Ore-Ida Au Gratin
Creamy, cheesy hash brown casserole with green onions and a crispy potato chip topping, perfect for family dinners or potlucks, offering comforting flavors and easy preparation.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Blend together sour cream, cream of chicken soup, shredded Cheddar cheese, melted margarine, and chopped green onions in order.
- Place the mixture in a 9 x 13-inch or two small casseroles.
- Sprinkle potato chips on top.
- Bake at 350°F for 1 hour until heated through and golden on top.
- Can be made several hours ahead and refrigerated until baking time.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider substituting Greek yogurt for sour cream. If you want to add some heat, try mixing in diced jalapeños or using pepper jack cheese instead of Cheddar. To save time, use pre-shredded cheese, but shredding your own will yield a better melt. This dish also works well with variations, such as adding cooked ground beef or diced ham for a heartier meal.
Serving Suggestions
This Au Gratin pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It also complements protein dishes like Baked Chicken Crescents or grilled meats, making it a versatile side. For a hearty brunch option, serve alongside scrambled eggs or a frittata, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Au Gratin can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be careful not to overcook, as it may dry out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ore-Ida Au Gratin contains roughly 728 calories, with 30g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 56g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (69% of the Daily Value), protein (61% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (51% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1307mg per serving (57% 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 use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?
Yes, you can use fresh potatoes, but you'll need to parboil and shred them first. Frozen hash browns save time and maintain consistency in texture. If using fresh, consider adding a bit more seasoning to enhance the flavor.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply skip the cream of chicken soup and use a vegetable-based cream soup instead. Ensure your cheese is vegetarian-friendly, and you can add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, this dish can be prepared several hours in advance. Assemble it completely, cover tightly with foil, and refrigerate until ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to baking time if it's coming directly from the fridge.
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).