Hashbrown Casserole

The first time I made Hashbrown Casserole, it was a chilly winter evening, and I was craving something warm and hearty. As I rummaged through my freezer, I stumbled upon a bag of frozen hashbrowns, and an idea sparked. I remembered my grandmother’s comforting casserole, filled with creamy goodness and melted cheese. This dish quickly became a family favorite, and I found myself making it for gatherings, potlucks, and those cozy nights in. It’s not just a meal; it’s a nostalgia-filled comfort food that brings everyone together, filling the home with delicious aromas that make you feel instantly at home. Whenever we gather around the table, this Hashbrown Casserole is sure to steal the show, warming hearts and filling bellies with its rich, cheesy goodness.

Ingredients to Make Hashbrown Casserole

The ingredients for Hashbrown Casserole come together to create a delightful dish that perfectly balances creaminess and flavor. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in contributing to the overall taste and texture, making it comfort food at its finest. Let’s explore these key players:

• 30 oz Frozen Shredded Hashbrown Potatoes: These form the base of our casserole, providing a hearty, starchy foundation.
• 2 tsp Onion Powder: Adds a savory depth of flavor without the hassle of chopping onions.
• 1/2 tsp Dried Thyme (optional): This herb gives the dish a lovely aromatic note that complements the creamy elements.
• 1/2 tsp Salt: Essential for enhancing the flavors of all the ingredients.
• 1/2 tsp Pepper: A pinch of pepper adds a subtle kick to balance the richness of the cheese.
• 2 cups Cheddar Cheese, shredded: The star of the dish, melting beautifully and adding that comforting cheesy goodness.
• 1/2 cup Butter: Adds richness and helps to bind the flavors together.
• 10.75 oz Cream of Chicken Soup, canned: This creamy base is what makes the casserole luscious and decadent.
• 1 cup Sour Cream: Adds tanginess and creaminess, elevating the overall texture of the dish.

How to Assemble Hashbrown Casserole

Assembling Hashbrown Casserole is a straightforward process that anyone can master. Follow along as we take each step to ensure that your casserole comes out perfectly every time:

1. Preheat your oven to 350° Fahrenheit. This ensures that your casserole cooks evenly and thoroughly. While the oven is heating, take a moment to spray a 13×9 baking dish with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. In a large bowl, combine the frozen shredded hashbrowns, onion powder, dried thyme (if using), salt, pepper, and 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until everything is well mixed. Make sure the hashbrowns are evenly coated with the spices and cheese for full flavor.
3. In a medium saucepan, add the butter and cream of chicken soup. Heat over medium-high heat, stirring until the butter melts. This mixture will add a creamy texture that is vital for the casserole.
4. Once the butter has melted, take the saucepan off the heat and stir in the sour cream. This step is crucial as it adds that luscious, creamy quality to your casserole.
5. Now, pour the creamy mixture over the hash brown mixture in the large bowl. Use a spatula to mix everything together until it’s well combined. You want every bite to be flavorful and creamy!
6. Transfer the combined mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly, ensuring that it fills the dish without leaving any gaps.
7. Top the casserole with the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. This will create a delicious cheesy crust as it bakes.
8. Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 1 hour. Keep an eye on the casserole; it should be hot and bubbly when done. The cheese should be golden and slightly crispy.
9. Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This will help the casserole set up a bit, making it easier to cut into portions.
10. Serve immediately and enjoy the comforting flavors of Hashbrown Casserole with your loved ones!

Variations to Try

If you’re looking to mix things up, here are some fun variations to try with your Hashbrown Casserole:

• Cheesy Veggie Version: Add a cup of steamed broccoli or spinach for extra color and nutrition.
• Meat Lovers: Incorporate cooked diced chicken or crumbled sausage for a heartier dish.
• Spicy Kick: Toss in some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for a bit of heat.
• Herbed Up: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or oregano for a fresh flavor profile.
• Breakfast Twist: Serve it alongside eggs for a fun breakfast option, or even add beaten eggs into the mix before baking.
• Garnish: Top with fresh herbs like chives or parsley for a pop of freshness before serving.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days, and reheat in the oven or microwave.

