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  • Cheesy Potatoes in Oven – Carlsbad Cravings

    Cheesy Potatoes in Oven – Carlsbad Cravings


    If you’re looking for the ultimate cheesy potato casserole, you’ve just struck gold—Yukon gold, to be exact. This recipe isn’t your average throw-it-together side dish; it’s a next-level comfort food experience crafted by someone who knows their way around creamy sauces, melting cheeses, and flavor-packed magic without ANY canned soups!  With step-by-step photos, expert tips, and a carefully crafted technique, this recipe guarantees a from-scratch potato casserole that puts every “cream of” shortcut to shame.

    top view of cheesy potatoes showing how cheesy and creamy they are

     

    You are sure to love this Recipe for Cheesy Potatoes!

    This recipe is proven, foolproof and a must-have for your weeknight or special occasion lineup. Here’s why you’ll love it:

    • No Canned Soups Needed: Ditch the mystery cans! This recipe features a luxurious, made-from-scratch sauce, a tried and tested favorite used in my Chicken Divan, Tuna Casserole, Hashbrown Casserole, and more!
    • Flavor-Packed: With layers of Dijon, Worcestershire, herbs, and spices, this casserole is anything but bland—it’s savory, balanced, and downright addictive.
    • Ultra Creamy Texture: Pre-boiling the potatoes ensures they bake up irresistibly tender, even, and creamy—no hard or undercooked bites here!
    • Two Kinds of Cheese: A combo of sharp cheddar and Gruyere means ultra-flavorful, melty magic in every bite with unparalleled flavor.
    • So Saucy: Generous amounts of creamy sauce mean zero dryness and maximum comfort food satisfaction.
    • Make-Ahead Magic: This recipe is perfect for prepping in advance! Assemble up to two days ahead, then bake and enjoy when ready.
    up close of cheesy potatoes recipe showing how cheesy they are

    Cheesy Potato Recipe Ingredients

    Let’s take a closer look at what you need to make this recipe (measurements in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post):

    • Potatoes: Use Yukon Gold potatoes for their naturally creamy texture. They hold up well and don’t disintegrate or taste mealy. Look for larger potatoes, which make peeling quicker.
    • Homemade Cream of Chicken Soup:  This sauce is epic.  It begins with a roux that’s whisked with chicken broth, milk, and spices. Cornstarch helps thicken and stabilize the sauce, while Dijon mustard and Worcestershire sauce add brightness and savory depth.
    • Spices: A flavorful mix of salt, pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, dried parsley, and a pinch of cayenne adds depth, warmth, and balanced seasoning throughout the casserole—there are no bland bites here!
    • Sharp Cheddar:  Freshly shredded cheddar adds bold, tangy richness and savory sharpness.
    • Gruyere: This is the consummate melting cheese that’s slightly sweet, slightly salty, creamy, nutty, and boasts enough flavor to cut through the richness of the casserole.
    • You will likely have the option between regular Gruyère and smoked Gruyère cheese. I recommend using regular for this recipe, as the smoked flavor is quite strong and better suited for single-layering, such as in French Onion Chicken or Monte Cristo Sandwiches.
    • Chicken bouillon: This imparts a complex, savory goodness to the cheesy sauce (it’s like salt with FLAVOR). You may use bouillon powder, bouillon cubes or bouillon base (like Better Than Bouillon or Zoup!).  Add it to the sauce without dissolving it in liquid first. 
    • Sour Cream: Adds a slight tanginess and fabulous creaminess. Full-fat sour cream melts easier than nonfat, but you can use nonfat with this knowledge. 
    • Topping: Panko is a Japanese breadcrumb and can be found next to traditional Italian breadcrumbs at your grocery store.  Panko breadcrumbs are lighter, larger, and drier than regular breadcrumbs, absorbing less moisture and resulting in a crispy topping.
    top view showing cheesy potato ingredients: Yukon gold potatoes, cheddar, Gruyere, butter, chicken broth, milk, butter, flour, spices

    How to make Cheesy Potato Casserole with Diced Potatoes

    Let’s take a closer look at how to make this recipe with step-by-step photos (full recipe in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post):

