This Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—rich, creamy, and packed with bold cheddar flavor.
Made with tender shredded potatoes, a creamy cheese sauce, and a golden, bubbly topping, this dish is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a hearty side dish for any meal.
Whether you’re serving it for a family gathering, a holiday dinner, or a casual weeknight meal, this easy-to-make casserole is always a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
30 oz frozen shredded hash brown potatoes thawed
2 tbsp olive oil
1 yellow onion diced
3 large garlic cloves minced
1/4 cup all purpose flour
2 cups whole milk (can use reduced fat if needed)
1 cup chicken stock
1 cup sour cream
8 oz shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 1/2 tbsp minced parsley (can use dried parsley if needed)
salt
fresh cracked black pepper
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese topping
How To Make Hashbrown Casserole
Preheat oven to 350 and grease a 9×13 casserole baking dish.
Preheat medium pot over medium heat on stove-top.
Add oil, heat it through and add onions. Saute onions until they start to brown.
Smash and mince garlic and add it to the onions. Stir and saute until fragrant.
Sprinkle flour over the onions and stir well. Stir for a few seconds and start slowly pouring in chicken stock, while stirring.
Pour in milk after that while stirring as well.
Let the mixture heat through and start to thicken.
Stir in sour cream, cheese, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture cook and thicken as the cheese melts.
Taste to make sure you have enough seasoning.
Stir in parsley
Variations & Tips
Variations:
Loaded Hashbrown Casserole: Add crispy bacon bits, diced ham, or cooked sausage for a protein boost.
Veggie-Packed: Mix in chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra nutrition.
Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños, a pinch of cayenne, or pepper jack cheese for heat.
Crunchy Topping: Instead of extra cheese, sprinkle buttered panko breadcrumbs, crushed Ritz crackers, or cornflakes for a crispy top.
Healthier Swap: Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream and reduced-fat cheese and milk for a lighter version.
Tips:
Thaw Hashbrowns Properly: Ensure frozen hashbrowns are fully thawed and drained to prevent a watery casserole.
Season Well: Potatoes absorb flavor, so be generous with salt, pepper, and seasonings.
Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole the night before, cover, and refrigerate. Bake fresh when ready!
Prevent Sogginess: Bake uncovered to help the casserole develop a crispy, golden top.
How to Store
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Wrap tightly in foil or transfer to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating:
Oven: Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 15-20 minutes until heated through.
Microwave: Heat individual portions for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway for even heating.
With these variations and storage tips, your Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole will always be delicious, whether fresh, reheated, or customized to your taste!
Serving Suggestions
This Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole pairs well with a variety of dishes, making it a perfect addition to any meal. Here are some ideas:
Breakfast & Brunch: Serve with scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, sausage links, or a fresh fruit salad for a hearty morning meal.
Dinner Side Dish: Pair with grilled chicken, roasted turkey, BBQ ribs, or baked ham for a comforting side.
Holiday Feasts: A staple for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Easter, complementing classics like roast beef, stuffing, and green bean casserole.
Toppings: Add extra cheese, sour cream, chives, or hot sauce for a customizable touch.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hashbrown Casserole
1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate it overnight. When ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before baking.
2. Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hashbrowns?
Absolutely! Use grated russet potatoes, but make sure to squeeze out excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel before mixing.
3. How do I prevent my casserole from being too soggy?
Ensure your hashbrowns are fully thawed and drained before mixing. Also, baking uncovered helps create a crispy top layer.
4. Can I freeze hashbrown casserole?
Yes! Bake it first, let it cool, then wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating in the oven.
5. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
- Oven: 325°F (163°C) for 15-20 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring occasionally, until warm.
With these serving ideas and answers to common questions, your Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole will always be a hit!