This hash brown casserole is the ultimate comfort food, bringing together crispy potatoes, creamy cheese, and savory seasonings. It’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a cozy dinner. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just craving some deliciousness, this dish is sure to satisfy. Let’s dive into the recipe!
Ingredients
– 1 (30 oz) package frozen hash browns
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup sour cream
– 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
– 1/2 cup melted butter
– 1 small onion, diced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1 cup diced ham or cooked bacon
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes approximately 8 servings. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, with a cooking time of 45 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/8 of the casserole) contains approximately 280 calories, 15g fat, 25g carbohydrates, and 7g protein. This is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the frozen hash browns, melted butter, and diced onion.
3. In another bowl, mix the sour cream and cream of chicken soup until smooth.
4. Stir the sour cream mixture into the hash brown mixture.
5. Add salt and pepper to taste, and mix in the shredded cheddar cheese.
6. If using, fold in the diced ham or bacon.
7. Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
8. Spread it evenly across the dish with a spatula.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, or until golden brown on top.
10. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute frozen hash browns with fresh grated potatoes if you prefer. Additionally, swap sour cream for Greek yogurt for a healthier option, and use any cheese variety you like for different flavors.
Serving and Pairings
This hash brown casserole pairs wonderfully with scrambled eggs, a fresh green salad, or even a side of fruit for a balanced meal. It’s also great alongside breakfast meats like sausage or bacon.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover hash brown casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or in the microwave for a quicker option. This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months; just make sure to let it cool completely before freezing.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t skip greasing the baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Ensure the hash browns are thawed if using fresh ingredients.
- Don’t overbake, as it can dry out the casserole.
- Mix ingredients thoroughly to ensure even cooking.
- Adjust seasoning to your taste before baking.
Helpful Tips
- Let the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving for easier slicing.
- Experiment with different cheeses for unique flavors.
- Add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition.
- Use leftover roasted potatoes for a quicker prep.
FAQs
Can I make hash brown casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Just assemble it, cover, and refrigerate until ready to bake. This allows the flavors to meld together even more.
Is this dish suitable for freezing?
Absolutely! Once cooled, you can freeze the casserole for up to 2 months. Just reheat it properly after thawing for the best texture.
What can I use instead of cream of chicken soup?
If you’re looking for a substitute, use cream of mushroom soup or a homemade white sauce. This can cater to dietary restrictions or preferences.
How can I make it spicier?
To add some heat, include diced jalapeños or sprinkle red pepper flakes into the mixture before baking. This will give it a nice kick!
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh grated potatoes can be used. Just ensure they’re well-drained to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.
Conclusion
In conclusion, this hash brown casserole is a versatile and delicious dish that can be enjoyed any time of day. With its creamy texture and crispy topping, it’s sure to be a hit at your table. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the comforting flavors it brings to your meals!
Hash Brown Casserole
Ingredients
- 1 30 oz package frozen hash browns
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 can 10.5 oz cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 1 small onion diced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 cup diced ham or cooked bacon
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the frozen hash browns, melted butter, and diced onion.
- In another bowl, mix the sour cream and cream of chicken soup until smooth.
- Stir the sour cream mixture into the hash brown mixture.
- Add salt and pepper to taste, and mix in the shredded cheddar cheese.
- If using, fold in the diced ham or bacon.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Spread it evenly across the dish with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, or until golden brown on top.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Nutrition
