Hashbrown Casserole

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Golden, cheesy, and utterly comforting—Hashbrown Casserole is the kind of dish that brings people together around the table. Whether you’re feeding a crowd for brunch, planning an easy weeknight dinner, or looking for a cozy side dish, this casserole delivers. Its crispy top layer, creamy center, and rich flavor make every bite memorable.

This recipe combines shredded hashbrowns with a velvety cheese sauce, a hint of onion, and the perfect blend of seasonings. The result is a hearty, indulgent dish that’s easy to whip up and impossible to resist. It’s ideal for holidays, potlucks, or simply when you’re craving comfort food with minimal fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Hashbrown Casserole

This Hashbrown Casserole is the ultimate crowd-pleaser. It’s made with simple pantry ingredients, comes together quickly, and bakes into a bubbly, golden masterpiece. It can be prepped ahead, travels well, and reheats like a dream—making it perfect for meal planning. Plus, it’s versatile: serve it as a breakfast main, a dinner side, or even a midnight snack!

What Kind of Hashbrowns Should I Use?

You can use frozen, refrigerated, or freshly grated potatoes for this recipe. Frozen hashbrowns (thawed) are the most convenient and widely used option—they hold their shape well and save you time. Just make sure they’re fully defrosted and drained before mixing to avoid excess moisture. If you prefer a more rustic texture, shredding fresh potatoes will give you a heartier feel, though it takes more prep time.

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Ingredients for the Hashbrown Casserole

Each ingredient in this casserole plays a key role in creating that warm, cheesy, perfectly textured bite. Here’s what you’ll need and why:

• Shredded Hashbrowns – The base of the casserole, giving it structure and hearty texture.
• Cheddar Cheese – Adds melty, gooey richness and sharp flavor throughout.
• Sour Cream – Brings creaminess and a subtle tang that balances the richness.
• Cream of Chicken Soup – A classic binding agent that adds depth and a velvety feel.
• Butter – Provides moisture and helps develop that golden, crispy top.
• Onion – Adds savory depth and a bit of crunch.
• Garlic Powder – Enhances the flavor without overpowering the dish.
• Salt & Pepper – Basic seasonings to bring all the flavors together.
• Parmesan Cheese (optional) – For an extra cheesy, slightly salty finish on top.

How To Make the Hashbrown Casserole

This dish is simple to throw together, making it a great option even on busy days. Here’s how to build your perfect hashbrown casserole:

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.

Step 2: Mix the Base

In a large bowl, combine the thawed hashbrowns, cheddar cheese, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, diced onion, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is evenly mixed.

Step 3: Add the Butter

Melt the butter and pour it into the mixture. Stir thoroughly to distribute the buttery richness throughout the dish.

Step 4: Transfer to Baking Dish

Spoon the mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. For a crispier top, press it down lightly.

Step 5: Top and Bake

Sprinkle a layer of shredded cheddar or Parmesan (if using) over the top. Bake uncovered for 45–50 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.

Step 6: Cool Slightly and Serve

Let the casserole cool for 5–10 minutes before slicing. This helps it set and makes serving easier.

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How to Serve and Store Hashbrown Casserole

This Hashbrown Casserole feeds around 8–10 people, making it perfect for brunch gatherings, potlucks, or family dinners. Serve it warm straight from the oven, cut into hearty squares or spooned onto plates. It’s filling enough to stand alone or pair beautifully with protein or veggies.

To store leftovers, allow the casserole to cool completely before covering with foil or transferring to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm in the oven at 325°F until heated through, or microwave individual portions.

You can also freeze this casserole. Wrap it tightly before baking or after it has cooled completely. It can be frozen for up to 2 months—just thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as needed.

What to Serve With Hashbrown Casserole?

This dish is rich and comforting, so it’s best balanced with lighter or contrasting sides. Here are a few favorites:

Scrambled or Fried Eggs

A classic breakfast combo that adds protein and balances the richness.

Crisp Green Salad

Fresh greens with a tangy vinaigrette help cut through the creaminess.

Grilled Sausage or Bacon

Smoky, savory meats make an excellent pairing and boost the hearty factor.

Roasted Vegetables

Try roasted asparagus, carrots, or Brussels sprouts for a wholesome contrast.

Fresh Fruit Salad

The natural sweetness and acidity of fresh fruit offer a refreshing balance.

Buttermilk Biscuits

If you’re serving this for brunch, fluffy biscuits are the ultimate companion.

Tomato Soup

A comforting, tangy soup balances the richness of the casserole beautifully.

Sautéed Spinach or Kale

These greens add nutrients and a slight bitterness that complement the dish well.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make Hashbrown Casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can fully assemble the casserole and refrigerate it (unbaked) for up to 24 hours. Just cover it tightly with foil and bake when ready. It’s a great time-saver for holidays and brunches.

2. Can I make it vegetarian?
Absolutely. Just swap the cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup. Both offer great flavor without the meat.

3. Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hashbrowns?
Yes, just peel and grate about 6 medium-sized potatoes. Be sure to squeeze out as much moisture as possible using a clean towel to avoid a watery casserole.

4. How do I get a crispier top?
Sprinkle extra cheese and a light layer of breadcrumbs on top before baking. Bake uncovered and broil for the last 2–3 minutes for added crispiness.

5. Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. Wrap individual portions tightly in foil or place them in freezer-safe containers. Reheat in the oven or microwave when ready to enjoy.

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest brunch or comfort food board so you can come back to it any time.
And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add green onions or extra spice? Maybe a meat like ham or bacon?
I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter.
For more daily recipes and comfort food favorites, check out my Pinterest: Life With Livia on Pinterest.

Conclusion

This Hashbrown Casserole checks all the boxes: it’s easy, cheesy, cozy, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, feeding a family, or meal-prepping for the week, it’s a go-to comfort food that never disappoints. Try it once, and it’s bound to become a favorite in your rotation.

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