Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—creamy, cheesy, and loaded with tender hashbrowns. This crowd-pleasing side dish is perfect for breakfast, brunch, potlucks, or holiday gatherings. Its rich flavor and satisfying texture make it a staple in many homes, and it’s incredibly easy to prepare using simple pantry ingredients.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

frozen hashbrowns (shredded or diced)sour creamcream of chicken soupshredded cheddar cheeseonion (chopped)buttermeltonsaltpeppergarlic powder (optional)crushed cornflakes or breadcrumbs (for topping)

directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, cream of chicken soup, melted butter, chopped onion, salt, pepper, and garlic powder if using.

Stir in the frozen hashbrowns and 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese until everything is evenly mixed.

Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.

Top with additional shredded cheese and a layer of crushed cornflakes or breadcrumbs for a crunchy topping.

Bake uncovered for 45-55 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown.

Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 8-10 servings.Preparation time: 10 minutesBaking time: 45-55 minutesCooling time: 5-10 minutesTotal time: 60-70 minutes

Variations

Use cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup for a vegetarian version.

Add cooked bacon or diced ham for a heartier dish.

Stir in chopped green chilies or jalapeños for a spicy kick.

Top with crushed Ritz crackers or seasoned panko instead of cornflakes.

Add green onions or fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.Casserole can be frozen before or after baking for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hashbrowns?

Yes, peel and shred potatoes, then soak and dry them thoroughly before using.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the casserole and refrigerate it overnight. Bake when ready to serve.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free cream soup and topping to make it gluten-free.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely, try Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or pepper jack for variation.

Why is my casserole watery?

Excess moisture from thawed hashbrowns or overmixing can cause this—drain well and mix gently.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, but use two baking dishes to ensure even cooking.

What’s the best topping for crunch?

Crushed cornflakes, Ritz crackers, or panko all work well for a crispy finish.

Can I skip the topping?

Yes, though it adds a nice texture, it’s optional.

Is it okay to bake without thawing the hashbrowns?

Yes, just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Can I use low-fat ingredients?

Yes, but the texture and flavor may be slightly different.

Conclusion

Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole is a comforting classic that’s easy to make and impossible to resist. Whether served at breakfast, dinner, or any gathering, its rich, creamy texture and cheesy flavor make it a reliable favorite. Try it once, and it’s sure to become a regular in your recipe rotation.