    • Step 1: Cook Potatoes. Boil the potatoes until they are fork-tender.
    showing how to make cheesy potatoes by boiling diced potatoes until tender
    • Step 2: Make the Homemade Cream of Chicken Soup. Cook the flour in melted butter for 2 minutes to make the roux. Gradually whisk in the milk and part of the broth. Whisk the cornstarch with the remaining broth, then add it to the pot. Next, add the Dijon, Worcestershire sauce, chives, chicken bouillon, and all the spices.
    showing how to make cheesy potatoes by cooking the flour in melted butter for 2 minutes to make the roux. Gradually whisk in the milk and 1 ½ cups of chicken broth. Whisk the cornstarch with the remaining chicken broth, then add it to the pot. Next, add the Dijon, Worcestershire sauce, chives, chicken bouillon, and all the spices and spices.
    • Step 3: Thicken the Sauce. Bring the sauce to a simmer, whisking constantly, until it has thickened, about 5 minutes.
    showing how to make cheesy potatoes by simmering the sauce until thickened
    • Step 4: Add Cheese. Whisk in the cheddar until melted, followed by the Gruyere cheese until melted. Whisk in the sour cream until blended.
    showing how to make cheesy potatoes by stirring the cheese until melted, followed by the sour cream
    • Step 5: Add the Potatoes. Combine the boiled potatoes and the sauce
    showing how to make cheesy potatoes by adding the cheese to the sauce and stirring to combine
    • Step 6: Bake. Add the potatoes to a 9×13 casserole dish, top with cheese and bake until hot and bubbly.
    showing how to make cheesy potatoes by topping with cheese and baking
    • Step 7: Panko Topping. Meanwhile, melt the butter and olive oil together over medium heat in a large skillet. Add the panko and cook until the crumbs become golden brown.
    showing how to make cheesy potatoes by toasting the panko in a skillet
    • Step 8: Dig in! Evenly sprinkle the panko over the potatoes. Let the potato casserole stand for 10 minutes.
    showing how to make cheesy potatoes by topping the casserole with crispy panko after baking

    Tips for Cheesy Diced Potatoes

    • Don’t overboil the potatoes: They should be fork-tender, but not falling apart, or else they will continue to fall apart as you combine them with the sauce.
    • Shred your own cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. Freshly shredded cheddar and Gruyere melt like a dream.
    • Cook the flour thoroughly: Thoroughly cooking the roux removes the raw flour taste and ensures the flour is fully activated to properly thicken the sauce, making it extra velvety without being gritty or pasty.
    • Simmer the sauce until thick: It should appear slightly thick after simmering because it will thin out once baked with the potatoes. 
    • Half casserole. This casserole makes a reasonable amount, and the leftovers are fantastic!  If you don’t want leftovers, use the arrows in the recipe card to half the recipe and make it in an 8- or 9-inch square pan.
    • Let it rest before serving: After baking, give the casserole a few minutes to settle and set up for cleaner scooping and better texture.
    up close of cheesy potatoes recipe showing how cheesy they are

    Cheesy Potato Recipe Variations

    • Gluten Free: Eliminate the flour and increase the cornstarch to 3 ½ tablespoons. Double-check that the Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free. Use gluten-free panko. My favorite is Aleia’s Gluten Free Real Panko Original. It is the crunchiest panko I’ve found!
    • Bacon Lover’s Cheesy Potatoes: For irresistible smoky flavor and crunch, add crispy crumbled bacon, either mixed into the casserole or sprinkled on top before baking-or both!
    • Cheesy Ham and Potato Casserole: Stir in diced ham for a heartier, protein-packed version that turns this into a full meal.
    • Loaded Baked Potato Casserole: Top with extra cheddar, sour cream, green onions, and bacon for all the classic flavors of a baked potato in casserole form.
    • Spicy Jalapeño Cheddar Potatoes: Add chopped pickled or fresh jalapeños and use pepper jack cheese alongside the cheddar for a kick of heat.
    • Veggie-Packed Casserole: Reduce the potatoes and mix in steamed broccoli, cauliflower, sautéed mushrooms, or bell peppers.
    • Southwest Cheesy Potatoes: Mix in taco seasoning, black beans, and green chiles, and top with crushed tortilla chips before baking for a Tex-Mex twist.
    picking up a serving spoonful of cheesy potatoes recipe

    How to serve this Recipe for Cheesy Potatoes

    top view of showing how to serve cheesy potatoes recipe in a bowl garnished with green onions and parsley
    up close of recipe for cheesy potatoes in a bowl showing how cheesy and creamy they are

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    ©Carlsbad Cravings by CarlsbadCravings.com

