Oven Baked Hash Browns
Oven Baked Hash Browns offer a comforting, cheesy dish with crispy topping and creamy interior, perfect for breakfast or brunch. The combination of hash browns, cheddar, and savory soup makes it a crowd-pleaser for family gatherings or weekend brunches. It’s hearty, cheesy, and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients together in a bowl.
- Spread the mixture evenly in a 9 x 13-inch lightly greased baking dish.
- Sprinkle over the top 1/4 cup melted margarine and 1 cup crushed cornflakes.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40 to 45 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding cooked bacon or sausage to the hash brown mixture. You can substitute cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom for a vegetarian option. If you prefer a crispier topping, try using panko breadcrumbs instead of cornflakes. Thawing hash browns completely can help achieve a better texture, so plan accordingly.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is perfect as a hearty breakfast or brunch item, but it also pairs beautifully with Chicken, Stuffing, Broccoli Casserole for a comforting dinner. Serve alongside a fresh green salad or sliced tomatoes for a balanced meal. For a complete spread, consider offering a selection of condiments like ketchup or hot sauce on the side.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for quicker reheating, but the oven helps maintain the crispiness of the topping.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Oven Baked Hash Browns contains roughly 310 calories, with 16g protein, 13g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (39% of the Daily Value) and protein (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1828mg per serving (79% 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 dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the hash brown mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just add the cornflake topping before baking. This allows the flavors to meld and makes it convenient for serving at brunch or dinner.
What can I use instead of sour cream?
You can substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream to reduce fat and add protein. Alternatively, crème fraîche or a dairy-free yogurt can work well for a similar creamy texture.
Can I freeze the baked hash browns?
Yes, you can freeze the baked hash brown casserole for up to 2 months. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake until hot throughout.
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).