Hash Brown Cheese Casserole
A creamy, cheesy hash brown casserole topped with crunchy corn flakes, perfect for family gatherings and comfort food lovers seeking savory, hearty dishes with a crispy topping.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place frozen hashed brown potatoes in a colander and let stand until completely thawed and excess moisture is drained off.
- Combine sour cream, cream of chicken soup, and butter in a bowl.
- Mix well until smooth and creamy.
- Add salt, chopped onion, and shredded cheddar cheese to the mixture.
- Mix well to combine all ingredients.
- Gently fold in the drained potatoes into the mixture.
- Transfer the mixture into a shallow 2-quart casserole dish.
- Sprinkle buttered corn flakes evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Bake uncovered in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 50 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
- For best results, assemble the casserole not more than 2 hours before baking.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding cooked and crumbled bacon or diced ham to the mixture. You can substitute the cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom for a vegetarian version. If you're short on time, use pre-shredded cheese to save prep time. For added crunch, try using crushed potato chips instead of corn flakes.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Consider serving it alongside Chicken Noodle And Broccoli Soup for a comforting dinner. It's also a great dish for brunch or potlucks, and leftovers make a satisfying lunch option.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Hash Brown Cheese Casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, but the oven will keep the topping crispy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hash Brown Cheese Casserole contains roughly 405 calories, with 11g protein, 40g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (49% of the Daily Value), iron (36% of the Daily Value), and protein (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1049mg per serving (46% 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 this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to 2 hours in advance. Assemble all the ingredients and cover the dish until you're ready to bake. This allows the flavors to meld together and makes it a convenient option for busy days.
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hashed browns?
Absolutely! If using fresh potatoes, peel and grate them, then soak in cold water to remove excess starch. Drain well and pat dry before adding them to the mixture. This will ensure a crispy texture once baked.
What can I serve with Hash Brown Cheese Casserole?
This dish is versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with a light salad, roasted vegetables, or even a fruit salad like Turkey Or Chicken Fruit Salad for a refreshing contrast.
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).