Tracy'S Hash Brown Casserole
Creamy hash brown casserole with cheddar cheese and savory flavors, perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or holiday gatherings, offering cheesy, comforting goodness in every bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Melt butter in a casserole dish.
- Add hash browns, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, half of the cheddar cheese, and chopped onion to the dish.
- Stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Bake uncovered for 45 to 55 minutes.
- Remove from oven and sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top.
- Return to oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a cup of shredded rotisserie chicken or diced ham to the mixture. If you prefer a spicier kick, try mixing in some jalapeños or using pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar. To save time, you can use frozen hash browns or pre-chopped onions. Ensure to stir well, as this helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
This hash brown casserole pairs beautifully with crispy bacon or sausage for a hearty brunch. Consider serving it alongside a fresh green salad for a balanced meal. It also makes a great side dish for dinner, especially with chicken recipes like Chicken Primo or Chicken Pauline. This dish is perfect for potluck gatherings as well.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and bake 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 texture of the cheese and hash browns.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tracy'S Hash Brown Casserole contains roughly 739 calories, with 22g protein, 50g carbohydrates, and 51g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (43% of the Daily Value), calcium (43% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1592mg per serving (69% 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; just peel and shred them. Keep in mind that fresh potatoes will require additional cooking time. Parboiling them briefly before mixing with the other ingredients can help ensure they cook through evenly during baking.
Is it possible to make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator before baking. Just be sure to cover it tightly with foil. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup?
If you're looking for a substitute, you can use cream of mushroom soup or make a homemade version with a roux, milk, and chicken broth. For a vegetarian option, consider using a vegetable-based cream soup or even a thickened white sauce.
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).