Description
This Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole is a comforting and creamy side dish perfect for family gatherings or potlucks. Made with tender shredded hashbrowns, sharp cheddar cheese, and a rich blend of cream of chicken soup and sour cream, it bakes to a golden bubbly perfection, topped with crispy cornflakes or breadcrumbs for added texture.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 (30 oz) bag frozen shredded hash browns, thawed
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional Topping
- 1 cup crushed cornflakes or buttered breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure the casserole doesn’t stick during baking.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the thawed shredded hash browns, shredded cheddar cheese, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, melted unsalted butter, chopped onion, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. These mix together to create the creamy base of the casserole.
- Mix Thoroughly: Stir all the ingredients well until they are evenly combined, ensuring a consistent flavor throughout the casserole.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Spread the hashbrown mixture evenly into the prepared 9×13-inch baking dish for uniform cooking.
- Add Topping: If desired, sprinkle crushed cornflakes or buttered breadcrumbs evenly over the top to add a crunchy texture after baking.
- Bake: Bake the casserole uncovered in the preheated oven for 45–50 minutes. It should be hot and bubbly with a golden brown top when done.
- Rest and Serve: Allow the casserole to rest for 5–10 minutes out of the oven. This helps it set and makes serving easier and more enjoyable.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, substitute the cream of chicken soup with a cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup.
- Make sure to thaw the hash browns completely for even cooking and to prevent excess water in the casserole.
- The topping is optional but adds a delightful crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with the creamy casserole.
- Can be prepared a day ahead and refrigerated; bake slightly longer if baking from cold.
- Try adding diced cooked bacon or green onions for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
