Golden Crunch Hash Brown Casserole

🕒 Prep: 10 min
🔥 Cook: 45 min
🍽 Serves: 8
Be the First to Review!

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.

Ingredients for Golden Crunch Hash Brown Casserole

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.

Tips & Tricks

  • Thaw the hash browns slightly for easier mixing.
  • Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting and flavor.
  • Make it ahead! Assemble the night before and bake when needed.

Serving Suggestions

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.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?
Yes, but you'll need to shred them and remove excess moisture before using.
Is there a vegetarian version?
Absolutely, swap the cream of chicken soup for cream of mushroom soup.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

Golden Crunch Hash Brown Casserole Recipe Walkthrough

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.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Crunchy cornflake topping adds irresistible texture.
  • Simple to prepare with everyday ingredients.
  • Rich and creamy flavor that satisfies on all levels.
  • Feeds a crowd or provides plenty of leftovers.

Ingredients

4 cups frozen hash browns
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup sour cream
1 can cream of chicken soup (10.5 oz)
1/2 cup minced onion
1/4 cup melted butter
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup crushed cornflakes
2 tablespoons melted butter (for topping)

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the hash browns, cheddar cheese, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, minced onion, melted butter, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Spread the mixture evenly into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
4. In a small bowl, mix the crushed cornflakes with 2 tablespoons of melted butter. Sprinkle the cornflake mixture evenly over the casserole.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
6. Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving.

Ratings and Comments

Thank you for your rating!