Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—rich, creamy, and loaded with melty cheese and crispy golden topping. It’s a classic side dish perfect for gatherings, holiday dinners, potlucks, or even a hearty brunch.
With its creamy interior and crunchy cornflake topping, this casserole brings warmth and satisfaction to every bite. Easy to prepare and great for feeding a crowd, this recipe is a go-to for anyone who loves cheesy, potato-filled goodness.
1. Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole Recipe
Ingredients
To make this 12-serving cheesy hashbrown casserole, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 (2-pound) package frozen hash brown potatoes, thawed
- 2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese
- 1 (10.5-ounce) can condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 (8-ounce) container sour cream
- ¾ cup butter, melted and divided
- ½ cup chopped onion
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 cups crushed cornflakes
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or butter to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Mix the Casserole Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine the following:
- Thawed hash brown potatoes
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Condensed cream of chicken soup
- Sour cream
- ½ cup of the melted butter
- Chopped onion
- Salt
- Ground black pepper
Stir everything together until the mixture is well combined and creamy.
Step 3: Transfer to Baking Dish
Spoon the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly using a spatula or the back of a spoon to ensure uniform cooking.
Step 4: Prepare the Topping
In a separate bowl, mix the crushed cornflakes with the remaining ¼ cup of melted butter. Stir until all the flakes are evenly coated with butter.
Step 5: Add Topping
Sprinkle the buttery cornflake mixture evenly over the top of the casserole. This will create a delicious crunchy topping once baked.
Step 6: Bake
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling.
Step 7: Serve
Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. This allows the casserole to set and makes it easier to slice and serve.
2. Tips for the Perfect Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole
Thaw Hash Browns Completely
Make sure the frozen hash browns are fully thawed to avoid excess moisture, which can make the casserole soggy.
Use Freshly Grated Cheese
Shredding cheese from a block instead of using pre-shredded varieties gives you better melt quality and flavor.
Don’t Skip the Sour Cream
Sour cream adds richness and tang that balances the creaminess of the soup and cheese.
Finely Chop the Onion
Finely chopped onions blend better into the casserole and cook evenly, adding flavor without overpowering the dish.
Cover with Foil if Browning Too Quickly
If the top starts to brown too fast during baking, loosely cover with aluminum foil to prevent burning.
3.Variations & Substitutes
Swap Cream of Chicken for Cream of Mushroom
For a vegetarian twist, use cream of mushroom soup instead of cream of chicken. It adds a delicious earthy flavor.
Add Cooked Bacon or Ham
Stir in chopped cooked bacon or diced ham to make it a more hearty and protein-packed main dish.
Try Different Cheeses
Experiment with Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a sharp white cheddar for different flavor profiles.
Use French Fried Onions Instead of Cornflakes
For a different kind of crunch and a touch of sweetness, replace the cornflake topping with crispy French fried onions.
Make It Spicy
Add a diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mix for a spicy twist that balances the richness of the cheese.
How to Store & Reheat Leftovers
Storing:
Allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze leftovers in individual portions for up to 3 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing.
Reheating:
To reheat, place a portion in a microwave-safe dish and cover loosely with a damp paper towel. Heat on medium power for 2–3 minutes, or until warmed through. For oven reheating, place in a preheated 350°F oven for 15–20 minutes, covering with foil to prevent over-browning.
Final Thoughts
Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole is a timeless classic that brings comfort and flavor to any table. It’s easy to make, satisfying to eat, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re preparing it for a holiday meal, a family brunch, or a potluck party, it’s sure to disappear fast.
With its creamy, cheesy interior and golden crunchy topping, this recipe delivers big on taste and texture. Give it a try and watch it become a staple in your kitchen.
