Cheese Hash Browns
Cheese Hash Browns is a comforting casserole combining crispy browned hash browns with rich cheese, creamy soup, and sautéed onions. This savory dish offers a hearty, cheesy flavor perfect for family dinners or potlucks, delivering a satisfying blend of textures and flavors in each bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sauté chopped onion and butter together until the onion is translucent.
- Combine sour cream and cream of mushroom or chicken soup with the sautéed onion and butter mixture.
- Crumble the browned frozen hash browns and mix with the soup mixture.
- Add 8 ounces of shredded Cheddar cheese to the mixture and combine well.
- Pour the mixture into a 9 x 13-inch baking pan.
- Top with the remaining shredded Cheddar cheese.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour until hot and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding cooked bacon or diced ham to the mixture. If you're short on time, you can substitute fresh hash browns with pre-cooked refrigerated ones. A sprinkle of garlic powder or paprika can elevate the dish further. Make sure to drain any excess moisture from the hash browns to achieve a better texture. This dish is a great accompaniment to American recipes like Cabbage Souffle Casserole.
Serving Suggestions
Serve cheese hash browns as a hearty side dish for breakfast or brunch, pairing wonderfully with scrambled eggs or a fresh fruit salad. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside grilled meats or a simple green salad. This dish also complements dishes like Quick Cheddar Cheese Squares, making it a versatile addition to your table.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover cheese hash browns can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for a quicker option, but the oven will help maintain the crispy texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheese Hash Browns contains roughly 1017 calories, with 10g protein, 59g carbohydrates, and 83g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 775mg per serving (34% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make cheese hash browns ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture a day in advance, cover it, and refrigerate it. Just be sure to add the cheese topping just before baking to keep it fresh. When ready to bake, allow the dish to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
What can I use instead of sour cream?
If you don’t have sour cream on hand, plain Greek yogurt is a great substitute that adds a similar creaminess and tang. You can also use cottage cheese blended until smooth for a lower-fat option. Just keep in mind that this might slightly alter the flavor profile of the dish.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! Chopped bell peppers, spinach, or even grated zucchini can be mixed into the hash brown mixture for added nutrition and flavor. Just make sure to sauté any fresh vegetables beforehand to reduce moisture and ensure they cook through during baking.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).