Holly Beach Potatoes

8 servings Prep: 15 m Cook: 45 m Total: 1 h Beginner
This cheesy hash brown potato casserole is great with barbecue or with any Cajun Sunday dinner or family gathering. Lache Pas La Patate - an old Cajun phrase which means more than “don’t let the potatoes go!”

Ingredients

  • 32 ounces hash brown potatoes cubed
  • 1 stick butter
  • 1 container (8 oz) sour cream
  • 1 can cream of chicken soup
  • 2 cups shredded cheese of your choice
  • salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Spray bottom of 13x9 pan with Pam or cooking spray. Spread the hash brown potatoes on the bottom of your pan. Season the top of the potatoes with salt and pepper.
  2. In a separate bowl, melt the stick of butter in the microwave or stovetop. Once melted, add the sour cream, soup, and cheese. Mix well together and top the potatoes with the mixture.
  3. Bake at 350 degrees for 45 minutes. Stir the casserole in the last 15 minutes of cooking time.

Common Problems and Solutions

Q: Why is my casserole watery?

A: Make sure to use frozen hash browns that haven't been thawed yet - excess moisture from thawed potatoes can make the dish watery. Also ensure your casserole is fully baked (the edges should be bubbly and golden).

Q: Can I prepare this ahead of time?

A: Yes! Assemble the casserole completely, cover with foil, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking. Add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if going straight from the refrigerator to the oven.

Tips and Techniques

For extra flavor, try using sharp cheddar cheese and adding a sprinkle of Cajun seasoning to the potato layer. You can also top with crushed corn flakes mixed with melted butter during the last 15 minutes for a crispy topping.

Ingredient Substitutions

  • cream of chicken soup: cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup
  • sour cream: Greek yogurt or cottage cheese blended smooth
  • hash brown potatoes: frozen tater tots or fresh diced potatoes
  • butter: margarine or olive oil

Equipment Needed

  • 13x9 inch baking pan
  • mixing bowl
  • measuring cups

Historical Context

Holly Beach, known as the ‘Cajun Riviera,’ is a beloved coastal community in Cameron Parish. This simple but satisfying potato casserole reflects the Cajun love of communal meals and dishes that feed a crowd without fuss.