Hash Brown Casserole Recipe
If you’re looking for the perfect comfort food to serve for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner, this Hash Brown Casserole is a must-try! It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, making it a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, and you can even prepare it ahead of time!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to get started with this delicious casserole:
- 1 bag (30 oz) of frozen hash browns, thawed
- 1 can (10.5 oz) of cream of chicken soup (or use cream of mushroom for a vegetarian version)
- 1 cup of sour cream
- 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup of melted butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)
- 1/2 tsp of garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp of onion powder
- 1 tsp of salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 tsp of black pepper
- 1 cup of crushed cornflakes (optional for a crunchy topping)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the casserole bakes evenly and comes out perfectly golden brown.
Step 2: Prepare the Casserole Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the following ingredients:
- Thawed hash browns
- Cream of chicken soup
- Sour cream
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Melted butter
- Onion (if using)
- Garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper
Stir the mixture together until everything is evenly combined.
Step 3: Transfer to a Baking Dish
Once your casserole mixture is ready, transfer it into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it out evenly.
Step 4: Add the Crunchy Topping (Optional)
For an added crunch, sprinkle 1 cup of crushed cornflakes evenly over the top of the casserole. You can also use panko breadcrumbs or even crispy fried onions for a twist! This step is optional, but it gives the casserole a lovely texture contrast.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy. If you prefer a softer, creamier casserole, you can skip the crunchy topping and bake for a slightly shorter time.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once the casserole is baked to your desired level of crispiness, remove it from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving. This will allow it to set slightly and make serving easier.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Hash Brown Casserole
- Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare this casserole the night before! Simply assemble the casserole, cover it with plastic wrap, and store it in the fridge. The next morning, bake it as usual. It will save you time on busy mornings or when hosting guests!
- Flavor Variations: Add cooked bacon bits, sausage, or even sautéed mushrooms to mix things up. For a spicier version, consider adding some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper!
- Dairy-Free Option: If you need a dairy-free version, use dairy-free cheese, sour cream alternatives, and cream of chicken soup alternatives.
- Vegetarian Option: Swap the cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom soup to make this casserole vegetarian-friendly!
Final Thoughts
This Hash Brown Casserole is the ultimate comfort dish for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or just craving a filling meal, this recipe delivers on flavor and ease. Don’t forget to experiment with different toppings or additions, like fresh herbs or crispy bacon, to make it your own!
Try it out today, and enjoy every cheesy, comforting bite!
