Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole has been a staple in my family for years. It’s the dish that brings everyone together, filling the house with a warm, inviting aroma. I remember the first time I made it for a family gathering; the joy on my loved ones’ faces as they took their first bites is a memory I cherish. This casserole is a creamy, comforting blend of flavors that makes every occasion feel special. Whether it’s a holiday feast or a simple weeknight dinner, this cheesy potato casserole never fails to impress. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole
- Deliciously creamy and cheesy – a flavor explosion!
- Quick prep time – ready in just over an hour.
- Perfect for family gatherings – always a crowd-pleaser.
- Budget-friendly ingredients – great for large families.
- Versatile dish – serves well as a main or side.
- Hearty and filling – perfect for breakfast or dinner.
- Can be customized with your favorite toppings!
Ingredients for Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole
Here’s everything you need for this delightful casserole:
- 1 bag (32 oz) Frozen Hash Browns – thawed (cubed or shredded) for a base.
- 2 cups Sour Cream – adds creaminess and tang.
- 1 small Onion – finely chopped for flavor.
- 1 can Cream Of Chicken Soup (approximately 10.5 oz) – for moisture and richness.
- 2 cups Shredded Cheddar Cheese – divided for melty goodness.
- 1/4 cup Butter – melted for richness.
- 1 teaspoon Salt – to enhance flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper – for a touch of spice.
How to Make Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 13×9 inch baking pan to prevent sticking; set aside.
- Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed hash browns, sour cream, finely chopped onion, cream of chicken soup, 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese, melted butter, salt, and black pepper.
- Step 3: Stir all the ingredients together thoroughly until well incorporated. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Step 4: Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking pan. Bake uncovered for 45 minutes until the casserole is set and starting to brown on the edges.
- Step 5: Remove from the oven and sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, golden, and bubbly.
Pro Tips for the Best Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole
These tricks guarantee a perfect casserole every time:
- Use freshly thawed hash browns for the best texture.
- Don’t rush the baking; let it brown for maximum flavor.
- Customize with toppings like crushed cornflakes for crunch.
What’s the secret to perfect Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole?
The secret is in the layering of flavors and textures. Ensure the hash browns are well-distributed, and don’t skip the final cheese layer—it makes all the difference!
Can I make Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare it the night before and refrigerate it. Just add 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole?
Avoid using frozen hash browns without thawing them first, as this can lead to a watery casserole. Also, be sure not to overmix the ingredients.
Best Ways to Serve Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole
This casserole is delicious on its own, but you can elevate your meal with complementary sides like a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables. For breakfast, serve it alongside scrambled eggs or crispy bacon to make a hearty morning spread.
Nutrition Facts for Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole
Per serving (recipe makes 8 servings):
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Protein: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
How to Store and Reheat Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole
Allow the casserole to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze it for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 30 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole
Why is hashbrown casserole so popular?
It’s a beloved comfort food that combines simple ingredients into a deliciously creamy dish, making it a favorite for gatherings and family meals.
Can I make it gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just use gluten-free cream of chicken soup or substitute with a homemade version. You can also swap the butter for a gluten-free margarine.
What can I add for extra flavor?
Feel free to mix in cooked bacon, sautéed bell peppers, or even jalapeños for a kick! These additions make the dish even more exciting.
Variations of Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole You Can Try
Experiment with different flavors by adding veggies like spinach or mushrooms. You can also try a hashbrown casserole with cream of chicken or switch up the cheese types for a unique twist.
Print
Deliciously Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole Recipe You’ll Love
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole is a comforting, creamy, and cheesy side dish perfect for family dinners and holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 bag (32 oz) Frozen Hash Browns, thawed (cubed or shredded)
- 2 cups Sour Cream
- 1 small Onion, finely chopped
- 1 can Cream Of Chicken Soup (approximately 10.5 oz)
- 2 cups Shredded Cheddar Cheese, divided
- 1/4 cup Butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 13×9 inch baking pan to prevent the casserole from sticking; set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed hash browns, sour cream, finely chopped onion, cream of chicken soup, 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese, melted butter, salt, and black pepper.
- Stir all the ingredients together thoroughly until well incorporated. Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking pan. Bake uncovered at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes until the casserole is set and starting to brown on the edges.
- Remove the casserole from the oven, sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, golden, and bubbly.
Notes
- This dish can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator before baking.
- You can substitute the cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom for a vegetarian option.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
