Lu-Ann Simon January 10, 2026

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Potluck Staple

Name: Potluck Staple
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 can of cream of mushroom soup; 1 cup of shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella); 1 bag of frozen mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, and corn); 1 cup of cooked rice

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As the aroma of a hearty dish fills the room, gathering friends and family around the table becomes a special ritual. Potluck Staple shines as a comforting presence at every gathering, bringing joy and warmth. Its inviting flavors and creamy texture promise to please everyone’s palate, making it a go-to choice for potlucks, picnics, or cozy dinners at home. With this dish, you’re not just serving a meal; you’re creating a shared experience filled with laughter and connection.

What Makes This Special

When you need a dish that delights and satisfies, Potluck Staple fits the bill perfectly. This favorite not only appeals to diverse tastes but is incredibly easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy hosts. The beautiful combination of flavors and textures makes each bite a delightful journey.

Here are some reasons to love Potluck Staple:

Creamy, cheesy goodness in every bite
Quick to whip up with simple ingredients
Versatile enough to accommodate various dietary preferences
Comforting and filling for all ages

Gather These Ingredients

Creating Potluck Staple requires just a few simple ingredients, and with substitutions, it caters to both your health goals and taste preferences. Swap in turkey bacon for a lighter, leaner touch and feel free to explore other variations. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 can of cream of mushroom soup
1 cup of shredded cheese (your choice of cheddar or mozzarella works well)
1 bag of frozen mixed vegetables (like carrots, peas, and corn)
1 cup of cooked rice

These elements come together beautifully, ensuring a delicious meal without any fuss.

Step by Step

Preparing Potluck Staple is as enjoyable as savoring it. Follow these straightforward steps:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This creates the perfect environment for baking the dish to bubbly perfection.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, shredded cheese, frozen mixed vegetables, and cooked rice. As you mix, the cheese starts to melt slightly, creating a creamy base.
Mix well until all ingredients are evenly coated. The smell of the soup and cheese melding is simply irresistible.
Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish. Ensure it’s spread evenly for uniform cooking and a lovely golden top.
Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden on top. You’ll know it’s ready when your kitchen fills with warm, inviting aromas.
Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Patience will reward you with perfect portioning and enhanced flavors.

Prep ~10 minutes, Cook ~30 minutes, Total ~40 minutes, Servings ~6, Kcal ~350 per serving (estimate).

Plan Ahead

One of the best aspects of Potluck Staple is its make-ahead potential. You can prepare the dish entirely in advance and store it in the refrigerator before baking. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. When it’s time to serve, simply pop it into the oven, and you’ll have a hot, comforting meal ready within no time!

How to Store Leftovers

Storing Potluck Staple is easy. If you have any leftover portions, simply transfer them to an airtight container and place them in the refrigerator, where they can last for about 3–4 days. For longer storage, feel free to freeze portions for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, gently reheat in the oven at 350°F until warm throughout. The key is to ensure it’s heated evenly, and a good visual cue is that lovely creamy texture returning.

Perfect Pairings

To complete your Potluck Staple experience, consider serving it with:

A light side salad drizzled with a tangy vinaigrette
Freshly baked bread or rolls to soak up all the creamy goodness
Roasted or steamed vegetables for added freshness
A fruit platter for a sweet finish
Simple dips or spreads if you’re serving it as an appetizer

Make It Your Own

There’s room for personalization with Potluck Staple, allowing you to tailor the dish to your taste or dietary needs. Here are some delightful variations:

Add Lean Proteins: Incorporate cooked ground turkey or chicken sausage for an extra protein boost.
Vegetarian Delight: Swap in hearty beans—like black beans or chickpeas—for a vegetarian version that remains filling.
Spice it Up: Stir in some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of chili flakes for a touch of heat.
Different Veggies: Use whatever vegetables you have on hand; bell peppers and zucchini work wonderfully too.
Herbal Infusion: Fold in fresh herbs like parsley or basil after baking for a fresh flavor lift.

Cook’s Notes and Secrets

To guarantee the best results with Potluck Staple, consider these pro tips:

Ensure the ingredients are well combined for consistent flavor with each bite.
Use a glass or ceramic baking dish for even heat distribution.
Allow the dish to rest for a few minutes post-baking to improve texture and make serving easier.
For added texture, consider topping the dish with breadcrumbs mixed with a little olive oil before baking.
A thermometer target of around 165°F indicates a thoroughly heated dish.

Your Questions, Answered

Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen? Absolutely! Just be sure to chop them into small, even pieces to ensure they cook thoroughly.
Can I make this in the slow cooker? Yes! Combine all ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for about 4-6 hours or until heated through.
Is it gluten-free? As long as you use gluten-free cream of mushroom soup, Potluck Staple can easily be made gluten-free.
Can I use a different type of cheese? Definitely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack or gouda for unique flavors.
How can I prevent it from becoming too dry? Cover the dish with foil while it bakes for the first 20 minutes, then uncover for the remaining time to achieve that golden top.

Closing Thoughts

Potluck Staple is more than just a dish; it’s a loving embrace of flavors that brings people together. Whether it’s to share laughter at a potluck or to enjoy a cozy night in, this creamy, cheesy delight is bound to become a cherished favorite. We invite you to make Potluck Staple soon and share the warmth with your loved ones!

Potluck Staple

Author: anastasia-rice
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A creamy, cheesy dish perfect for gatherings that brings joy and warmth to any table.

Ingredients

Scale

1 can of cream of mushroom soup
1 cup of shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
1 bag of frozen mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, and corn)
1 cup of cooked rice

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large mixing bowl, combine cream of mushroom soup, shredded cheese, frozen mixed vegetables, and cooked rice.
Mix well until all ingredients are evenly coated.
Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading evenly.
Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
Let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

You can prepare the dish in advance and store it in the refrigerator before baking. Leftovers can be refrigerated for 3-4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American