Description
This Cheesy Hash Brown Casserole is a creamy, comforting side dish featuring shredded hash browns baked in a delightful mixture of cream of chicken soup, sour cream, sharp cheddar cheese, and savory spices, all topped with a crunchy cornflake or cracker crumb topping. Perfect for holidays or any gathering, this easy casserole pairs wonderfully with breakfast, brunch, or dinner meals.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 (30 oz) bag frozen shredded hash browns, thawed
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
Topping (Optional)
- 1 cup crushed cornflakes or buttery cracker crumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Mix Base Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, melted butter, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and finely chopped onion. Stir these together until incorporated.
- Add Cheese and Hash Browns: Stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese evenly, then gently fold in the thawed shredded hash browns until the mixture is well combined, creating the creamy casserole base.
- Assemble Casserole: Spread the hash brown mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top for an even layer.
- Add Topping: If using, mix the crushed cornflakes or cracker crumbs with the 2 tablespoons of melted butter, then sprinkle this topping evenly over the casserole surface to add a crunchy texture after baking.
- Bake: Place the casserole uncovered in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the casserole is hot, bubbly, and the top has turned a golden brown color.
- Rest and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the casserole sit for 5 minutes to set before cutting into squares and serving.
Notes
- To make it a heartier meal, add cooked bacon, diced ham, or chopped cooked chicken into the mixture before baking.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute the cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom soup.
