This cozy hash brown casserole is filled with crispy hash browns, creamy cheese, and a crunchy topping that makes it oh-so-delicious. Perfect for breakfast or any meal!
Whenever I make it, I want to invite the whole neighborhood! It’s so easy to whip up and always gets compliments. Plus, who can say no to cheese? 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Hash Browns: Frozen shredded hash browns make this dish super convenient. If you have leftover cooked potatoes, you can also use them, just shred and squeeze out any excess moisture.
Onion: Finely chopped onion adds great flavor. If you’re not a fan, leeks or shallots can be used, or even onion powder if you want to skip chopping.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a nice tang. You can swap it with Monterey Jack or a mild cheddar for a different taste, or a dairy-free cheese if needed.
Cream of Chicken Soup: This creates a creamy base. You can replace it with cream of mushroom soup for a lighter flavor, or a homemade version with flour and broth if you prefer to avoid canned items.
Sour Cream: This adds creaminess. Greek yogurt is a great substitute for a healthier option, and it provides similar tanginess.
How Do You Get the Perfect Crispy Top?
To achieve that wonderful, crunchy topping that everyone loves, consider these tips:
- Use melted butter as it helps everything crisp up nicely. Drizzling it on top before baking is key!
- For extra crunch, you can sprinkle some crushed cornflakes or breadcrumbs mixed with cheese on top of the casserole before baking.
- Bake it uncovered. This allows moisture to escape and helps the top get golden and crispy.
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes after you take it out of the oven; this also helps set the layers and makes serving easier!
Grandma’s Hash Brown Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1 (30 oz) package frozen shredded hash browns, thawed
- 1 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
- 1 (8 oz) container sour cream
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 2 cups grated mozzarella cheese (optional for extra cheesiness)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
For Garnish:
- Fresh herbs (like dill or parsley) for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 45 to 55 minutes to bake. Giving it a little time to cool before serving is also a great idea. Overall, you’re looking at about 1 hour, 10 minutes from start to serving!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating up, lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish so your casserole doesn’t stick.
2. Mix All the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed hash browns, chopped onion, cheddar cheese, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, melted butter, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Stir everything together until it’s mixed well. This creamy mixture is what makes the casserole so delicious!
3. Transfer to Baking Dish:
Pour the mixture into the greased baking dish and spread it out evenly. If you’re a cheese lover, now’s the time to sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top for that extra cheesy goodness!
4. Bake the Casserole:
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 45 to 55 minutes. You want the casserole to be hot, bubbly, and a lovely golden brown on top. The smell will be irresistible!
5. Let It Cool:
Once baked, carefully remove the casserole from the oven. Allow it to sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps the layers set a little bit and makes it easier to serve.
6. Garnish and Serve:
If you’d like, sprinkle some fresh herbs like dill or parsley on top for a pop of color and flavor. Serve warm and enjoy this comforting dish that everyone will love!
This classic, creamy hash brown casserole with a crispy cheesy top is not just a meal; it’s a warm hug from grandma’s kitchen that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Can I Use Fresh Potatoes Instead of Frozen Hash Browns?
Yes, you can use fresh potatoes! Just peel and shred them, then soak in cold water for about 30 minutes to remove excess starch. After draining, make sure to squeeze out as much moisture as possible to avoid a soggy casserole.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole the night before, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it. Just bake it straight from the fridge, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if needed.
What Can I Substitute for Cream of Chicken Soup?
If you’re looking for an alternative, you can use cream of mushroom soup or a homemade creamy mixture made with broth, milk, and a little flour. This will keep the dish creamy without relying on canned soup!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or oven until heated through. You can also add a splash of milk to keep it moist while reheating!
