If you’re looking to elevate your next gathering or simply crave a comforting side dish with a delightful twist, the Sour Cream and Onion Party Potatoes Recipe is an absolute must-try. This creamy, tangy, and savory potato dish combines fluffy russet potatoes with the rich flavors of sour cream, sharp onion soup mix, and melty cheddar cheese, creating a crowd-pleaser that’s both nostalgic and irresistibly tasty. Each bite bursts with a perfect balance of creamy and cheesy goodness, accented by a hint of green onion freshness. It’s a simple yet show-stopping recipe that transforms humble potatoes into a festive star of any meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for this recipe is a breeze, and every item plays a crucial role in building the dish’s luscious texture and flavor profile. From the earthy potatoes to the tangy sour cream and sharp onion soup mix, these ingredients come together to create the magic of this savory side.
- 2 pounds russet potatoes: The perfect starch for fluffy, creamy mashed potatoes that hold flavors beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt for boiling: Enhances the natural flavor of the potatoes right from the start.
- 1 cup sour cream: Adds a rich tang and silky texture to the potatoes.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter: Brings a luxurious creaminess and depth of flavor.
- 1/2 cup whole milk: Helps achieve the perfect mash consistency without thinning out the taste.
- 1 packet (1 ounce) dry onion soup mix: Infuses the dish with a classic savory onion and herb blend.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a subtle garlicky warmth, rounding out the flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Provides just enough spice to keep things lively.
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts atop for that irresistible cheesy finish.
- 2 green onions thinly sliced for garnish: Adds a fresh, crisp bite and lovely color contrast.
How to Make Sour Cream and Onion Party Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Cook the potatoes
Start by peeling and cutting your russet potatoes into chunks. Place them in a large pot, cover with cold water, and sprinkle in the kosher salt. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat and let simmer until the potatoes are fork-tender—usually about 15 to 20 minutes. This step ensures the potatoes are soft enough for an ultra-creamy texture when mashed.
Step 2: Mash the potatoes
Drain the cooked potatoes thoroughly and return them to the pot while still warm. Add the unsalted butter and begin mashing until mostly smooth. Butter is essential here as it lends that creamy mouthfeel and rich flavor that makes this dish comforting and indulgent.
Step 3: Combine with sour cream and seasoning
Now stir in the sour cream, whole milk, dry onion soup mix, garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix everything until the potatoes are luxuriously creamy and the seasonings are evenly distributed. The onion soup mix is the secret powerhouse ingredient that gives this dish its signature savory tang.
Step 4: Add the cheese and garnish
Transfer the mashed potatoes into a serving dish and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top. This layer melts into a cheesy blanket that elevates the entire dish. Finish by scattering the thinly sliced green onions over the top for a fresh pop of flavor and color that makes the dish look as good as it tastes.
How to Serve Sour Cream and Onion Party Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
Beyond the green onions, you can let your creativity shine by adding crispy bacon bits or even a sprinkle of smoked paprika for a little smoky punch. These garnishes complement the creamy potatoes beautifully and make the dish feel extra special for any party or family dinner.
Side Dishes
This party potatoes recipe is a fantastic side to grilled meats, roasted chicken, or a holiday ham. It pairs wonderfully with fresh green beans, a crisp salad, or sautéed vegetables, balancing rich and fresh flavors on your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider baking this recipe in a casserole dish with a crunchy breadcrumb topping for a delightful texture contrast. Or serve it in individual ramekins for an elegant touch that’s perfect for formal dinners or cozy gatherings alike.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers (and you likely will), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 3 days, making for an easy, indulgent next-day side dish.
Freezing
This Sour Cream and Onion Party Potatoes Recipe freezes beautifully. Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Just keep in mind that the texture may soften slightly once thawed, but the flavors remain intact and delicious.
Reheating
Reheat leftover potatoes gently in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave in short bursts, stirring occasionally to keep the texture creamy. Adding a splash of milk or sour cream during reheating helps revive the smoothness of the dish.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of potato for this recipe?
Russet potatoes are ideal because of their starchy, fluffy nature when cooked, but Yukon Gold can work as a creamier alternative. Avoid waxy potatoes as they don’t mash as well.
Is there a way to make this dish dairy-free?
You can substitute dairy ingredients with plant-based alternatives, such as coconut milk yogurt for sour cream and vegan butter, but expect a slight difference in flavor and texture.
Can I prepare this recipe without the onion soup mix?
While the onion soup mix gives this dish its signature flavor, you can make your own blend with dried onion flakes, parsley, garlic, and beef or vegetable bouillon powder for a homemade twist.
How spicy is this Sour Cream and Onion Party Potatoes Recipe?
The black pepper adds just a gentle heat that complements the tangy and savory notes without overwhelming the palate—perfect for all ages.
Can I add other ingredients to make it more substantial?
Absolutely! Fold in crispy bacon, caramelized onions, or even roasted garlic for added depth and heartiness that makes this recipe even more memorable.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so comforting and joyous about the Sour Cream and Onion Party Potatoes Recipe that makes it a beloved classic in any kitchen. Whether you’re preparing a casual family meal or impressing guests at a celebration, this dish brings warmth, flavor, and a little bit of magic to the table. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite side that everyone will ask for again and again.
Print
Sour Cream and Onion Party Potatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Sour Cream and Onion Party Potatoes are a creamy, flavorful twist on classic mashed potatoes. Made with russet potatoes, sour cream, onion soup mix, and cheddar cheese, this comforting side dish is perfect for gatherings and holidays, delivering rich, tangy, and savory notes in every bite.
Ingredients
Potatoes and Seasonings
- 2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt (for boiling)
- 1 packet (1 ounce) dry onion soup mix
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Dairy
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Garnish
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
Instructions
- Boil the potatoes: Place the peeled and chunked russet potatoes into a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add 1 tablespoon of kosher salt. Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat and cook the potatoes until they are fork-tender, which should take about 15 to 20 minutes. Drain the potatoes well once cooked.
- Mash the potatoes: Return the drained potatoes to the pot. Add 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter and mash the potatoes until they are mostly smooth, leaving some texture for a hearty consistency.
- Mix in sour cream and seasonings: Stir in 1 cup of sour cream, 1/2 cup of whole milk, 1 packet of dry onion soup mix, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper into the mashed potatoes until everything is creamy and well combined.
- Assemble and garnish: Transfer the creamy potato mixture to a serving dish. Sprinkle 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top. Garnish with the thinly sliced green onions to add a fresh, vibrant finish.
- Serve warm: Serve the party potatoes warm as a delicious side dish. For best flavor, serve immediately but you can prepare ahead and reheat before serving.
Notes
- This dish can be prepared ahead of time and reheated in the oven just before serving to save time.
- For extra flavor and texture, try folding in crispy bacon bits or caramelized onions into the mashed potatoes.
- You can adjust the milk quantity slightly to achieve your preferred creaminess level.
- Using russet potatoes provides the best texture and richness for this recipe.
