If you’re on the hunt for a dish that perfectly blends creamy, cheesy goodness with crispy, golden edges, then this Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s the ultimate comfort food that feels like a warm hug from the inside, combining tender shredded potatoes with sharp cheddar, a velvety base of cream soup and sour cream, and a buttery crunch on top. Whether you’re bringing a dish to a holiday brunch or simply craving a hearty side, this casserole never disappoints—it’s reliably crowd-pleasing and incredibly simple to whip up.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole Recipe uses straightforward, wholesome ingredients that work in harmony to create layers of flavor and texture. Each component plays a key role, from the tangy sour cream adding creaminess to the sharp cheddar packing a savory punch. Here’s what you’ll gather before diving in:
- Frozen shredded hash browns: The foundation for tender, soft potatoes that soak up all the flavors beautifully.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Adds gooey, melty cheesiness with a lovely sharp bite.
- Cream of chicken soup: Brings moisture and rich, savory depth to the casserole.
- Sour cream: Offers a creamy tang that cuts through the richness and keeps the dish luscious.
- Unsalted butter, melted: Infuses buttery richness and helps bind everything together.
- Chopped onion: Gives a subtle sweetness and a little texture contrast.
- Garlic powder: Enhances flavor with a mild savory warmth.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings that bring all the ingredients to life.
- Crushed cornflakes or buttered breadcrumbs (optional): A crunchy topping that crisps up beautifully under the broiler.
How to Make Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Dish
First things first, preheat your oven to a cozy 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming, grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and give it a good greasing. This keeps your casserole from sticking and ensures that perfect golden crust on the edges you’re dreaming of.
Step 2: Mix the Magic Ingredients Together
In a large bowl, toss together the thawed hash browns, shredded cheddar, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, melted butter, chopped onion, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until every bite will be packed with flavor and guaranteed to be creamy and cheesy through and through.
Step 3: Spread and Top
Transfer your mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly, making sure it’s distributed smoothly. If you want that irresistible crunch on top, sprinkle the crushed cornflakes or buttered breadcrumbs evenly over it now. This step is optional but highly recommended if you love a textural contrast.
Step 4: Bake Until Bubbling and Golden
Pop the casserole into the oven and bake uncovered for 45 to 50 minutes. You’re looking for a bubbly, hot interior with a beautifully golden top. As it bakes, the edges will crisp up delicately while the inside remains decadently creamy.
Step 5: Let It Rest Before Serving
Once out of the oven, allow your casserole to sit for 5 to 10 minutes. This pause lets everything set perfectly, making serving easier and letting the flavors meld even more.
How to Serve Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped chives or parsley adds a fresh, vibrant pop of color and a slight herbal brightness that contrasts beautifully with the rich, cheesy casserole. A dollop of sour cream on top can also add a cool creaminess that’s hard to resist.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs wonderfully with protein-rich mains like baked ham, roasted chicken, or breakfast sausages. For lighter options, consider a crisp green salad or steamed seasonal vegetables to balance the richness with some fresh crunch and color.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve small individual portions in ramekins, sprinkled with extra cheddar and breadcrumbs, then broil briefly for a personal cheesy crust. Or, for brunch, top with a sunny-side-up egg to add an indulgent, velvety layer of flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your leftover Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole Recipe will keep beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. It tastes even better the next day as the flavors get a chance to meld, making it an ideal meal prep option.
Freezing
This casserole freezes wonderfully, too! Prepare and bake it as usual, then cool completely before wrapping tightly in foil or an airtight container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat single portions in the microwave or the entire casserole in a 350°F oven until warmed through and bubbly again, about 20–30 minutes. To refresh the crunchy topping, pop it under the broiler for a couple of minutes at the end.
FAQs
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?
Definitely! While frozen hash browns offer convenience and consistent texture, freshly grated potatoes can make the dish even more vibrant. Just be sure to squeeze out excess moisture to avoid a soggy casserole.
Is cream of chicken soup necessary?
It really ties everything together with its creamy, savory flavor, but if you prefer, cream of mushroom soup or a homemade béchamel can be used as tasty alternatives to keep the casserole moist and flavorful.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Simply swap the cream of chicken soup for a cream of mushroom or vegetable soup version, and you’ll still get all the luscious cheese and potato goodness without the meat.
What cheese works best besides cheddar?
While sharp cheddar is classic and delicious, feel free to experiment with cheeses like Monterey Jack, Colby, or even a mild mozzarella for a different twist on cheesiness and melt.
How do I make this casserole gluten-free?
Use gluten-free cream soup or make your own, and swap out the cornflakes or breadcrumbs topping for gluten-free alternatives or simply omit it. This way, everyone can enjoy this comforting dish safely.
Final Thoughts
I hope this Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole Recipe inspires you to create a dish that becomes a beloved staple in your kitchen. It’s so wonderfully easy to make, endlessly comforting, and simply irresistible. Perfect for sharing with family, friends, or savoring as a little treat just for you. Go ahead and give it a try—you’ll be glad you did!
Print
Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
- Total Time: 55-60 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A comforting and cheesy hashbrown casserole that combines shredded hashbrowns, cheddar cheese, cream of chicken soup, and sour cream, baked to golden perfection. Perfect as a side dish or a hearty breakfast bake.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 (30 oz) bag frozen shredded hash browns, 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 cup chopped onion
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional Topping
- 1 cup crushed cornflakes or buttered breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Mix ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed hash browns, shredded cheddar cheese, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, melted butter, chopped onion, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Spread mixture: Evenly spread the combined mixture into the prepared baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula for uniform baking.
- Add topping: If desired, sprinkle the crushed cornflakes or buttered breadcrumbs evenly over the top to add a crunchy texture.
- Bake the casserole: Place the baking dish uncovered in the preheated oven and bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the casserole is hot, bubbly, and the topping or surface turns golden brown.
- Rest before serving: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5–10 minutes. This allows it to set, making it easier to serve and enhancing the flavors.
Notes
- You can substitute cream of chicken soup with a cream of mushroom or celery soup for a different flavor.
- For a spicier twist, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- If you prefer a crispy topping, use buttered breadcrumbs instead of cornflakes.
- Make sure to thaw the hash browns completely to avoid excess liquid in the casserole.