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    • 4 pounds Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1/2-inch pieces (about 9 cups)
    • 1 tablespoon salt for boiling
    • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (may sub half olive oil)
    • 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
    • 2 cups milk
    • 1 14.5 oz. can (1 ¾ cups) low sodium chicken broth
    • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
    • 1 1/2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
    • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
    • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives or 2 tsps dried
    • 2 tsp EACH chicken bouillon, dried parsley
    • 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
    • 1 tsp EACH onion powder, garlic powder
    • 1/2 teaspoon pepper
    • Pinch of cayenne
    • 2 cups freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese (semi-packed)
    • 3 oz. (1 packed cup) freshly shredded Gruyere cheese
    • 1 cup sour cream

    • Sour Cream: Measure before prepping the potatoes so it can come to room temperature.

    • Boil Potatoes: Add the diced potatoes to a large pot or Dutch oven and add enough cold water to cover them by about 1 inch. Cover and bring to a boil, then uncover and add one tablespoon of salt. Continue to boil (uncovered) until the potatoes are fork tender but not falling apart, about 4-5 minutes after the water starts to boil. Immediately drain the potatoes in a colander. (While the potatoes are cooking, you can continue with the recipe.)
    • Prep: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Lightly spray a 9×13 baking dish with nonstick cooking spray; set aside.
    • Make Sauce: Melt the butter in a Dutch oven over medium heat. Whisk in the flour, then cook while stirring for 2 minutes. Reduce the heat to low, then gradually whisk in the milk and 1 ½ cups of chicken broth (eyeball it). Whisk the cornstarch with the remaining chicken broth, then add to the pot, followed by the Dijon, Worcestershire sauce, chives, chicken bouillon, and all spices.

    • Thicken Sauce: Bring the sauce to a simmer, whisking constantly, until it has thickened, about 5 minutes.

    • Add Cheeses: Turn off the heat, and whisk in the cheddar a handful at a time until melted, followed by the Gruyere until melted. If it’s not melting smoothly, return the heat to low and whisk until melted. Off heat, whisk in the sour cream until blended, then stir in the cooked potatoes. Adjust seasonings to taste (we like a little more salt).

    • Assemble: Transfer the potatoes to the prepared baking dish and spread them into an even layer. Evenly top with one cup of shredded cheddar.

    • Bake: Cover the casserole with foil and bake at 350 degrees for 25 minutes, until hot and bubbly and the cheese is melted. Let the casserole stand uncovered for 10 minutes to set a bit before serving. Meanwhile, make the panko topping:

    • Panko topping: Melt the butter and olive oil together over medium heat in a large skillet. Add the panko and stir to coat. Continue cooking until the crumbs become golden brown. Evenly sprinkle over the potatoes. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

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  • Marshmallow Fruit Dip – Carlsad Cravings

    Marshmallow Fruit Dip – Carlsad Cravings


    If you’re looking for the creamiest, dreamiest fruit dip that always disappears first at the party, this is it! As a go-to dip expert at parties and potlucks, I’ve added a few game-changing twists—like vanilla Greek yogurt, orange juice concentrate, and vanilla extract—for extra flavor and depth. The result is a light, ultra-luscious, tangy-sweet dip that’s miles beyond the basic version and pairs beautifully with just about everything. BONUS- lots of variations included!

    up close of dipping a strawberry in fruit dip showing how creamy it is
     

    Why You’ll Love Our Fruit Dip With Marshmallow Fluff

    This recipe is my FAVORITE—I can’t get enough, and neither can anyone else! I doubled it for a huge gathering, and every last speck was gone. Everyone asked if it was on the site yet—it is NOW! Here’s why this will be your new foolproof, go-to fruit dip!

    • Extra creamy and dreamy: The combo of marshmallow fluff, cream cheese, and yogurt creates a silky-smooth texture that’s light yet luscious.
    • Never lumpy! This common complaint among other recipes is solved by using extra soft cream cheese and beating it before adding the rest of the ingredients.
    • Flavor upgrade: A splash of vanilla extract and orange juice concentrate add bright, fresh layers so the dip isn’t overly sweet.
    • Greek yogurt magic: Vanilla Greek yogurt adds sweet and tangy silkiness so the dip doesn’t taste like one-note cream cheese or marshmallow fluff.
    • Make-ahead friendly: Whips up in minutes and stays delicious in the fridge for days—perfect for parties or snacking all week.
    • Endlessly adaptable and dippable: I’ve included lots of variations like using strawberry cream cheese and dipping options like fruit, pretzels, graham crackers, and more.
    top view of fruit dip recipe served on a platter with a variety of fruits

