatoes are the ultimate comfort food, combining creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors into one unforgettable dish. Perfect for any gathering or family dinner, they’re easy to make and endlessly customizable. Whip up a batch of these irresistible potatoes today and watch them disappear in no time!
Print
Crack Potatoes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Crack Potatoes are a creamy, cheesy, and bacon-packed side dish that’s so addictive you’ll keep coming back for more! This crowd-pleasing recipe is perfect for potlucks, holidays, or as a comforting family meal addition.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs frozen hash browns (thawed) or 5 cups peeled and shredded potatoes
- 1 (16 oz) container sour cream
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon (reserve some for topping)
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions or parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Prepare the Mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, cream of chicken soup, softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and well combined.
- Add the Potatoes:
- Stir the hash browns or shredded potatoes into the mixture until fully coated. Fold in the cooked and crumbled bacon, reserving some for garnish.
- Assemble and Bake:
- Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown on top.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Remove from the oven and sprinkle with the reserved bacon and chopped green onions or parsley. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- For extra crunch, top with crushed Ritz crackers or French-fried onions during the last 10 minutes of baking.
- This dish can be made ahead—assemble it, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake just before serving.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.