Name: Potatoes Romanoff
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 large russet potatoes, baked and cooled overnight in the fridge; 3 tbsp salted butter; 1/4 cup diced shallot; 1 clove garlic, minced; 2 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp ground black pepper; 1 1/2 cups sour cream; 2 1/2 cups freshly shredded sharp white cheddar cheese, divided; 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Oh, friend, get ready to fall in love with Potatoes Romanoff—a dish so creamy, cheesy, and comforting, it’s like a warm hug on a plate! Imagine tender potatoes enveloped in a velvety sour cream and cheddar sauce, baked to golden perfection with a crispy top that crackles with every bite. This is the side dish that steals the show, whether you’re serving it at a cozy family dinner or wowing guests at a holiday feast. Trust me, this one’s a game-changer, and you’re going to want to make it again and again. Let’s dive into the deliciousness!

Why You’ll Love Potatoes Romanoff

This isn’t just a potato dish; it’s a moment of pure indulgence. Picture scooping out a spoonful of this creamy, cheesy goodness while your kitchen fills with an irresistible aroma. Here’s why Potatoes Romanoff is about to become your new favorite:

Versatile: Perfect for weeknight dinners, holiday spreads, or potlucks. It pairs beautifully with everything from roast chicken to grilled veggies.
Budget-Friendly: Made with simple, everyday ingredients like potatoes and sour cream, proving you don’t need fancy stuff to create something extraordinary.
Quick and Easy: Straightforward steps that even kitchen newbies can nail. It’s low-stress cooking with high-impact results.
Customizable: Add bacon bits, chives, or a dash of paprika to make it your own. You can dial up the flavor or keep it classic.
Crowd-Pleasing: Kids and adults alike devour this dish. It’s comfort food that brings everyone back for seconds (and thirds!).

Ingredients

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Here’s the lineup of simple ingredients that transform into something downright magical:

Russet Potatoes

The hearty backbone of the dish. Russets are starchy and fluffy, soaking up all that creamy goodness while holding their shape.

Sour Cream

This brings the signature tangy, velvety texture. It’s what makes every bite rich and luscious, like a decadent potato cloud.

Cheddar Cheese

Sharp and melty, cheddar adds a bold, savory kick. Shred it yourself for the best melt and flavor—it’s worth the extra minute!

Green Onions

These add a fresh, slightly peppery bite that cuts through the richness. They’re like a little burst of brightness in every forkful.

Butter

A touch of butter in the mix and on top ensures a golden, crispy finish. It’s the secret to that irresistible baked texture.

Salt and Pepper

The flavor boosters! A good pinch of each brings all the ingredients together for a perfectly balanced dish.

Instructions

Let’s whip up this creamy masterpiece—your kitchen’s about to smell amazing:

Boil the Potatoes

Place whole, unpeeled potatoes in a large pot of salted water. Boil until fork-tender, about 20–25 minutes. Drain and let cool slightly.

Prepare the Potatoes

Peel the cooled potatoes (or leave some skin for rustic texture). Grate them into a large bowl using the large holes of a box grater.

Combine Ingredients

Gently fold in sour cream, half the cheddar cheese, green onions, melted butter, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined—don’t overwork it, or the potatoes will get gummy.

Prepare Your Baking Dish

Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish with butter. This prevents sticking and adds a little extra flavor to the edges.

Assemble the Dish

Spread the potato mixture evenly in the prepared dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top for that golden, bubbly crust.

Bake to Perfection

Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes, until the top is golden and the edges are bubbly. The smell will have everyone hovering around the oven!

Finishing Touches

Let the dish cool for 5 minutes to set. This makes it easier to serve and lets the flavors meld.

Serve and Enjoy

Scoop out generous portions and serve warm. Pair with your favorite main or let it shine as the star of the meal.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 6
Calories per serving: 280

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

How to Serve Potatoes Romanoff

This dish is a total crowd-pleaser, and a few thoughtful pairings can make it even more unforgettable. Here’s how to serve it up right:

Fresh Salads: A crisp Caesar or mixed green salad with a zesty vinaigrette balances the dish’s richness.
Crusty Bread: Serve with a warm baguette to mop up any creamy bits left on the plate. Pure heaven!
Creamy Accompaniments: A dollop of extra sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh chives on top adds a fancy touch.
Vegetable Sides: Roasted asparagus or sautéed green beans add color and crunch to the meal.
As a Standalone: This dish is hearty enough to enjoy solo for a cozy lunch. Garnish with a pinch of paprika for flair.

Presentation tip: Serve in a rustic ceramic dish and sprinkle with chopped green onions for a pop of color.

Additional Tips

Here’s how to make your Potatoes Romanoff experience even better:

Prep Ahead: Boil and grate the potatoes the night before. Store in the fridge to save time on cooking day.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika for a subtle kick, or toss in crumbled bacon for extra decadence.
Dietary Adjustments: Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a lighter version, or swap cheddar for a dairy-free cheese.
Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to keep the top crispy.
Double the Batch: Make a double recipe in a 9×13-inch dish for big gatherings. It freezes well for up to 2 months.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I substitute russet potatoes with another type?
A1: Yup! Yukon Golds work great for a creamier texture, though they’re less fluffy. Avoid waxy potatoes like red ones—they don’t grate as well.

Q2: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A2: Totally! Assemble it up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving, adding 5–10 extra minutes.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 15 minutes for best results.

Q4: Can I freeze this dish?
A4: Yes! Freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.

Q5: What’s the best way to reheat this dish?
A5: Reheat in a 350°F oven for 15–20 minutes for a crispy top, or microwave in 30-second bursts until warm.

Q6: Can I double the recipe?
A6: Absolutely! Use a 9×13-inch dish and increase the baking time by 5–10 minutes. Perfect for feeding a crowd.

Q7: Can I use low-fat sour cream?
A7: Sure can! It’ll be slightly less rich but still delicious. Full-fat gives the creamiest texture, though.

Q8: What if I don’t have green onions?
A8: Swap them for finely chopped chives, shallots, or even a pinch of onion powder for a similar flavor.

Q9: Can I add other cheeses?
A9: Go for it! Mix in some Parmesan for nuttiness or mozzarella for extra stretch. Just keep the total cheese amount the same.

Q10: How do I know when it’s done?
A10: The top should be golden and bubbly, and a knife inserted in the center should come out hot. If it’s not browning, broil for 1–2 minutes.

Conclusion

Potatoes Romanoff is the ultimate comfort food—a creamy, cheesy, potato-packed dish that feels like a celebration in every bite. Whether you’re serving it at a festive gathering or treating yourself to a cozy night in, this recipe delivers big on flavor and heart. So grab those potatoes, crank up the oven, and get ready to make something that’ll have everyone asking for the recipe. One scoop, and you’ll see why this dish is pure magic!