Side Dish Ideas for Hashbrown Casserole

When it comes to serving Hashbrown Casserole, the options are endless! Here are some scrumptious ideas to consider:

• Scrambled Eggs: Pair the casserole with fluffy scrambled eggs for a filling breakfast or brunch option.
• Fresh Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad can balance the richness of the casserole nicely.
• Green Salad: Serve with a simple green salad dressed in vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
• Steamed Veggies: Broccoli, green beans, or carrots can add a healthy side to your meal.
• Grilled Chicken: For those craving protein, grilled chicken makes an excellent companion to this dish.
• Seasonal Pairings: In winter, consider serving with roasted Brussels sprouts or winter squashes for a hearty meal.
• Occasion Ideas: Perfect for holidays, potlucks, and family gatherings—this casserole is versatile enough for any occasion!

FAQ

Conclusion

The Hashbrown Casserole is more than just a dish; it’s a heartwarming recipe that brings comfort and joy to any meal. Its creamy texture and savory flavors make it a true family favorite. I encourage you to try this recipe and witness how it can become a staple in your home, too. Gather your loved ones, serve a warm plate, and enjoy the delightful moments that follow.

Hashbrown Casserole

The ultimate comfort food, Hashbrown Casserole is creamy, cheesy, and perfect for any gathering. This easy dish combines frozen hashbrowns, rich cheese, and savory flavors into a delightful casserole that makes for a satisfying meal. Whip it up tonight and enjoy its heartwarming goodness!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr

Total Time 1 hour hr 10 minutes mins

Course Dinner, Side Dishes

Cuisine American

Servings 8 servings

Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

• Mixing Bowl
• Baking Sheet
• Wooden Spoon
• Frying Pan
• Oven

Ingredients

  

• 30 oz Frozen Shredded Hashbrown Potatoes
• 2 tsp Onion Powder
• 1/2 tsp Dried Thyme optional
• 1/2 tsp Salt
• 1/2 tsp Pepper
• 2 cups Cheddar Cheese shredded
• 1/2 cup Butter
• 10.75 oz Cream of Chicken Soup canned
• 1 cup Sour Cream

Instructions

 

• Preheat your oven to 350° Fahrenheit. This ensures that your casserole cooks evenly and thoroughly. While the oven is heating, take a moment to spray a 13×9 baking dish with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
• In a large bowl, combine the frozen shredded hashbrowns, onion powder, dried thyme (if using), salt, pepper, and 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until everything is well mixed. Make sure the hashbrowns are evenly coated with the spices and cheese for full flavor.
• In a medium saucepan, add the butter and cream of chicken soup. Heat over medium-high heat, stirring until the butter melts. This mixture will add a creamy texture that is vital for the casserole.
• Once the butter has melted, take the saucepan off the heat and stir in the sour cream. This step is crucial as it adds that luscious, creamy quality to your casserole.
• Now, pour the creamy mixture over the hash brown mixture in the large bowl. Use a spatula to mix everything together until it’s well combined. You want every bite to be flavorful and creamy!
• Transfer the combined mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly, ensuring that it fills the dish without leaving any gaps.
• Top the casserole with the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. This will create a delicious cheesy crust as it bakes.
• Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 1 hour. Keep an eye on the casserole; it should be hot and bubbly when done. The cheese should be golden and slightly crispy.
• Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This will help the casserole set up a bit, making it easier to cut into portions.
• Serve immediately and enjoy the comforting flavors of Hashbrown Casserole with your loved ones!

Notes

If you’re looking to mix things up, here are some fun variations to try with your Hashbrown Casserole:

• Cheesy Veggie Version: Add a cup of steamed broccoli or spinach for extra color and nutrition.
• Meat Lovers: Incorporate cooked diced chicken or crumbled sausage for a heartier dish.
• Spicy Kick: Toss in some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for a bit of heat.
• Herbed Up: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or oregano for a fresh flavor profile.
• Breakfast Twist: Serve it alongside eggs for a fun breakfast option, or even add beaten eggs into the mix before baking.
• Garnish: Top with fresh herbs like chives or parsley for a pop of freshness before serving.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days, and reheat in the oven or microwave.

Keyword cheesy potato dish, comfort food, Easy Casserole Recipe, Hashbrown Casserole

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Meet Penny Porter

I bring the energy to our cooking sessions. I don’t have a “specialty” because I love it all I’m just as happy kneading dough as I am stirring a spicy curry. My favorite part of being on this team is the variety. One day we’re making pasta from scratch, and the next we’re grilling outdoors. I love the fast-paced creative process and am always the first one to grab an apron when a new idea pops up.