This Cheesy Herb Hash Brown Casserole is your go-to comfort dish that brings together the hearty goodness of potatoes and the savory richness of cheese and herbs. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner, this casserole is a hit all year round.
The star of this dish is the trusty frozen hash browns, which provide a hearty base and make it incredibly easy to throw together. Shredded cheddar cheese brings a rich, creamy texture and adds that irresistible cheesy pull. Sour cream adds a tangy creaminess that balances the richness. The condensed cream of mushroom soup is our secret weapon, bringing a savory depth that melds everything together. Melted unsalted butter adds luscious moisture and flavor, while fresh rosemary and garlic infuse the dish with aromatic notes that elevate the whole experience. Finally, a touch of salt and black pepper enhances all these flavors, and a sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness right before serving.
This casserole pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to balance the richness. It also complements grilled chicken or roast beef, making it a versatile side dish for various meals.
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This gives you ample time to prepare everything else while the oven gets nice and toasty. Grab a large mixing bowl and toss in the frozen hash browns—no need to thaw them, which is a real time-saver. Add the shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, and cream of mushroom soup to the mix. Pour in the melted butter, making sure it’s cooled a bit so it doesn’t melt the cheese prematurely.
Now, onto the aromatics: toss in the chopped fresh rosemary and minced garlic. These will infuse the casserole with that irresistible aroma as it bakes. Don’t forget the salt and pepper to round out the flavors. Mix everything together until it’s well combined. You want every bite to have a bit of each ingredient. Once mixed, transfer it all into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
Pop it into your preheated oven and let it bake for about 45 minutes. You’re looking for a golden brown top that’s bubbling with cheesy goodness. Once it’s done, carefully remove it from the oven (it’ll be hot!) and let it sit for a few minutes. This is the perfect time to sprinkle on that fresh parsley, adding a fresh, vibrant contrast to the rich casserole underneath.