Potato O'Brien
Creamy, cheesy hash browns topped with crunchy corn flakes and a buttery finish make this comforting dish perfect for breakfast, brunch, or family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place the hash browns, diced onions, cream of mushroom or celery soup, sour cream, and grated cheese in a baking dish in the order listed.
- Sprinkle crushed corn flakes over the top of the ingredients in the baking dish.
- Drizzle melted margarine over the corn flakes crumbs.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes until hot and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a crispy topping, ensure the corn flakes are evenly distributed and lightly crushed before sprinkling them on top. You can substitute the cream of mushroom soup with cream of celery for a different flavor profile. If you prefer a healthier version, consider using Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. This dish is perfect for potlucks, similar to Molly'S Breakfast 'Egg Thing', as it's both hearty and satisfying.
Serving Suggestions
Potato O'Brien makes a great side dish for breakfast or brunch, pairing wonderfully with eggs or bacon. It can also be served alongside grilled meats for dinner. Consider serving it with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. This dish complements hearty entrees, making it a versatile addition to any table.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Potato O'Brien in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil, then heat at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes. For a quicker option, microwave individual portions, but be careful not to overcook them.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Potato O'Brien contains roughly 640 calories, with 10g protein, 78g carbohydrates, and 33g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (65% of the Daily Value), iron (57% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (38% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 900mg per serving (39% 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 hash browns?
Yes, you can use fresh potatoes! Just peel and dice them into small cubes, then parboil them until slightly tender before combining with the other ingredients. This way, they will cook through evenly in the oven.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish up to the baking step, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Remove from the fridge and allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
What type of cheese works best for this recipe?
Cheddar cheese is a popular choice for its sharp flavor that complements the other ingredients well. However, you can mix it with Monterey Jack or even pepper jack for a bit of a kick. Feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses to customize the flavor!
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).