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Grandma’s Hash Brown Casserole Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 105 reviews

Grandma’s Hash Brown Casserole is a comforting, old-fashioned favorite featuring creamy shredded hash browns baked with sour cream, sharp cheddar cheese, and a buttery cornflake topping. This rich, crowd-pleasing side dish is perfect for holidays, potlucks, or cozy family dinners, delivering warmth and cheesy goodness in every bite.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 bag (30 oz / 850 g) frozen shredded hash browns, thawed
  • 1 can (10.5 oz / 300 g) cream of chicken soup
  • 1 cup (240 ml) sour cream
  • 2 cups (200 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
  • ½ cup (115 g) melted butter
  • ½ cup (80 g) finely chopped onion
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Topping

  • 1 ½ cups (75 g) crushed cornflakes or buttery crackers
  • 3 tablespoons melted butter

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish using butter or nonstick spray to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
  2. Mix the Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 can of cream of chicken soup, 1 cup sour cream, and ½ cup melted butter. Stir these ingredients together until the mixture is smooth and creamy, forming the flavorful base of your casserole.
  3. Add Flavorings: Stir in ½ cup finely chopped onion, 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper. Mix thoroughly so all flavors meld evenly throughout the mixture.
  4. Incorporate Hash Browns: Gently fold in the thawed 30-ounce bag of frozen shredded hash browns. Be careful to mix without mashing, preserving the texture of the shredded potatoes.
  5. Transfer to Baking Dish: Spread the mixture evenly into your prepared 9×13-inch baking dish and smooth the top with a spatula for even baking.
  6. Top the Casserole: Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole for an extra cheesy crust.
  7. Prepare the Topping: In a small bowl, combine 1 ½ cups crushed cornflakes or buttery crackers with 3 tablespoons melted butter. Mix well until the crumbs are fully coated with butter.
  8. Add Topping to Casserole: Sprinkle the buttery cornflake topping evenly over the cheese layer to provide a crispy textural contrast after baking.
  9. Bake: Place the casserole in the oven and bake uncovered for 45–50 minutes. Bake until the top is golden brown, bubbly, and the edges are slightly crisp.
  10. Rest Before Serving: Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to sit for about 10 minutes. This resting period helps the casserole set, making it easier to slice and serve.
  11. Optional Garnish: Before serving, optionally sprinkle with fresh parsley, green onions, or a little extra cheese for an added flavor boost and attractive presentation.

Notes

  • You can prepare the casserole mixture up to 24 hours in advance; cover and refrigerate before baking, adding extra baking time when ready.
  • Freeze unbaked casseroles wrapped tightly in foil for up to 3 months; thaw overnight before baking.
  • For a vegetarian version, substitute cream of mushroom or celery soup.
  • To make the casserole crispier, finish baking under the broiler for 2–3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
  • Add cooked bacon, ham, or sausage before baking to turn it into a hearty main dish.
  • Leftovers store well in the refrigerator up to 4 days or freeze baked portions for up to 2 months.
  • Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F for 15–20 minutes or microwave individual portions.

Keywords: hash brown casserole, cheesy casserole, holiday side dish, comfort food, baked potatoes, easy casserole, potluck recipe

Find it online: https://biteandenjoy.com/grandmas-hash-brown-casserole-recipe/