This Cheesy Hash Brown Casserole is creamy, golden, and loaded with flavor — a true comfort food classic! Made with frozen hash browns, sour cream, and melted cheddar cheese, it’s the perfect side dish for holidays, potlucks, family dinners, or brunch gatherings. The creamy interior and crispy, buttery topping make it absolutely irresistible.
Who Is This Recipe For?
This recipe is perfect for:
- 🧑🍳 Home cooks who want a no-fail, crowd-pleasing side dish.
- 🥔 Potato lovers who can’t resist creamy, cheesy comfort food.
- 🕒 Busy hosts who need a make-ahead casserole that feeds a crowd.
- 👨👩👧 Families looking for a cozy dish everyone will enjoy.
Why It’s Great
- Quick and easy: Uses frozen hash browns and simple pantry staples.
- Ultra creamy: The combination of sour cream and condensed soup makes every bite rich and smooth.
- Perfectly cheesy: Loaded with melted cheddar for the ultimate flavor boost.
- Customizable: Add ham, bacon, or green onions to make it your own.
- Ideal for gatherings: Feeds a large group and reheats beautifully.
Ingredients
- 1 (32 oz) package frozen shredded hash browns, thawed
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 (10.5 oz) can condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 (8 oz) container sour cream
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 2 cups crushed cornflakes (optional, for topping)
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
2. Mix the Casserole Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine melted butter, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, onion, cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper.
Add the thawed hash browns and stir until everything is evenly coated.
3. Assemble
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
4. Add the Topping (Optional)
If using cornflakes, toss them with a tablespoon of melted butter and sprinkle evenly over the top for a crunchy golden crust.
5. Bake
Bake uncovered for 45–50 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is lightly browned.
6. Serve
Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Serve warm and enjoy that cheesy, creamy perfection!
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Large mixing bowl
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Oven mitts
Storage
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze unbaked casserole (without topping) for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before baking.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven at 325°F (160°C) until heated through for best texture.
FAQ
1. Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?
Yes! Grate and squeeze out excess moisture from fresh potatoes before mixing.
2. Can I substitute cream of chicken soup?
You can use cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup for a vegetarian option.
3. Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the casserole up to 24 hours ahead and bake just before serving.
4. How can I make it extra crispy on top?
Add crushed Ritz crackers or Panko breadcrumbs instead of cornflakes for a crispier crust.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Hash Brown Casserole is the ultimate comfort side dish — creamy inside, crispy on top, and bursting with cheesy flavor. Whether you’re serving it with breakfast, a Sunday roast, or holiday dinner, it’s guaranteed to be a hit at any table. Simple, satisfying, and foolproof, this recipe is one you’ll come back to again and again. 🥔🧀
