If you're searching for a mouthwatering dish that combines crispy comfort with cheesy goodness, look no further than this Hash Brown Cheese Bake! Perfectly golden and delightfully creamy, this American classic is sure to impress your family and friends at any gathering. With just a handful of simple ingredients and a little bit of time, you can create a dish that is not only satisfying but also irresistibly delicious. Whether served as a hearty breakfast or a savory side dish, this recipe will have everyone coming back for seconds. Ready to elevate your meal game? Let’s dive into the details!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 package (30 oz) frozen hash browns
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish thoroughly with butter or non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Remove the frozen hash browns from the package and let them thaw slightly at room temperature for about 10 minutes. This will help them mix more easily with other ingredients.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the partially thawed hash browns, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, melted butter, chopped green onions, salt, and pepper. Mix all ingredients thoroughly until the hash browns are evenly coated.
- Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula to ensure uniform cooking and consistent texture.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. The top should become golden brown and crispy, with the edges slightly darker and crunchy.
- Remove from the oven and let the dish rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows the casserole to set and makes it easier to serve.
- Garnish with additional chopped green onions if desired, and serve hot as a side dish or breakfast casserole.
Tips
- Thawing the Hash Browns: Allowing the frozen hash browns to thaw for about 10 minutes at room temperature will help them mix more easily with the other ingredients, ensuring a better texture in the final bake.
- Greasing the Dish: Don’t skimp on greasing the baking dish! A generous layer of butter or non-stick spray will prevent sticking and make serving a breeze.
- Mixing Ingredients: Make sure to mix the ingredients thoroughly in the bowl. This ensures that every bite is packed with flavor and that the hash browns are evenly coated with the creamy mixture.
- Baking Time: Keep an eye on the baking time. Ovens can vary, so check for that beautiful golden brown color on top. If the edges are getting too dark before the center is set, you can cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning.
- Resting Time: Let the dish rest for 5-10 minutes after baking. This resting period allows the casserole to firm up, making it easier to cut and serve.
- Garnishing: For an extra pop of flavor and color, garnish with additional chopped green onions before serving. It adds freshness and a beautiful presentation!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 18g
Cholesterol: 85mg
