Hash brown casserole is a beloved classic, particularly in the heart of the Midwest, where comfort food reigns supreme. This oven-baked cheesy hash brown casserole is a perfect blend of crispy, creamy, and cheesy goodness. It's a dish often found at family gatherings and potlucks, celebrated for its ability to please a crowd with minimal effort. By combining simple ingredients like potatoes, cheese, and a creamy sauce, this casserole becomes a rich and satisfying meal. Perfect for brunch, dinner, or as a side dish, this recipe is a testament to the beauty of uncomplicated cooking that still delivers on flavor.
This cheesy hash brown casserole pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. For a hearty breakfast or brunch, consider serving it alongside scrambled eggs and crispy bacon or sausage. If you're thinking about dinner, a fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or a side of steamed vegetables would balance the richness of the casserole beautifully. Additionally, a warm, crusty bread could be a delightful accompaniment, perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
Oven Baked Cheesy Hash Brown CasseroleServings: 6 to 8 servings
Ingredients
1 package (30 ounces) frozen shredded hash browns, thawed
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 can (10.5 ounces) condensed cream of chicken soup
1 cup sour cream
1/2 cup melted butter
1 small onion, finely chopped
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Directions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large bowl, mix together the thawed hash browns, 1 1/2 cups of cheddar cheese, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, melted butter, chopped onion, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
Transfer the mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese on top of the casserole.
Bake in the preheated oven for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving, if desired.
Variations & Tips
For a delightful twist, consider adding cooked bacon or sausage crumbles to the mixture for an extra layer of flavor. You can also incorporate a cup of diced bell peppers or mushrooms for added texture and nutrition. If you prefer a spicy kick, try mixing in a diced jalapeño or a dash of cayenne pepper. For a lighter version, use reduced-fat sour cream and cheese. This casserole is versatile enough to experiment with different cheeses, such as Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack, to suit your taste.
