If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food dish that’s easy to make and absolutely delicious, look no further than this Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole. Whether you’re preparing it in the crockpot for a hands-off approach or baking it in the oven, this creamy, cheesy, and satisfying dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole is perfect for busy families, potlucks, holiday gatherings, or a cozy weekend breakfast. It requires minimal ingredients, takes just a few minutes to prep, and can be made using either a slow cooker or an oven. Plus, it’s loaded with creamy, cheesy goodness that everyone will love!
Who is This Recipe For?
If you’re someone who loves comfort food, enjoys easy meal prep, or needs a no-fail dish to bring to a get-together, this recipe is for you. It’s also perfect for those who like versatile dishes that can be customized to fit personal tastes.
Ingredients
- 1 (22-ounce) bag of frozen hash browns
- 1 (10.5-ounce) can of condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
For a Loaded Hashbrown Casserole Variation:
- Increase hash browns to 33 ounces
- Increase sour cream to 16 ounces
- 1 small chopped onion
- 4 chopped scallions
- 12 slices of chopped cooked bacon (reserve some for the topping)
Instructions
Crockpot Method
- Add all the ingredients (except 1 cup of shredded cheddar) to the slow cooker and mix well.
- Cook on low for 4 hours.
- Add the remaining shredded cheddar cheese, cover, and cook for another 20 minutes on low.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Oven Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine all the ingredients except for 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Bake uncovered for 45-50 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until melted.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Slow cooker (for crockpot method)
- Large mixing bowl
- 9×13-inch baking dish (for oven method)
- Spatula or mixing spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board (if adding extra ingredients)
Tips & Variations
- Make it Vegetarian: Swap the cream of chicken soup for cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce for extra heat.
- Extra Crunch: Top with crushed cornflakes, panko breadcrumbs, or crushed Ritz crackers mixed with melted butter before baking.
- Different Cheeses: Try a blend of cheeses like Monterey Jack, Colby, or Pepper Jack for a unique twist.
- Protein Boost: Stir in diced ham, crumbled sausage, or shredded rotisserie chicken for a heartier dish.
How to Store Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (which is rare because it’s so delicious!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions or warm them in the oven at 325°F until heated through.
For longer storage, you can freeze portions of the casserole in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven.
Best Food & Drink Pairings
- Breakfast: Serve with scrambled eggs and fresh fruit for a hearty morning meal.
- Brunch: Pair with mimosas and a fresh green salad for a perfect weekend brunch.
- Dinner: Serve alongside grilled chicken, steak, or BBQ ribs with a side of roasted vegetables.
FAQ
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole the night before and store it in the fridge. If baking, allow it to come to room temperature for about 20 minutes before placing it in the oven.
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?
Absolutely! Just grate fresh potatoes, rinse and drain them well, then proceed with the recipe as usual.
What’s the best way to reheat this casserole?
For the best texture, reheat in the oven at 325°F for 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. The microwave works too but may result in a softer texture.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes! Use dairy-free cheese, a plant-based sour cream alternative, and a dairy-free butter substitute.
Final Thoughts
Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, brunch, or dinner, it’s sure to be a hit. Give it a try, customize it to your liking, and let us know how it turns out!
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