There’s just something magical about a Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole: it’s creamy, rich, and practically bubbling over with homey flavors. Loved at family gatherings, potlucks, and cozy holiday breakfasts, this is a dish that always brings people together—no one can resist those golden, cheesy layers of potatoes, all melted and crisp around the edges. Whether you’re serving it as a side or enjoying it as the main attraction, this cheesy comfort classic hits every spot, every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole lies in its simple, no-fuss ingredients—yet each one plays a starring role in creating that iconic taste and texture. Here’s how these classic components work together for maximum flavor and comfort.
- Frozen shredded hashbrowns (30 oz, thawed): The heart and soul of this dish—thawed for easy mixing and ultimate tenderness.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (2 cups): For gooey, melty richness and that signature golden top.
- Cream of chicken soup (10.5 oz can): Adds savory creaminess that binds everything together.
- Sour cream (1 cup): Brings a velvety tang that balances out the richness just perfectly.
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, melted): Infuses each bite with luscious flavor and helps the top crisp up.
- Onion powder (1/2 teaspoon): Offers subtle allium notes without overpowering the casserole.
- Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon): Gives a background warmth and savoriness, making every forkful irresistible.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors, tying everything together.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a tiny kick and depth that you’ll notice in every bite.
- Chopped green onions (1/4 cup, optional): For a fresh punch of color and gentle onion flavor.
- Crushed cornflakes or Ritz crackers (1 cup, optional topping): Adds a crave-worthy crunch to contrast all that creaminess.
- Melted butter (2 tablespoons, for topping): Makes the topping extra golden and flavorful if you choose to go with it.
How to Make Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Dish
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure you get that perfectly bubbly, golden finish. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a little butter or cooking spray—this not only prevents sticking but also helps create those irresistible crispy edges that everyone fights over.
Step 2: Mix the Casserole Base
Grab a big mixing bowl and combine your thawed hashbrowns, shredded cheddar, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, melted butter, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and green onions (if using). Stir everything together until it’s all beautifully blended—the mixture should be creamy with a little texture, no dry patches in sight.
Step 3: Transfer and Smooth
Spoon the mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly from corner to corner. Take a moment to smooth the top—this helps ensure the casserole bakes up evenly, with no lumps hiding in the middle.
Step 4: Add the Crunchy Topping (Optional)
If you love a crunchy topping on your Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole, mix your crushed cornflakes or Ritz crackers with 2 tablespoons of melted butter. Sprinkle this buttery crumb mixture evenly over the casserole. It’s optional but definitely adds that extra “wow” factor, giving you a delightful textural contrast.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Slide your casserole into the oven and bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the edges are bubbling and the top is gloriously golden brown. Your kitchen will start to smell incredible! Once it’s done, let it cool for a few minutes so it sets just enough to slice neatly.
How to Serve Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole
Garnishes
Dress up your Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole with a scattering of freshly chopped green onions, a sprinkle of additional cheddar, or even a touch of chopped chives for a fresh pop of color. These finishing touches take the dish from comfort food classic to downright feast-worthy.
Side Dishes
This casserole is the ultimate partner for almost any meal. Pair it with scrambled eggs and fruit salad for brunch, or serve alongside roast chicken or grilled steak for dinner. A crisp green salad and some vibrant roasted veggies also make bright, fresh companions that balance all that glorious cheesiness.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties or brunch buffets, cut the casserole into individual squares and serve on a platter with decorative toothpicks. Or, spoon it into petite ramekins for personalized portions. You can even layer it in small mason jars for a fun picnic treat—Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole is just waiting to be dressed up!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If there’s any Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole left (it does tend to disappear fast!), tuck it into an airtight container once it’s completely cool. It’ll keep beautifully in the fridge for up to 4 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or an easy side with midweek dinners.
Freezing
This casserole is a star in the freezer, too. For best results, wrap leftovers or the fully-assembled (but unbaked) casserole tightly in plastic wrap and a layer of foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking fresh or reheating.
Reheating
To bring your Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole back to life, reheat portions in a 350°F oven, covered with foil to maintain moisture, until hot throughout—about 15 to 20 minutes. You can also use the microwave for individual servings. If you want to restore the top’s crunch, give it a quick broil at the end.
FAQs
Can I make Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover tightly, and store in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, simply add the topping (if using) and pop it in the oven. It’s a stress-free way to prep for gatherings or holiday mornings.
Is there a vegetarian version of Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole?
Yes! Just swap out the cream of chicken soup for cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup. You’ll still get all that creamy, dreamy texture without the meat-based ingredients.
Can I add protein to make it a meal?
Definitely! For a heartier version, just mix in 1–2 cups of cooked ham, chopped bacon, or diced cooked chicken before baking. It transforms the casserole into a full-fledged main course that’s sure to satisfy.
What’s the best way to thaw frozen hashbrowns?
Place the bag of frozen hashbrowns in the refrigerator overnight, or spread them out on a baking sheet at room temperature for about an hour. If you’re in a hurry, microwave on low in short bursts until just thawed—be sure to drain off any excess moisture before using.
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hashbrowns?
You can! Simply peel and shred about 4 large russet potatoes, then rinse and pat them thoroughly dry before mixing into the casserole. Fresh potatoes bring a slightly different texture but taste just as amazing.
Final Thoughts
Bring some true comfort to your table by whipping up a Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole—no matter the occasion, it’s always a crowd-pleaser. Whether savored as a side or turned into the main event, the creamy center, golden top, and all-around coziness will win everyone over in just one bite. Give it a try and watch it become a new favorite in your family’s rotation!
Print
Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole is a comforting and creamy side dish perfect for any occasion. Made with shredded hashbrowns, cheddar cheese, and a creamy sauce, this casserole is topped with a crispy buttery crust for added texture and flavor.
Ingredients
Main Casserole:
- 1 (30 oz) bag frozen shredded hashbrowns, thawed
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional)
Optional Topping:
- 1 cup crushed cornflakes or Ritz crackers
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
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 hashbrowns, cheese, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, melted butter, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and green onions if using. Mix well.
- Spread mixture: Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- Add topping: If using a topping, mix crushed cornflakes or crackers with melted butter and sprinkle over the casserole.
- Bake: Bake for 45–50 minutes until hot and bubbly with a golden brown top.
- Cool and serve: Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- For a heartier version, stir in 1–2 cups of cooked ham, bacon, or diced cooked chicken.
- You can substitute cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom for a vegetarian option.
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