Description

This Potato Casserole with Ritz Cracker Topping is the ultimate comfort food combining creamy, tender mashed potatoes with a crispy, buttery Ritz cracker crust. Easy to prepare with simple pantry staples, it can serve as a versatile side or a hearty main dish. Perfect for family gatherings or weeknight dinners, this warm and inviting casserole balances melt-in-your-mouth softness with a golden, crunchy topping.

Ingredients

Scale

Potato Base

3 pounds Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and chopped
4 tablespoons butter, softened
1 cup sour cream
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper

Ritz Cracker Topping

2 cups Ritz crackers, finely crushed
4 tablespoons butter, melted

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Instructions

Prepare the Potatoes: Peel and boil the potatoes in salted water until fork-tender, about 15 to 20 minutes. Drain thoroughly and mash until smooth, keeping some small lumps if desired.
Mix in Creamy Ingredients: To the mashed potatoes, add softened butter, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well until all ingredients are fully combined into a creamy, flavorful mixture.
Transfer to Baking Dish: Evenly spread the potato mixture into a greased casserole dish, smoothing the surface for an even bake and topping.
Prepare the Ritz Cracker Topping: Crush the Ritz crackers finely and mix with melted butter to ensure a golden, crispy crust during baking.
Add the Topping and Bake: Sprinkle the buttered cracker mixture evenly over the potato casserole. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25 to 30 minutes, until the topping is golden brown and crisp and the casserole is heated through.

Notes

Use warm, melted butter to evenly coat Ritz crackers for a perfectly browned topping.
Do not overmix the potatoes to avoid a gluey texture; gentle stirring keeps them fluffy.
Crush Ritz crackers just before baking for the best crunchy texture.
Cover casserole with foil for the first 15 minutes of baking to retain moisture, then uncover to crisp the topping.
Try blending cheeses or adding extras like vegetables, bacon, or spices for customized flavors.

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Side Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 320
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 480mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 8g
Cholesterol: 50mg