Description

Grandma’s Hash Brown Casserole is a comforting and cheesy side dish featuring tender shredded hash browns baked with sharp cheddar cheese, creamy soup, sour cream, and a buttery cornflake topping. Perfect for holidays or family gatherings, this classic American recipe offers a golden, bubbly casserole that’s easy to prepare and satisfying to serve.

Ingredients

Base Ingredients

1 bag (30-ounce) frozen shredded hash browns, thawed
1 can (10.5-ounce) cream of chicken soup
1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 small yellow onion, finely diced
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Topping

2 cups crushed cornflakes
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

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Instructions

Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
Mix the casserole base: In a large bowl, combine the thawed hash browns, cream of chicken soup, 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, melted butter, finely diced onion, salt, and black pepper. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
Assemble the casserole: Spread the mixed hash brown mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, ensuring a flat, even surface for uniform baking.
Prepare the topping: In a small bowl, combine the crushed cornflakes with 2 tablespoons melted butter to create a crispy, buttery topping.
Add topping and cheese: Sprinkle the cornflake mixture evenly over the casserole base. Then, evenly distribute the remaining 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese on top for a cheesy crust.
Bake: Place the casserole uncovered in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes until the dish is bubbly and the topping turns golden brown.
Rest before serving: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes to set, making it easier to serve.

Notes

For an extra burst of flavor, stir in diced cooked ham or crumbled bacon into the hash brown mixture before baking.
This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated until ready to bake, making it great for meal prep.
Make sure to thaw the hash browns completely for even cooking and texture.
Use sharp cheddar cheese for the best balance of meltiness and flavor.