Get ready to experience the ultimate comfort food that will transport you straight to grandma's kitchen! This legendary Hash Brown Casserole is not just a side dish – it's a creamy, cheesy masterpiece that has been delighting families for generations. Whether you're hosting a weekend brunch, planning a potluck, or simply craving something incredibly delicious, this recipe is about to become your new go-to crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 60 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 2 pounds frozen hash browns
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup onion, chopped
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and thoroughly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed hash browns, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, chopped onions, and 1 1/2 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper, adjusting to your taste preferences. Stir to distribute the seasonings evenly throughout the casserole mixture.
- Pour the melted butter over the hash brown mixture and gently fold to ensure the butter is distributed throughout the casserole.
- Transfer the entire mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula to create a smooth, consistent layer.
- Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole for an extra cheesy golden crust.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are crispy.
- Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow it to set and cool slightly.
- Serve hot as a delicious side dish or brunch item, garnishing with fresh chopped parsley if desired.
Tips
- For maximum flavor, ensure your hash browns are completely thawed and excess moisture is removed to prevent a soggy casserole.
- Use freshly shredded cheddar cheese instead of pre-packaged for a more robust, melty texture.
- Feel free to customize by adding crispy bacon bits, diced ham, or green onions for extra flavor complexity.
- Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes after baking to help it set and make serving easier.
- For a crispy top, consider adding a layer of crushed cornflakes or breadcrumbs before the final cheese sprinkle.
- This casserole reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep or leftover enjoyment.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 26g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Cholesterol: 65mg
