These Southern cheesy baked potatoes are what I like to call pure cozy-on-a-plate 🧀🥔 They remind me of those weekends at grandma’s—when the kitchen smelled like butter, and someone was always asking for seconds. I still whip them up on lazy Sundays, usually when I want something simple, salty, and extra cheesy. They’ve got that crispy-on-the-edge, soft-in-the-middle vibe that just hits the spot. Plus, they go with pretty much anything. Steak? Yes. Eggs? Heck yes. Midnight snack straight outta the fridge? Don’t judge me 😅 This cheesey potatoes easy recipe nails that homemade flavor without requiring a culinary degree. It checks the boxes for easy recipes for dinner, quick and easy recipes, and even butter swim biscuits easy recipes-style cravings. If you’re looking for comfort food easy recipes or just want to keep it low-fuss, this is your golden ticket.

Table of Contents
- 1) Key Takeaways
- 2) Easy Southern Cheesy Baked Potatoes Recipe
- 3) Ingredients for Southern Cheesy Baked Potatoes
- 4) How to Make Southern Cheesy Baked Potatoes
- 5) Tips for Making Southern Cheesy Baked Potatoes
- 6) Making Southern Cheesy Baked Potatoes Ahead of Time
- 7) Storing Leftover Southern Cheesy Baked Potatoes
- 8) Try these side dish recipes next!
- 9) Southern Cheesy Baked Potatoes Recipe
- 10) Nutrition
1) Key Takeaways
- This dish is buttery, creamy, and perfect for busy weeknights 🧈
- You can prep it ahead for parties or big family dinners 🥳
- Perfect for potlucks, backyard BBQs, or those days when only cheese will do 🧀
- Pairs well with everything from grilled meats to scrambled eggs 🍳
2) Easy Southern Cheesy Baked Potatoes Recipe
I don’t know about you, but when I think “comfort food,” I think creamy, cheesy potatoes—preferably still bubbling when they hit the table. This dish isn’t trying to be complicated. It’s not here for awards. It just wants to be loved.
This cheesey potatoes easy recipe has saved me on more than one busy night. We’re talking about simple steps, basic pantry ingredients, and results that make your house smell like a hug. And who doesn’t need more hugs from the oven?
If you’re into easy recipes for dinner, especially ones that lean heavy on cheese and good vibes, this one’s calling your name. It’s also a close cousin to butter swim biscuits easy recipes, which means we’re playing in the same delicious ballpark.

3) Ingredients for Southern Cheesy Baked Potatoes
6 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced: These are the real MVPs. Russets give you that fluffy inside and crispy outside if you do it right. And don’t skip the peeling unless you’re in a rustic mood.
1 small onion, finely chopped: This adds that hint of sweetness once it bakes. It’s subtle but makes a difference. You won’t regret it.
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping): This is where the magic happens. The cheesier, the better. No judgment if you go heavy-handed here.
1/2 cup sour cream: Creamy, tangy, and rich. It smooths everything out and brings the dish together like a warm blanket.
1/4 cup whole milk: Just enough to thin things out a bit so everything melts together without drying out.
4 tablespoons butter, melted: Let’s not pretend this isn’t the heart of the dish. It gives that golden edge and flavor that makes you close your eyes with the first bite.
Salt and black pepper to taste: Start light and adjust as you go. A little goes a long way once it’s all baked up and delicious.
Paprika (optional, for topping): Adds color and a whisper of smoky flavor if you’re feeling it. Just a light sprinkle is all you need.
Chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish): Totally not required, but makes the dish look fancy if you’re serving guests or feeling like a boss in your own kitchen.

4) How to Make Southern Cheesy Baked Potatoes
Step 1. Preheat your oven to 375°F. This is your moment to shine. Get everything ready while it warms up.
Step 2. Boil the diced potatoes in salted water for about 10 minutes. Don’t let them go too soft. Think tender, not mushy. You still want them to hold their own in the bake.
Step 3. Drain them well and toss them in a big ol’ bowl. Add in the onions, cheese, sour cream, milk, and that glorious melted butter. Stir with purpose but gently—we’re not smashing them, just mixing lovingly.
Step 4. Season with salt and pepper. Taste if you like. (You know you want to.)
Step 5. Spread the whole thing into a greased 9×13 baking dish. Sprinkle some extra cheese on top, because when has that ever been a bad idea?
Step 6. Add a pinch of paprika on top for flair. Bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes until golden and bubbly and beautiful.
Step 7. Let it sit for a few minutes. Just enough time to chase everyone to the table. Top with parsley if you’re fancy or just hungry.

5) Tips for Making Southern Cheesy Baked Potatoes
Don’t overcook the potatoes when boiling. Keep them just barely fork-tender. We want texture, not mush.
If you like your dishes with a little extra oomph, consider stirring in crumbled bacon or even a handful of chopped green onions. It’s your dish. Make it yours.
You can swap sour cream with Greek yogurt in a pinch. I’ve done it. It’s still creamy and gives it a nice tang. No one noticed the difference, including my picky cousin who eats like a detective with trust issues.
6) Making Southern Cheesy Baked Potatoes Ahead of Time
This dish is a dream for make-ahead planning. I’ve prepped it in the morning, tucked it in the fridge, and popped it in the oven come dinnertime. The whole house smells like something special’s happening.
If you prep it early, hold back on the extra cheese topping until just before baking. Trust me, it’ll melt and crisp better that way.
It reheats beautifully too, so you’re winning at dinner today and tomorrow. That’s rare magic in the cooking world.
7) Storing Leftover Southern Cheesy Baked Potatoes
Leftovers? First of all—how? But if you do have any, store them in an airtight container and refrigerate. They’ll keep for about four days.
When reheating, a quick zap in the microwave will do, but the oven brings that crispy top back to life. I usually sneak a forkful straight from the fridge too. No shame in my leftover game.
This cheesey potatoes easy recipe might be even better the next day. The flavors settle in and get cozy. Kind of like me on the couch after a plate of these.
8) Try these side dish recipes next!
9) Southern Cheesy Baked Potatoes Recipe

Southern Cheesy Baked Potatoes – Cheesey Potatoes Easy Recipe
Ingredients
- 6 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup whole milk
- 4 tablespoons butter, melted
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Paprika (optional, for topping)
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Boil the diced potatoes in salted water for about 10 minutes or until just fork-tender. Don’t overcook—we’re not making mashed potatoes here.
- Drain and transfer the potatoes to a large mixing bowl.
- Add the chopped onion, shredded cheese, sour cream, milk, and melted butter. Stir it like you mean it, but gently—you want the chunks to stay chunky.
- Season with salt and pepper to your liking.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and sprinkle a bit more cheese on top (because obviously).
- Dust with paprika if you’re feeling fancy.
- Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on the top.
- Let it sit for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley if you’re trying to impress guests—or yourself.
10) Nutrition
Serving Size: 1/6 • Calories: 290 • Sugar: 2 g • Sodium: 480 mg • Fat: 18 g • Saturated Fat: 9 g • Carbohydrates: 22 g • Fiber: 2 g • Protein: 7 g • Cholesterol: 35 mg

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