Hash Brown Casserole – Crispy, Cheesy, Comfort Food

Looking for a breakfast-for-dinner or hearty side dish that everyone will love? This Hash Brown Casserole combines golden, crispy potatoes with creamy cheese and savory seasonings for a dish that’s irresistible. Perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or cozy weeknights, it’s simple to assemble yet packed with comforting flavors. Save this recipe to make a creamy, cheesy, crowd-pleasing casserole anytime.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy, cheesy perfection on top with creamy potatoes inside
• Easy to make with simple pantry ingredients
• Family favorite that works for breakfast, brunch, or dinner
• Versatile – add bacon, ham, or vegetables for extra flavor
• Perfect for meal prep and leftovers

Ingredients

• 1 (30 oz) package frozen shredded hash browns, thawed
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• 1 1/2 cups crushed cornflakes or crispy breadcrumbs (for topping)
• 2 tablespoons melted butter (for topping)
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Combine hash browns and shredded onion in a large mixing bowl.
3. Mix the creamy base: whisk together cream of chicken soup, sour cream, 1/2 cup melted butter, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and paprika.
4. Add the cheese: fold in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese into the hash brown mixture.
5. Combine: pour the creamy mixture over the hash browns and stir until evenly coated.
6. Transfer to baking dish: spread mixture evenly.
7. Prepare topping: mix crushed cornflakes with 2 tablespoons melted butter and sprinkle over the casserole. Top with remaining 1 cup cheddar cheese.
8. Bake uncovered for 45–50 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.
9. Garnish with parsley before serving for color and freshness.

Tips & Variations

• Add protein: Mix in cooked bacon, diced ham, or shredded chicken.
• Make it vegetarian: Omit meat and use cream of mushroom soup.
• Extra creamy: Stir in a little cream cheese before baking.
• Make ahead: Assemble the casserole, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
• Crunchier top: Broil for 2–3 minutes at the end for an extra crispy crust.

Storage & Freezer Instructions

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Cool completely, then wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through or microwave individual portions for 2–3 minutes.

Serving & Pairing Ideas

• Serve alongside scrambled eggs and fresh fruit for a hearty breakfast-for-dinner.
• Pair with roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
• Complements simple protein dishes like grilled chicken or sausage.
• A crisp apple cider or sparkling water balances the richness of the casserole.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?

Yes, peel and shred 4–5 medium potatoes, then rinse and dry thoroughly before using. Blanching briefly in boiling water helps prevent a watery casserole.

Can I make this casserole dairy-free?

Yes, substitute dairy-free sour cream and cheese alternatives. Use a dairy-free cream soup or make a cashew cream for a smooth texture.

How do I prevent the casserole from being soggy?

Make sure the hash browns are thawed and well-drained. Avoid overmixing, and ensure the creamy mixture is evenly distributed without excess liquid.

Can I add vegetables to the casserole?

Absolutely! Bell peppers, mushrooms, or broccoli work well. Lightly steam or sauté vegetables before adding to avoid extra moisture.

Ready to Make It?

This Hash Brown Casserole is comfort food at its finest, crispy on top, creamy inside, and full of cheesy flavor. It’s perfect for any meal of the day and loved by both kids and adults.

You Might Also Like

• Cheddar Bay Biscuit Chicken Pot Pie – Comfort food with flaky biscuit topping.
• Crispy Air Fryer Pizza Rolls – Crunchy, fun, and kid-friendly.
• Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta Bake – Hearty and family-approved.
• Grilled Chicken Avocado Salad – Fresh, light, and flavorful.

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