Description
Comfort meets convenience in this irresistible Cheesy Hash Brown Casserole, a crowd-pleasing dish that brings warmth to any table. Creamy potatoes and melted cheese combine for a mouthwatering experience you’ll want to savor again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 1 bag (30 ounces / 850 grams) frozen hash browns, thawed
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 can (10.5 ounces / 298 grams) cream of chicken soup (or cream of mushroom for vegetarian option)
Dairy and Flavor Enhancers:
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Optional Protein:
- 1 cup cooked shredded chicken or ham
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and thoroughly coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
- In a spacious mixing bowl, thoroughly blend the thawed hash browns with shredded cheese, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, melted butter, diced onion, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until ingredients are completely integrated.
- Incorporate shredded chicken or ham into the mixture, ensuring even distribution throughout the casserole base.
- Carefully transfer the combined ingredients into the prepared baking dish, using a spatula to create a smooth, uniform layer.
- Securely cover the dish with aluminum foil and place in the preheated oven. Bake for 45 minutes, creating a moist interior.
- Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, allowing the surface to transform into a crispy, golden-brown crust.
- After removing from the oven, allow the casserole to rest and settle for 5-10 minutes, which helps the ingredients set and makes serving easier.
- Slice and serve the hot, cheesy casserole, enjoying the rich blend of textures and flavors.
Notes
- Freeze surplus hash browns in individual portions for quick weeknight meal prep.
- Swap cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom for a vegetarian twist that maintains creamy texture.
- Use low-fat dairy options like Greek yogurt and reduced-fat cheese to create a lighter version without sacrificing flavor.
- Add diced bell peppers or jalapeños for extra crunch and a spicy kick that elevates the classic comfort dish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 24 g
- Saturated Fat: 14 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 9 g
- Cholesterol: 50 mg