Few dishes bring the warmth of home-cooked comfort quite like this Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole. With its creamy, cheesy center and crispy golden topping, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that pairs perfectly with any meal. Whether it’s a holiday gathering, potluck, or just a cozy family dinner, this casserole is sure to be a favorite.
Easy to prepare and packed with rich, satisfying flavors, this hashbrown casserole is the ultimate side dish. The combination of cheddar cheese, sour cream, and crispy cornflakes gives it an irresistible texture and taste. Whether you’re serving it alongside roasted meats, as part of a breakfast spread, or just enjoying it on its own, this dish is pure comfort on a plate!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 (32-ounce) bag frozen hashbrowns, thawed
- 1 (10.5-ounce) can cream of chicken soup
- 2 cups sour cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Topping:
- 2 cups crushed cornflakes
- 1/4 cup melted butter
Directions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine thawed hashbrowns, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, melted butter, chopped onion, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
- In a separate bowl, mix crushed cornflakes with melted butter and sprinkle over the casserole.
- Bake uncovered for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly.
- Remove from oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 50 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour
Kcal: 380 kcal | Servings: 8 servings
A Classic Comfort Dish
Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole, often called “Funeral Potatoes,” is a beloved side dish that has been a staple at family gatherings, potlucks, and holiday dinners for decades. This creamy, cheesy, and crispy-topped casserole is known for its rich flavor and easy preparation, making it a go-to recipe for anyone looking to serve a comforting meal.
What Makes This Casserole Special?
- Creamy & Cheesy Goodness: The combination of shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, and cream of chicken soup creates a velvety, flavorful base that coats every bite of the hashbrowns.
- Golden Crispy Topping: The buttery cornflake topping adds a satisfying crunch, balancing out the creamy interior.
- Easy to Make: This recipe requires simple ingredients and minimal prep time, making it an excellent choice for busy cooks.
- Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The savory, cheesy taste appeals to both kids and adults, making it a reliable dish for any occasion.
Best Occasions to Serve Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole
- Holidays & Celebrations: A must-have dish for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Easter dinners.
- Potlucks & Gatherings: Easy to transport and serve, making it perfect for family reunions and parties.
- Brunch Buffets: Pair it with eggs, bacon, and fresh fruit for a hearty breakfast spread.
- Weeknight Dinners: Serve it alongside grilled chicken, steak, or roasted vegetables for a satisfying meal.
Ingredient Variations & Substitutions
- Soup Alternative: Instead of cream of chicken soup, try cream of mushroom or cream of celery for a vegetarian version.
- Cheese Options: Swap cheddar for Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, or a blend of your favorite cheeses.
- Topping Variations: Instead of cornflakes, try crushed Ritz crackers, panko breadcrumbs, or even French-fried onions.
- Protein Additions: Add cooked bacon, ham, or sausage to turn this side dish into a full meal.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
- Make-Ahead: Assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before placing it in the oven.
- Freezing: You can freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 2 months. Cover tightly with foil and thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
- Storing Leftovers: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or microwave individual portions.
What to Serve with Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole
This casserole pairs well with a variety of main dishes, including:
- Grilled or Baked Chicken – Adds a protein-packed complement to the rich potatoes.
- Glazed Ham – A holiday favorite that balances the creamy texture of the casserole.
- Barbecue Ribs or Pulled Pork – The smoky flavors contrast beautifully with the cheesy goodness.
- Roasted Vegetables – A lighter side that complements the richness of the dish.
Ingredients & Their Role in the Dish
Each ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of flavors and textures:
Base Ingredients:
- Frozen Hashbrowns (Thawed) – The main component of the dish, providing texture and heartiness.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Adds a rich, cheesy flavor that binds everything together.
- Sour Cream – Contributes to the creamy texture and slight tanginess.
- Cream of Chicken Soup – Enhances the flavor and creates a luscious consistency. (You can substitute with cream of mushroom or cream of celery for a vegetarian version.)
- Chopped Onion – Brings mild sweetness and depth of flavor.
- Butter – Adds richness and enhances the golden, crispy topping.
Topping Ingredients:
- Crushed Cornflakes (or Ritz Crackers) – Creates a crunchy, golden-brown topping.
- Melted Butter – Helps crisp up the topping for a perfect finish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hashbrowns?
Yes! You can shred fresh potatoes using a box grater, but make sure to squeeze out excess moisture using a kitchen towel before mixing them into the casserole.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes! Simply use a gluten-free cream soup and gluten-free cornflakes or breadcrumbs for the topping.
Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?
Absolutely! Just bake it in two 9×13-inch pans or a larger casserole dish, and increase the baking time by 10-15 minutes.
Recipe Variations & Substitutions
This recipe is highly customizable, making it easy to adjust based on dietary needs or personal preference.
- Make it Vegetarian: Swap the cream of chicken soup for cream of mushroom or cream of celery.
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for extra heat.
- Add Protein: Mix in cooked bacon, ham, or sausage for a heartier version.
- Topping Alternatives: Use crushed Ritz crackers, panko breadcrumbs, or French-fried onions instead of cornflakes.
- Cheese Options: Try a blend of cheddar, mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Colby Jack for added flavor.
Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
One of the best things about this casserole is that you can prepare it in advance!
Make-Ahead Instructions:
- Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and store it covered in the fridge.
- Before baking, let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes.
How to Store Leftovers:
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
- Reheating: Warm leftovers in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15 minutes or microwave individual portions.
Conclusion
Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole is a timeless dish that brings comfort and joy to any table. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just a cozy family meal, this easy and flavorful casserole is sure to be a favorite. Try it today, and enjoy the perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, and crispy textures in every bite!