If you're looking for a comforting dish that combines the golden crispiness of hash browns with the creamy richness of a casserole, then this Golden Crunch Hash Brown Casserole is your new go-to. It's a perfect side dish for family gatherings, potlucks, or any time you need a little comfort on your plate.
Frozen hash browns are the star of the show, offering that essential potato goodness with ease. Shredded sharp cheddar cheese adds a tangy, cheesy layer that melts beautifully into the mix. Sour cream brings creaminess and a slight tang, perfectly balancing the richness. Cream of chicken soup acts as the flavorful glue, tying everything together with its savory depth. A bit of minced onion introduces a mild, sweet bite, while melted butter enriches the whole dish. A sprinkle of garlic powder, along with salt and black pepper, enhances the flavors without overpowering them. Finally, the crushed cornflakes mixed with melted butter create that golden, crispy topping that makes this dish unforgettable.
This casserole pairs wonderfully with roasted or grilled meats, like chicken or beef. For a lighter meal, serve it alongside a fresh, crisp salad to balance the richness. It's also a hit at brunch tables, especially when served with eggs.
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your casserole will bake evenly and achieve that perfect golden crust. While the oven heats up, grab a large mixing bowl. Combine the frozen hash browns, cheddar cheese, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, minced onion, melted butter, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together until it's well mixed and you can see all the ingredients evenly distributed.
Next, take a 9x13 inch baking dish and grease it lightly. Spread your hash brown mixture into the dish, smoothing it out to ensure even baking. The mixture should fill the dish nicely and be roughly level across the top. Now, for the topping: in a small bowl, mix the crushed cornflakes with the additional melted butter. Sprinkle this evenly over the hash brown mixture, ensuring good coverage for that all-important crunch.
Pop the dish into your preheated oven and bake for around 45 minutes. You'll know it's ready when the top is golden brown and crispy, and the casserole is bubbling around the edges. Once done, take it out of the oven and let it sit for a few minutes. This brief cooling period helps everything set just right.