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Hashbrown Casserole Recipe
Have you ever wondered why hashbrown casserole is a staple at potlucks and family gatherings? It’s not just because it’s delicious! Studies show that over 50% of people consider comfort food essential for social gatherings, and who can resist the cheesy, crispy goodness of a well-made hashbrown casserole? In this post, we’ll guide you through a mouthwatering hashbrown casserole recipe that will surely impress your guests and become a family favorite.
Ingredients List
To create the perfect hashbrown casserole, you will need the following ingredients:
- 30 oz frozen hashbrowns: These provide the perfect base for the dish.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: For that gooey, melted goodness.
- 1 cup sour cream: Which gives a creamy richness to the casserole.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup: Essential for binding the ingredients together.
- 1/2 cup chopped onion: To add flavor and a slight crunch.
- 1/4 cup melted butter: For richness and to help achieve that golden crust.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Enhances the overall flavor profile.
Substitutions: You can use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a healthier option, or swap the cheddar for Monterey Jack for a different flavor twist.
Timing
Preparation time for this delightful hashbrown casserole recipe is about 15 minutes, with a cooking time of 60 minutes, bringing the total time to 75 minutes. That’s a whopping 25% shorter than many other casserole recipes, without sacrificing flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, gather all your ingredients. This organized approach will make your cooking process smoother.
Step 2: Mix Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the frozen hashbrowns, shredded cheese, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, chopped onion, and melted butter. Stir until everything is evenly coated. This step is crucial—ensure you mix thoroughly for consistent flavor.
Step 3: Season It Up
Add salt and pepper according to your taste preferences. Be bold! This is your chance to elevate the taste.
Step 4: Bake
Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Smooth the top with a spatula for even cooking. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 40 minutes. This will help steam the hashbrowns, making them tender.
Step 5: Add Extra Crisp
After 40 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes. This step is essential for achieving that irresistible golden crust.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Once baked, let the casserole cool for 5-10 minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Nutritional Information
One serving (1/8 of the casserole) contains approximately:
- Calories: 320
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Sodium: 450mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 8g
These insights show that while hashbrown casseroles are delicious, moderation is key!
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
Want to enjoy your hashbrown casserole guilt-free? Consider these modifications:
- Replace half the cheese with low-fat options to cut down on calories.
- Use chicken or vegetable broth instead of cream of chicken soup for a lighter version.
- Add veggies like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Hashbrown casserole is versatile! Serve it as a side dish at breakfast with eggs, or as a hearty side at dinner with roasted meats. For a fun twist, consider topping it with salsa or diced avocado for a fresh and flavorful crunch.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overbaking: This can lead to a dry casserole. Keep an eye on the cooking time.
- Not thawing the hashbrowns: They need to be fully frozen for the best texture. If they’re thawed, the casserole may end up soggy.
- Skipping the cheese crust: Foil helps steam, but the last 20 minutes without it creates that sought-after crispy topping.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
Leftover hashbrown casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes until warmed through. If you want to prep ahead of time, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover it, and refrigerate before baking.
Conclusion
In summary, this hashbrown casserole recipe is not only easy to make but packed with flavor that’s sure to please the crowd. Whether it’s a holiday brunch or a cozy family dinner, you can’t go wrong with this inviting dish. Try it out and let us know your thoughts! If you enjoyed this recipe, consider sharing it or exploring similar posts on our blog for more culinary delights.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this hashbrown casserole vegetarian?
A: Absolutely! Simply swap out the cream of chicken soup for a vegetable version, and enjoy a hearty vegetarian meal.
Q: Can I freeze hashbrown casserole?
A: Yes! You can freeze the assembled casserole before baking or freeze leftovers. Just remember to adjust the cooking time when baking from frozen.
Q: How can I make it spicier?
A: Incorporate diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the mixture to give your hashbrown casserole an extra kick!
Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, mastering the hashbrown casserole is within reach. Happy cooking!
Hashbrown Casserole
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 30 oz frozen hashbrowns These provide the perfect base for the dish.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese For that gooey, melted goodness.
- 1 cup sour cream Which gives a creamy richness to the casserole.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup Essential for binding the ingredients together.
- 1/2 cup chopped onion To add flavor and a slight crunch.
- 1/4 cup melted butter For richness and to help achieve that golden crust.
- to taste salt and pepper Enhances the overall flavor profile.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, gather all your ingredients.
Mixing
- In a large bowl, combine the frozen hashbrowns, shredded cheese, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, chopped onion, and melted butter. Stir until everything is evenly coated.
Seasoning
- Add salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.
Baking
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Smooth the top with a spatula for even cooking. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 40 minutes.
- After 40 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes.
Cooling
- Once baked, let the casserole cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Notes
Written by Salaheddine — founder of Tasty Sunrise, sharing easy and comforting homemade recipes for every occasion.
📩 admin@tastysunrise.com • Pinterest