Sour Cream and Onion Party Potatoes: Ultimate Side Dish Recipe
If you’re looking for the ultimate showstopper at your next gathering, look no further than Sour Cream and Onion Party Potatoes: Ultimate Side Dish. Imagine fluffy potatoes swirled with tangy sour cream, sharp cheddar, and the irresistible zing of onion dip mix, all bubbling beneath a golden, cheesy crust—every bite is a celebration. Whether you’re cooking for holidays, potlucks, or just an indulgent weekend feast, this comforting casserole will steal the spotlight and have everyone coming back for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Sour Cream and Onion Party Potatoes: Ultimate Side Dish comes from a handful of simple, honest ingredients that each play an essential role. Let’s break them down so you know exactly why this side dish is about to become your new favorite.
- Potatoes: Russet or Yukon gold potatoes make the perfect, creamy base—just peel and chop before boiling.
- Sour Cream: The secret ingredient for tang and that signature luxurious texture.
- Whole Milk: A splash keeps everything silky and comforting (don’t substitute with skim if you want pure decadence).
- Unsalted Butter: A few generous pats lend rich flavor—you’ll taste the difference!
- Onion Soup Mix or Dip Mix: This packet brings those nostalgic, savory onion flavors we all crave; it’s what gives the potatoes their party vibe.
- Garlic Powder: Just a touch for extra depth without overpowering the oniony goodness.
- Salt: Enhances all the flavors—be sure to taste and adjust as you go.
- Black Pepper: Adds balance and a gentle kick.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Gooey, melty, sharp cheese weaves through every mouthful, plus forms a crave-worthy topping.
- Chopped Green Onions: For freshness and color—don’t skip these!
- Crushed Butter Crackers or Potato Chips (optional): Sprinkled on top, these add a fun crunch that makes each bite extra festive.
How to Make Sour Cream and Onion Party Potatoes: Ultimate Side Dish
Step 1: Prep and Boil the Potatoes
Start by peeling and cutting your potatoes into rough chunks, aiming for uniform pieces so they cook evenly. Drop them into a big pot of well-salted water and bring to a boil. Let them simmer for about 15 to 20 minutes, or until they’re fork-tender and ready for that creamy transformation.
Step 2: Mash and Mix In the Good Stuff
Once your potatoes are fully cooked and drained, return them to the warm pot. Toss in the sour cream, milk, butter, onion soup mix, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Now, mash everything together until the potatoes are soft and creamy. You’re looking for a smooth, yet pillowy texture—no lumps, just love.
Step 3: Fold in Cheese and Green Onions
When the potatoes are mashed to perfection, stir in 1 cup of cheddar and the chopped green onions. The heat from the potatoes will start melting the cheese just enough, weaving that cheddar goodness through every bite. The green onions bring zing and a pop of color that brighten up the dish.
Step 4: Assemble and Finish the Topping
Spoon the creamy potato mixture into your prepared baking dish, smoothing out the top so it bakes evenly. Sprinkle over the remaining half cup of cheddar, then, if you’re feeling extra festive, scatter those crushed butter crackers or potato chips on top for the ultimate crunchy finish.
Step 5: Bake Until Bubbling and Golden
Slide your casserole into a 375°F oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is melty and bubbly, and the top is golden in spots. Let it sit for a few moments, then shower with more fresh green onions just before serving—watch everyone dive in!
How to Serve Sour Cream and Onion Party Potatoes: Ultimate Side Dish

Garnishes
Don’t underestimate the power of a finishing flourish. A sprinkle of extra chopped green onions right before serving brings a pop of freshness and color, while a dusting of paprika or a smattering of crispy bacon bits can make these party potatoes even more irresistible.
Side Dishes
Sour Cream and Onion Party Potatoes: Ultimate Side Dish pair deliciously with roasted or grilled meats, classic holiday entrees, or as a co-star in any comforting potluck lineup. They’re hearty enough to stand alongside lighter dishes like a crisp green salad, but feel right at home next to glazed ham or herb-roasted chicken.
Creative Ways to Present
For an extra-fun twist, try serving individual portions in mini ramekins or as part of a buffet bar where guests can add their own toppings—think more cheese, chives, bacon crumbles, or spicy jalapeños. These potatoes also shine when scooped into small cups for easy mingling at parties.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Got leftovers from your Sour Cream and Onion Party Potatoes: Ultimate Side Dish? Lucky you! Simply let them cool, then transfer to an airtight container. They’ll stay delicious in the fridge for 3 to 4 days—perfect for easy lunches or a second round at dinner.
Freezing
This casserole freezes beautifully. Assemble and cool completely before wrapping tightly in foil or transferring to a freezer-safe dish. It will keep well for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to indulge, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best texture.
Reheating
For best results, reheat leftover potatoes in the oven at 350°F, covered with foil to retain moisture. It takes about 20–25 minutes. If you’re in a hurry, microwave individual portions in short bursts, stirring between intervals until heated through.
FAQs
Can I make Sour Cream and Onion Party Potatoes: Ultimate Side Dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare everything except the final bake, then cover and refrigerate the dish for up to a day. Just bring it to room temperature and bake as directed for hot, bubbly perfection when your guests arrive.
What’s the best type Side Dish
Russet potatoes create the fluffiest texture, while Yukon golds deliver a buttery smoothness and pretty color. Both work wonderfully, so use your personal favorite (or whatever you have on hand).
Can I add other ingredients for extra flavor?
Definitely! Feel free to stir in cooked, crumbled bacon, a scoop of cream cheese for even more richness, or a pinch of cayenne pepper for subtle heat. The recipe is a fantastic canvas for your favorite mix-ins.
Are these potatoes gluten-free?
The base recipe for Sour Cream and Onion Party Potatoes: Ultimate Side Dish is gluten-free if you use a certified gluten-free onion soup mix and skip the cracker or chip topping. Always double-check packaged ingredients if allergies are a concern.
Can I use low-fat sour cream or milk?
You can, but you may sacrifice a little of the creamy richness that makes this dish so special. For parties or holidays, I highly recommend going all in on the full-fat version—it’s worth it!
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a comforting, crowd-pleasing favorite to add to your table, Sour Cream and Onion Party Potatoes: Ultimate Side Dish truly delivers. Make them once, and I guarantee your friends and family will ask for the recipe every time. Go ahead—give these dreamy, cheesy potatoes a spot at your next celebration!
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Sour Cream and Onion Party Potatoes: Ultimate Side Dish Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Sour Cream and Onion Party Potatoes: Ultimate Side Dish is a decadent and flavorful potato casserole that combines the creamy richness of sour cream and cheddar cheese with the savory kick of onion soup mix and green onions. Topped with a cheesy crust, this dish is perfect for gatherings or as a comforting side.
Ingredients
Potato Mixture:
- 2 pounds russet or Yukon gold potatoes (peeled and cut into chunks)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 packet (1 oz) onion soup mix or dip mix
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions (plus extra for garnish)
Topping:
- 1/2 cup crushed butter crackers or potato chips (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 375°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Boil Potatoes: Boil potatoes in salted water until fork-tender. Drain and return to the pot.
- Mix Ingredients: Add sour cream, milk, butter, onion soup mix, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mash until smooth. Stir in 1 cup cheese and green onions.
- Bake: Transfer mixture to baking dish, top with remaining cheese and crackers/chips. Bake for 20–25 minutes until bubbly.
- Serve: Garnish with green onions before serving.
Notes
- This dish can be prepared a day ahead and baked just before serving.
- For extra richness, consider adding cream cheese or bacon as a topping.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3/4 cup
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 40mg