Easy Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole

Recipe Introduction

Ever have those days where you just crave something utterly comforting? Maybe something like your grandma used to make ? Well, buckle up, buttercup, because this easy hashbrown casserole recipe is about to become your new best friend.

Honestly, it's like a warm hug in a dish.

Quick Hook

Need a simple side? Want to impress? This recipe’s for you. This easy hashbrown casserole brings cheesy, potato-y bliss to any table. It's got that ultimate comfort food flavor profile.

Brief Overview

This casserole is a nod to classic Southern cooking, often found at potlucks and holiday gatherings. This easy potato casserole takes about an hour from start to finish.

It makes about 8-10 servings, perfect for sharing… or not!

Main Benefits

One of the best things about this is how filling it is. It's packed with energy and oh-so-satisfying. This is an amazing dish for potlucks or holiday brunches.

Honestly, the simplicity is what makes it truly special. This homemade hashbrown casserole will impress all guests.

Ready to find out what you will need? Let's dive in.

What you'll need: Ingredients for your masterpiece

You probably have most of these items! We will start with the basics. Don't worry, this cheesy hashbrown casserole recipe is super adaptable. You can make it your own with slight twists.

• 30 oz frozen shredded hash browns, thawed
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
• 1 (10.75 oz) can condensed cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives or green onions

Trust me, you won’t be sorry you gave this a try. This comfort food casserole hits the spot every time.

Plus, the recipe for hashbrown casserole with cream of chicken soup is a breeze.

Ingredients & Equipment: Let's Get This Show on the Road!

Alright, let's talk about what you need to whip up this easy hashbrown casserole . Honestly, it's so simple, even I can't mess it up! This cheesy hashbrown casserole recipe is all about the basics, making it a comfort food casserole superstar.

Main Ingredients: The Building Blocks of Deliciousness

• 30 oz (850g) frozen shredded hash browns , thawed. This is key! Nobody wants a watery casserole. Thaw them well and pat them dry.
• 1/2 cup (1 stick/113g) unsalted butter , melted. Go for good quality butter. It makes a difference!
• 1 medium yellow onion , finely chopped. About a cup's worth.
• 1 (10.75 oz/305g) can condensed cream of chicken soup . Yep, we're going there. It's the secret ingredient for that creamy texture.
• 1 cup (240ml) sour cream . Full fat is where it's at!
• 1/2 cup (120ml) milk . Any kind will do, really.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder . Don't skip this!
• 1/2 teaspoon salt . Taste as you go!
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper . Freshly ground is always better, you know?
• 2 cups (225g) shredded cheddar cheese , divided. Reserve 1/2 cup for topping. Get a good sharp cheddar.
• Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives or green onions , for garnish. Makes it look fancy!

Looking for that Cracker Barrel hashbrown casserole copycat flavor? The cheese is your friend! Also you can use 6 medium russet potatoes, peeled and shredded, instead frozen hash browns.

Seasoning Notes: Flavor Bombs Away!

For that perfect hashbrown casserole with cream of chicken soup flavor, garlic powder is essential. It adds warmth and depth.

A little salt and pepper go a long way. Want to spice things up? A pinch of cayenne pepper works wonders.

For more hashbrown casserole variations , think about adding a little onion powder.

Quick substitution? Greek yogurt works in a pinch instead of sour cream. It will slightly alter the flavor.

Equipment Needed: Keep It Simple, Silly!

• 9x13 inch (23x33 cm) baking dish. This is the heart of our easy potato casserole .
• Large mixing bowl.
• Measuring cups and spoons. Obvs.
• Wooden spoon or spatula.
• Optional: Potato ricer (if using fresh potatoes).

Honestly, you don't need anything fancy to make this homemade hashbrown casserole . If you don't have a fancy spatula, a spoon works just fine!

And that's it! Let's get cooking this breakfast casserole recipe easy !

Cooking Method: Let's Make Easy Hashbrown Casserole!

Oh my gosh, you need this easy hashbrown casserole in your life. Seriously. It's the kind of comfort food casserole that makes you feel all warm and fuzzy inside.

I used to think making it was complicated, but honestly? It's a piece of cake. Well, a piece of casserole .

Prep Steps: The Mise en Place is KEY

Before we even think about turning on the oven, let's get organised. This easy potato casserole recipe is so much easier when you've got everything ready.

