Cheesy Hash Brown Casserole is the ultimate crave-worthy comfort food that instantly brings warmth and nostalgia to any table. With its golden, crunch-topped layers of tender potatoes and gooey cheese swimming in a creamy sauce, it’s just the kind of dish that vanishes fast at potlucks, holiday brunches, or cozy weeknight dinners. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or looking for the perfect make-ahead side, this Cheesy Hash Brown Casserole will steal the show every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simplicity shines in this recipe, but every ingredient plays a role in making the casserole irresistibly creamy, cheesy, and flavorful. Here’s what you’ll need to create your perfect Cheesy Hash Brown Casserole.
- Frozen shredded hash browns (30 ounces, thawed): These are the hearty base, bringing classic potato flavor and texture without any hassle.
- Shredded sharp cheddar cheese (2 cups): For that signature cheesy richness and gooey melt that makes the casserole sing.
- Sour cream (1 cup): This adds tang and creaminess, making every bite luxuriously smooth.
- Condensed cream of chicken soup (1 can, 10.5 ounces): The secret weapon for maximum savory depth and velvety texture.
- Unsalted butter, melted (1/2 cup for casserole + 1/4 cup for topping): Butter infuses the potatoes with richness and creates that signature golden crust on top.
- Chopped onion (1/2 cup): Adds brightness, subtle sweetness, and a little bite for balance.
- Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): A hint of garlicky warmth that elevates all the flavors.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances every ingredient and brings the whole dish together.
- Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): For a little savory pop in every mouthful.
- Crushed cornflakes (1 1/2 cups): This crispy topping is the textural contrast that makes the casserole unforgettable.
How to Make Cheesy Hash Brown Casserole
Step 1: Prep the Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and giving your 9×13-inch baking dish a light greasing. This ensures your Cheesy Hash Brown Casserole lifts out easily and any precious crispy bits don’t get left behind. A well-prepped pan means less mess and better slices.
Step 2: Mix the Filling
Grab a large mixing bowl and combine your thawed hash browns, shredded cheddar, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, melted butter (the 1/2 cup for the casserole), chopped onion, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together until the mixture looks evenly coated and creamy. This is where the magic starts: you want every single shredded potato surrounded by cheesy goodness.
Step 3: Spread the Casserole
Pour the potato mixture into your prepared baking dish and gently smooth the top with a spatula. Make sure the surface is level so your Cheesy Hash Brown Casserole bakes up beautifully and every layer gets some of that irresistible golden crust.
Step 4: Add the Crunchy Topping
In a separate bowl, toss together the crushed cornflakes with the remaining 1/4 cup melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the casserole to form that classic, buttery crisp layer everyone loves. Trust me—the crunch is non-negotiable!
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Slide the casserole into your preheated oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the top is golden, the edges are bubbling, and the kitchen smells like heaven. If you’d like a little extra crunch, broil in the last 2-3 minutes, but keep a close eye so it doesn’t burn.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Once out of the oven, let your Cheesy Hash Brown Casserole rest for about 5 minutes. This gives the cheese sauce a little time to firm up so you can cut and serve gorgeous, cheesy squares without them falling apart.
How to Serve Cheesy Hash Brown Casserole
Garnishes
Dress up your Cheesy Hash Brown Casserole with a sprinkle of fresh chopped chives, sliced scallions, or a dusting of extra shredded cheddar right before serving. For a special brunch or holiday touch, a few crisp bacon crumbles or a dollop of sour cream on each serving can really wow your guests.
Side Dishes
This casserole goes with just about anything, from classic breakfast sausages and scrambled eggs to honey-glazed ham or grilled chicken. For lighter fare, pair it with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables to balance the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, scoop your Cheesy Hash Brown Casserole into mini ramekins or muffin tins for easy, individual servings. It also makes a fabulous filling for breakfast burritos or as a base for a hearty eggs Benedict—just add a poached egg and a drizzle of hollandaise!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Cheesy Hash Brown Casserole keeps beautifully! Simply scoop any extras into an airtight container and refrigerate. It’ll stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days, making it perfect for reheating whenever cravings strike.
Freezing
To freeze, let the casserole cool completely, then wrap it tightly in foil or transfer to a freezer-safe container. You can freeze either the unbaked or baked casserole for up to 2 months. Just remember to add any toppings right before reheating if freezing unbaked.
Reheating
Warm up slices in the microwave for quick leftovers, or reheat larger portions in a 350°F oven until hot and bubbly—about 20 minutes. To restore crunch to the topping, uncover the dish for the last 5 minutes of baking, or give it a quick broil.
FAQs
Can I make Cheesy Hash Brown Casserole the night before?
Absolutely! Assemble everything except the cornflake topping the night before, refrigerate, and add the topping just before baking. It’s a real time-saver for busy mornings or big family gatherings.
What if I want to make it vegetarian?
Just swap the cream of chicken soup for cream of mushroom soup or another vegetarian condensed soup. You’ll still get all the creamy, rich texture minus the meat.
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?
You can! Just peel and shred about 4 cups of potatoes, pat dry to remove extra moisture, and proceed with the recipe. Keep in mind, fresh potatoes may need a few extra minutes of baking time.
Is it possible to lighten up the recipe?
Definitely. Try using light sour cream and reduced-fat cheese, or even Greek yogurt in place of some of the sour cream. It won’t be exactly the same, but it’ll still be deliciously cheesy and satisfying.
What’s the best way to crush cornflakes for the topping?
A zip-top bag and a rolling pin work wonders—just pour in the cornflakes, seal, and crush away. You want small, crunchy bits for the perfect golden layer.
Final Thoughts
If you’re aiming to make memories around the table, you can’t go wrong with Cheesy Hash Brown Casserole. It’s pure, cozy comfort with every bite, and so easy to make your own. Give it a try—you’ll understand why this dish is always everyone’s first scoop at a gathering!
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Cheesy Hash Brown Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Cheesy Hash Brown Casserole is a comforting and easy side dish that’s perfect for any meal. Creamy, cheesy, and topped with a crispy crust, it’s sure to be a hit with your family and friends.
Ingredients
Main Casserole:
- 1 (30-ounce) bag frozen shredded hash browns, thawed
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Topping:
- 1 1/2 cups crushed cornflakes
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine hash browns, cheddar cheese, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, melted butter, onion, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
- Layer in Dish: Spread the mixture in the baking dish and smooth the top.
- Add Topping: In a small bowl, mix cornflakes with melted butter. Sprinkle over the casserole.
- Bake: Bake for 45-50 minutes until golden brown and bubbly. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- For extra flavor, consider adding bacon or ham.
- For a vegetarian option, use cream of mushroom soup.
- To crisp up the topping, broil for the last few minutes of baking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 560mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