    Cream Cheese Fruit Dip Recipe Ingredients

    Let’s take a closer look at what you need to make this recipe (measurements in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post):

    • Marshmallow fluff: The star of the show! It brings that sweet and light texture with body that makes this dip totally irresistible.
    • Cream cheese: Use block cream cheese and not spreadable to add tang, body, and richness that balances the sweetness of the fluff. Feel free to use a flavor like strawberry, too!
    • Use full-fat for the creamiest, richest dip—it holds better in texture and flavor. With adjusted expectations, you can use ⅓ less fat.
    • Greek vanilla yogurt: Be sure to use Greek vanilla yogurt, not plain, because it tends to be thicker.
    • Frozen orange juice concentrate: This secret ingredient brightens the whole dip with a citrusy zing. Keep a can in your freezer and scoop out as needed. To thaw the 1 ½ tablespoons, microwave for about 15econds.
    • Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with warm, aromatic depth. Use more or less to taste.
    top view of fruit dip ingredients: marshmallow fluff, cream cheese, vanilla yogurt, vanilla extract, orange juice concentrate

    How to Make Cream Cheese Fruit Dip

    Let’s take a closer look at how to make this recipe with step-by-step photos (full recipe in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post):

    • Step 1: Soften Cream Cheese. Cube the cream cheese, spread it on a plate, and microwave for 20-25 seconds, until very soft.  Transfer it to a large bowl, then beat until very smooth.  
    showing how to make fruit dip by softening cream cheese, then beating it until smooth
    • Step 2: Add Ingredients. Add the yogurt, thawed orange juice concentrate, and vanilla extract and beat until smooth.
    showing how to make fruit dip by beating in the vanilla yogurt, vanilla and orange juice concentrate
    • Step 3: Fold in the fluff. Fold in the fluff until combined, noting the more you stir, the more air you release—resulting in a dip that’s less light and fluffy.
    showing how to make fruit dip by folding in the marshmallow fluff
    • Chill:  Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, but best if overnight.  Serve with assorted fruits and dippers. Store in the refrigerator for 3-5 days.
    showing how to serve cream cheese fruit dip garnished with chocolate chips and orange zest

    TIPS for making Fruit Dip

    • The cream cheese needs to be VERY SOFT, otherwise there will be lumps when mixing.
    • Fold in the fluff: The more you stir, the more air is released, resulting in a dip that’s less light and fluffy. Use a spatula and not a whisk, and fold just to combine- it’s okay if there are a few white streaks.
    • Adjust consistency: Folding in the fluffy will create a fluffier dip. For a silky smooth, thinner dip, beat the fluff into the other ingredients.
    • Adjust sweetness to taste: Add additional orange juice concentrate or orange or lemon zest if the dip is too sweet.
    • Chill overnight for best results: After mixing, the dip will be warm and thinner due to the softened cream cheese. To thicken and allow the flavors to meld, refrigerate for at least 4 hours, but overnight is best.
    • If you’re short on time: Pop the dip in the freezer for 60 minutes, stirring at 30 minutes. Stir and refrigerate or serve after 60 minutes.
    • Dress it up: For a fun twist, garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon, crushed nuts, mini chocolate chips, orange zest, or shredded coconut.

    Marshmallow Fluff Fruit Dip Variations

    Here are some delicious variations to customize your fruit dip to match your cravings or occasion:

    • Use Lemon Instead of the OJ Concentrate: Use 1-2 teaspoons of lemon zest or the next best option is 1 teaspoon of lemon extract.
    • Flavored Cream Cheese: Use strawberry, blueberry, or honey walnut cream cheese to instantly transform the flavor without adding extra ingredients.
    • Flavored Jell-O: Add 1-2 tablespoons of the dry powder (to taste) for a pop of color and flavor. Flavors such as strawberry, raspberry, lime, cherry, orange and peach would be tasty.
    • Berry Bliss: Mix in crushed raspberries or diced strawberries for a fruity flavor boost and pretty pink hue.
    • Tropical Treat: Mix in some cream of coconut (used in drinks, NOT coconut cream-see Amazon HERE) and/or a splash of pineapple juice for a beachy twist.
    • Chocolate Dream: Stir in cocoa powder or chocolate syrup for a rich, dessert-like dip. Top with mini chocolate chips.
    • Nutella Twist: Omit the yogurt and add Nutella (softened) for a rich, chocolate-hazelnut dip that’s irresistible with strawberries, bananas, and apples.
    • Peanut Butter Fluff: Swirl in a spoonful of creamy peanut butter for a sweet and salty combo, especially delicious with apples and pretzels.
    • Spiced Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice for cozy, warm flavors—perfect for fall with apples.
    top view of fruit dip recipe served on a platter with a variety of fruits