First, make sure your 30 oz (850g) of frozen hash browns are thawed . Nobody wants an icy surprise. Next, finely chop 1 medium yellow onion .

I sometimes cheat and use my food processor but don't tell anyone!. Melt 1/2 cup (1 stick/113g) of unsalted butter .

Finally, grate 2 cups (225g) of cheddar cheese , divided. Keep half a cup separate for the topping. Boom. You're ready!

step-by-step: From Bowl to Oven

Okay, here's the magic. It's super simple, trust me!

1. Preheat your oven to 350° F ( 175° C) and grease your 9x13 inch baking dish .
2. Sauté your chopped onion in the melted butter until soft. About 5- 7 minutes .
3. In a large bowl, combine the sautéed onion and melted butter , thawed hash browns , 1 (10.75 oz/305g) can of cream of chicken soup , 1 cup (240ml) of sour cream , 1/2 cup (120ml) of milk , 1 teaspoon of garlic powder , 1/2 teaspoon of salt , 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper , and 1 1/2 cups of the cheddar cheese . Mix it all together.
4. Pour the mixture into your baking dish.
5. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese on top.
6. Bake for 40- 45 minutes , until it is golden brown and bubbly.

Pro Tips: Secrets to Casserole Success

Want to take your cheesy hashbrown casserole recipe to the next level? Here's how! A big mistake is not thawing the hash browns .

Another one is using pre-shredded cheese because it does not melt as well. For a killer Cracker Barrel hashbrown casserole copycat experience, add a crispy topping of crushed cornflakes mixed with melted butter before baking.

I swear, it's a game changer. You can even make this make-ahead hashbrown casserole the day before, adding 10- 15 minutes to the baking time.

Talk about an easy breakfast casserole recipe easy !

Honestly, this is one of those recipes that's hard to mess up. Whether you're bringing it to a potluck or just craving some serious comfort food casserole , this easy hashbrown casserole always delivers.

Enjoy!

Recipe Notes

Alright, let's talk about the nitty gritty of this amazing easy hashbrown casserole. Honestly, it's so straightforward, but a few extra tips can really elevate it from good to amazing .

I've made this cheesy hashbrown casserole recipe more times than I can count, so trust me on these!

Serving Suggestions That Wow

Okay, so you've got this gorgeous, bubbly comfort food casserole . Now what? Presentation is key, my friend! I love serving this family style, right from the baking dish.

Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh chives or green onions it adds a pop of color and freshness.

For a fancy brunch, try plating individual servings with a dollop of sour cream and a crispy piece of bacon.

As for sides, think simple: a light green salad, some sliced ham, or even breakfast sausages. And don't forget the beverages! Coffee or mimosas are always a winner.

Storage Secrets

Got leftovers? Lucky you! This make-ahead hashbrown casserole is just as good the next day.

Refrigeration Guidelines: Simply cover the casserole tightly with foil or plastic wrap and pop it in the fridge. It'll keep for about 3-4 days.

Freezing Options: Yes, you can freeze it! Let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil.

It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Reheating Instructions: Thaw it in the fridge overnight. Then, bake it in a preheated oven at 350° F ( 175° C) until heated through and bubbly.

This easy potato casserole reheats like a dream.

Hashbrown Casserole Variations

Want to shake things up? Let's do it! One of my favorite ways to jazz up this recipe is to add a little spice.

A dash of cayenne pepper or some red pepper flakes will give it a nice kick.

For a vegetarian version, swap out the cream of chicken soup for cream of mushroom soup. Easy peasy! And if you're looking for seasonal ingredient swaps, try adding roasted butternut squash or sweet potatoes in the fall.

This hashbrown casserole with cream of chicken soup is so versatile, you can really get creative.

Nutrition Basics

Okay, let's keep it real. This cheesy hashbrown casserole is definitely a treat, not a health food. But hey, everything in moderation, right?

Each serving packs a good amount of protein, thanks to the cheese and sour cream. And potatoes are actually a great source of potassium.

Of course, there's also plenty of cheese and butter, so keep that in mind. You know? I always try to balance it out with a big salad or some steamed veggies on the side.

Whether you're aiming for a Cracker Barrel hashbrown casserole copycat or just a simple, homemade hashbrown casserole , this recipe is sure to be a hit.

Don't be afraid to experiment and make it your own. Now go on, get cooking and enjoy! You can make this amazing breakfast casserole recipe easy or serve it for lunch!