There’s something magical about hashbrown casserole. Imagine a bubbling, cheesy delight that fills the kitchen with aromas so comforting, they could wrap around you like a warm hug. Each crispy layer beckons you to dive in, promising a crispy exterior that gives way to creamy, flavorful goodness inside.
Now, let’s be real: hashbrown casserole is not just food; it’s an experience! I remember the first time my grandma whipped this dish up for a family gathering. The moment I tasted it, I knew I had found my soulmate in potato form. It’s the star of brunches, potlucks, and late-night cravings—perfect for any occasion where comfort food is required.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This hashbrown casserole is incredibly easy to make and requires minimal prep time
- The flavor profile boasts cheesy goodness combined with subtle onion and garlic undertones
- Its golden-brown crust makes it visually appealing on any table
- Enjoy it as a breakfast side or main dish at gatherings; its versatility knows no bounds
I’ll never forget the time my cousin tried to sneak seconds while everyone was distracted. Let’s just say we all noticed when he got caught red-handed with a fork halfway to his mouth!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Frozen Hashbrowns: Choose shredded or cubed based on your preference; both deliver fantastic texture.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Opt for sharp cheddar for robust flavor that complements the potatoes perfectly.
Cream of Chicken Soup: This adds creaminess and depth; consider low-fat options for a lighter version.
Sour Cream: Use full-fat sour cream for richness; Greek yogurt can be a tangy alternative if desired.
Onion Powder: A dash brings out savory flavors without the hassle of chopping fresh onions.
Salt and Pepper: Season to taste; fresh ground black pepper adds an extra kick.
Butter: Melted butter enhances flavor and helps create that irresistible crispy top.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray or butter to ensure easy serving later.
Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix frozen hashbrowns, cheddar cheese, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, onion powder, salt, and pepper until everything is well-coated and evenly distributed.
Add Butter Topping: Pour melted butter over the top of your mixture in the baking dish. This will create that lovely golden-brown crust we all crave.
Bake to Perfection: Place your casserole in the oven and bake for 45-50 minutes or until it’s bubbly and golden brown on top. You know it’s ready when your kitchen smells like heaven!
Cool Before Serving: Once baked, let it cool for about 10 minutes before slicing into squares. This allows everything to set nicely without falling apart.
Enjoy every forkful of this delightful dish that pairs perfectly with breakfast or dinner!
You Must Know
- This hashbrown casserole is not just a comforting dish; it’s a crowd-pleaser
- The crispy, cheesy top layer combined with the creamy interior creates an irresistible texture that everyone loves
- Perfect for breakfast or as a side dish for dinner
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Combine ingredients in a large bowl, then pour into a greased baking dish. Bake for about 45 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to add cooked bacon bits, chopped onions, or bell peppers. You can even experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for zing.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated through for best results.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve perfect texture, don’t skip squeezing moisture from hashbrowns
- Layer cheese halfway through baking for added gooeyness
- Don’t rush cooling; let it rest for 10 minutes before serving to set properly
Sharing this recipe always brings back fond memories of family brunches when my cousin tried to sneak extra servings while I was busy chatting away.
FAQ
Can I make hashbrown casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it the night before and bake it in the morning.
What type of hashbrowns should I use?
Use frozen shredded hashbrowns for convenience and consistent texture.
Can I freeze leftovers of hashbrown casserole?
Absolutely! Freeze portions in airtight containers for up to three months.
Hashbrown Casserole
Hashbrown casserole is a cheesy, comforting dish that transforms frozen hashbrowns into a golden-brown delight. With layers of crispy texture and creamy flavor, this casserole is the perfect addition to any brunch or dinner table. Easy to make and packed with savory goodness, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Get ready for a warm hug in every bite!
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Serves 8
Ingredients
- 30 oz frozen shredded hashbrowns
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 10.5 oz can cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp salt (to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper (to taste)
- ½ cup melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, combine the frozen hashbrowns, cheddar cheese, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, onion powder, salt, and pepper until evenly mixed.
- Pour the mixture into the greased baking dish and drizzle melted butter over the top.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
- Allow to cool for about 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
- Category: Breakfast/Sides
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/8 of casserole (approximately 180g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