    How to Serve Cream Cheese Fruit Dip

    This fruit dip is perfect for parties, potlucks, or everyday snacking—just spoon it into a bowl and surround it with your favorite dippers for an irresistible spread. It pairs beautifully with both fresh fruit and fun treats such as:

    Fruit

    • Strawberries
    • Pineapple chunks
    • Melon cubes
    • Blueberries
    • Kiwi slices
    • Orange slices
    • Apricot slices
    • Grapes
    • Banana slices

    Treats

    • Graham crackers
    • Vanilla wafers
    • Shortbread cookies
    • Pretzels
    up close of dipping a strawberry in fruit dip with cream cheese showing how creamy it is

    WANT TO TRY THIS Fruit Dip RECIPE?

    PIN IT to your recipe BOARD TO SAVE FOR LATER!

    FIND ME ON PINTEREST FOR MORE GREAT RECIPES!  I AM ALWAYS PINNING :)!

    ©Carlsbad Cravings by CarlsbadCravings.com

    Save This Recipe To Your Recipe Box

    You can now create an account on our site and save your favorite recipes all in one place!

    • 7 oz. marshmallow fluff
    • 8 oz. full fat block cream cheese
    • 1/3 cup Greek vanilla yogurt
    • 1 1/2 Tablespoons frozen orange juice concentrate, thawed
    • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
    • Optional Garnishes: Orange zest, mini chocolate chips, granola
    • Dipper Ideas: Strawberries, pineapple, grapes, cantaloupe, sliced bananas, apple slices, kiwi slices, Graham crackers, vanilla wafer cookies, pretzels, etc.
    • Soften Cream Cheese: Cube the cream cheese, spread it on a plate, and microwave for 20-25 seconds, until very soft. Transfer it to a large bowl, then beat until very smooth using a hand mixer.

    • Add Ingredients: Add the yogurt, thawed orange juice concentrate, and vanilla extract, and beat until smooth.

    • For a silkier, thinner dip (not fluffy-pictured): Transfer the fluff to a bowl and microwave for 10 seconds. Beat the fluff into the other ingredients until smooth.

    • For a fluffier dip: Fold in the fluff until combined, noting the more you stir, the more air is released, resulting in a dip that’s less fluffy.

    • Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, but best if overnight. Serve with assorted fruits and dippers. Store in the refrigerator for 3-5 days.

    FLAVOR VARIATIONS

    • Use Lemon Instead of the OJ Concentrate: Use 1-2 teaspoons of lemon zest, or the next best option is one teaspoon of lemon extract.
    • Flavored Cream Cheese: Use strawberry, blueberry, or honey walnut cream cheese to instantly transform the flavor without adding extra ingredients.
    • Flavored Jell-O: Add 1-2 tablespoons of the dry powder (to taste) for a pop of color and flavor. Flavors such as strawberry, raspberry, lime, cherry, orange and peach would be tasty.
    • Berry Bliss: Mix in crushed raspberries or diced strawberries for a fruity flavor boost and pretty pink hue.
    • Tropical Treat: Mix in some cream of coconut (used in drinks, NOT coconut cream-see Amazon HERE) and/or a splash of pineapple juice for a beachy twist.
    • Nutella Twist: Omit the yogurt and add Nutella (softened) for a rich, chocolate-hazelnut dip that’s irresistible with strawberries, bananas, and apples.
    • Peanut Butter Fluff: Swirl in a spoonful of creamy peanut butter for a sweet and salty combo, especially delicious with apples and pretzels.
    • Spiced Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice for cozy, warm flavors—perfect for fall with apples.

    Did You Make This Recipe?

    Tag @CarlsbadCravings and Use #CarlsbadCravngs

    Leave a Review, I Always Love Hearing From You!



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