Potatoes Romanoff
If you’re craving something rich, cheesy, and incredibly comforting, Potatoes Romanoff is about to become your new favorite side dish. This classic steakhouse-inspired casserole is made with tender shredded baked potatoes, sour cream, sharp cheddar, and a hint of onion baked to golden perfection. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, yet surprisingly simple to make. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be putting it on the menu for every special dinner or cozy night in. It’s elegance meets comfort and it’s downright irresistible.
Why You’ll Love Potatoes Romanoff
This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:
Versatile: Perfect alongside steak, roast chicken, or holiday mains.
Budget-Friendly: Made with basic ingredients that deliver rich, decadent results.
Quick and Easy: Minimal prep with major payoff just shred, mix, and bake.
Customizable: Add garlic, bacon, or herbs to make it your own.
Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.
Ingredients in Potatoes Romanoff
Every ingredient in this dish brings richness and texture that turns simple potatoes into something truly special:
Russet Potatoes: Baked, cooled, and shredded fluffy inside with a light bite.
Sour Cream: Adds creaminess and that tangy depth we all love.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: The bolder, the better it adds richness and gooey, golden goodness.
Shallots or Onions: Grated or finely minced for a mild, sweet undertone.
Butter: Just a bit for richness and to help bring everything together.
Salt and Pepper: Basic seasoning that lifts the whole dish.
Garlic (optional): Adds warmth and flavor if you want a savory boost.
Chives or Parsley (optional): For a pop of green and a hint of freshness.

Instructions
Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:
Preheat Your Equipment: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix shredded baked potatoes with sour cream, shredded cheese, shallots, melted butter, salt, and pepper. Add garlic if using.
Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading evenly.
Assemble the Dish: Sprinkle additional cheese on top for an extra gooey, golden crust.
Cook to Perfection: Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown around the edges.
Finishing Touches: Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped chives or parsley if desired.
Serve and Enjoy: Serve warm as the ultimate side dish to complement any main course.
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 8
Calories per serving: 310
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
How to Serve Potatoes Romanoff
This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:
Serve alongside steak for a classic pairing
Great with grilled or roasted chicken and pork chops
Pair with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables
Add to a holiday table as a rich, crowd-pleasing side
Top with bacon bits or fresh herbs for a next-level twist
Additional Tips
Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:
Bake and chill the potatoes a day ahead for best texture
Don’t overmix the shredded potatoes you want to keep their fluffiness
Use high-quality sharp cheddar for bold flavor
Add a pinch of cayenne or paprika for a little kick
Make it ahead and reheat gently in the oven before serving
FAQ’s
1 Can I use frozen hash browns instead of fresh potatoes?
Yes, just make sure they’re thawed and well-drained before mixing in.
2 Do I have to bake the potatoes first?
Yes, baking gives them that fluffy interior and prevents excess moisture.
3 Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?
Absolutely it works well and adds a similar tang with more protein.
4 What type of cheese works best?
Sharp cheddar is classic, but Gruyère or Monterey Jack are also delicious.
5 Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble it ahead and refrigerate, then bake when ready to serve.
6 Can I freeze Potatoes Romanoff?
Yes, freeze before or after baking. Thaw overnight and reheat thoroughly.
7 How do I make it more indulgent?
Add crispy bacon, sautéed mushrooms, or even a layer of cream cheese.
8 What’s the best way to shred the potatoes?
Use a box grater once they’re fully cooled they should be firm and easy to handle.
9 Can I add herbs or spices?
Yes! Try thyme, rosemary, garlic powder, or a touch of nutmeg for depth.
10 Is this gluten-free?
Yes, as long as all ingredients (especially cheese and sour cream) are certified gluten-free.
Conclusion
Potatoes Romanoff is comfort food with just the right touch of elegance. Whether you’re making it for a dinner party, holiday meal, or just to treat yourself on a cozy evening, this cheesy, creamy casserole hits all the right notes. It’s simple, satisfying, and endlessly customizable. Go ahead whip up a batch and savor every melty, golden, delicious forkful!
Print
Potatoes Romanoff
- Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus chilling time)
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes (+ chilling time)
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Potatoes Romanoff is a rich and creamy potato casserole made with shredded baked potatoes, sour cream, cheese, and shallots. Originating as a classic steakhouse side dish, it’s simple to prepare and incredibly comforting—perfect for holidays, dinner parties, or a cozy family meal.
Ingredients
- 3 large russet potatoes (about 2 lbs)
- 1½ cups sour cream
- 1½ cups shredded sharp white cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped shallots (or red onion)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (for greasing dish)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a medium baking dish with butter.
- Bake the potatoes with skins on at 400°F (200°C) for about 1 hour or until tender. Let cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight (this helps with shredding).
- Peel the cold potatoes and coarsely shred them using a box grater.
- In a large bowl, gently mix shredded potatoes with sour cream, cheese, shallots, salt, pepper, and garlic powder until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Spoon mixture into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top.
- Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, or until hot and bubbly with a golden top.
- Let rest 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Make this dish up to 1 day in advance and bake when ready to serve.
- Use Yukon Gold potatoes for a slightly creamier texture.
- Add a pinch of nutmeg or cayenne for a flavor twist.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of casserole
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
Keywords: potatoes romanoff, creamy potato casserole, cheesy baked potatoes, steakhouse side, holiday side dish