Golden Hash Brown and Cheese Casserole

Introducing the Golden Hash Brown and Cheese Casserole! This hearty and comforting dish combines the creamy richness of cheese and sour cream with the satisfying crunch of toasted cornflakes atop a bed of golden hash browns.

Perfect for any gathering or cozy family dinner, this casserole is a crowd-pleaser that’s simple to prepare and sure to delight. Let’s dive into the recipe and bring this delicious cheesy creation to life!

Golden Hash Brown and Cheese Casserole

Ingredients:

1 (2 lb) package frozen hash brown potatoes, thawed

2 c shredded Cheddar cheese

1 (10.5 oz) can condensed cream of chicken soup

1 (8 oz) container sour cream

¾ c butter, melted, divided

½ c chopped onion

1 tsp salt

¼ tsp ground black pepper

2 c crushed cornflakes

Instructions:

Preheat Oven: Start by heating your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).

Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the thawed hash browns, shredded Cheddar cheese, condensed cream of chicken soup, sour cream, half a cup of the melted butter, chopped onion, salt, and black pepper. Until well combined.

Prepare Casserole Dish: Transfer the hash brown mixture. IInto a 3-quart casserole dish. Spreading it evenly.

Make Topping: In a small saucepan, sauté the crushed cornflakes. With the remaining quarter cup of melted butter. Until the flakes are lightly toasted.

Add Topping: Sprinkle the toasted cornflakes evenly over the top of the hash brown mixture in the casserole dish.

Bake: Cover the casserole dish with a lid or aluminum foil. And bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes. Until the casserole is hot and bubbly.

Serve: Remove from oven. Let it cool slightly. And serve warm.

Enjoy your delicious, cheesy, and crispy-topped casserole!

Notes:

Ingredient Substitutions: Feel free to customize this recipe by substituting different types of cheese or using different cream soups, such as cream of mushroom or cream of celery, for variety.

Frozen vs. Fresh Hash Browns: While the recipe calls for frozen hash brown potatoes, you can also use fresh grated potatoes if preferred. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Creaminess Factor: The combination of condensed cream of chicken soup and sour cream creates a creamy base for the casserole. If you prefer a lighter option, you can use reduced-fat or Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.

Onion Variations: Experiment with different types of onions, such as sweet onions or green onions, to add different flavor profiles to the dish.

Crunchy Topping: Toasting the crushed cornflakes in butter adds a crunchy texture to the casserole’s topping. Make sure to watch them carefully to prevent burning.

Casserole Dish Size: Use a 3-quart casserole dish as recommended in the recipe to ensure the ingredients fit properly and cook evenly.

Covering the Casserole: Covering the casserole dish with a lid or aluminum foil during baking helps to trap steam and heat, ensuring the casserole cooks evenly and stays moist.

Checking for Doneness: The casserole is ready when it’s hot and bubbly, and the top is golden brown. Use a fork or knife to check that the hash browns are cooked through.

Serving Suggestions: This casserole makes a delicious side dish for breakfast or brunch, but it’s also hearty enough to serve as a main course for lunch or dinner. Pair it with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Leftover Storage: Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through before serving.

Nutrition Information:

YIELDS: 8 | SERVING SIZE: 1

Calories: 500 kcal | Protein: 12 grams | Carbohydrates: 30 grams | Fat: 35 grams | Fiber: 2 grams

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use fresh hash browns instead of frozen?

Yes, you can use fresh hash browns if you prefer.

Just ensure they are grated and cooked before adding them to the casserole.

Can I substitute the Cheddar cheese with another type of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite cheese or a combination of cheeses to suit your taste preferences.

Is there a substitute for condensed cream of chicken soup?

If you prefer not to use canned soup, you can make a homemade cream sauce using chicken broth, flour, and milk as a substitute.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time and bake it later?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it overnight.

Simply bake it when you’re ready to serve.

How can I make this casserole vegetarian?

You can omit the chicken soup and replace it with a vegetarian cream soup or a mixture of vegetable broth and cream.

You can also add additional vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor.

Can I use a different topping instead of cornflakes?

Sure! Crushed crackers or breadcrumbs can be used as an alternative topping for added crunch.

Is it possible to freeze this casserole?

Yes, you can freeze this casserole before or after baking.

Just make sure to wrap it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.

What can I serve with this casserole?

This casserole pairs well with a side salad, steamed vegetables, or fresh fruit for a balanced meal.

How long will leftovers last in the refrigerator?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Reheat them in the oven or microwave until warmed through before serving.

Can I add meat or other protein to this casserole?

Absolutely! Cooked bacon, diced ham, or cooked chicken can be added to the casserole for extra flavor and protein.

Just mix them in with the other ingredients before baking.