Golden Hash Brown Casserole is the ultimate comfort food with a crispy top and a creamy, cheesy center. This dish is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even as a side for dinner, bringing warmth and satisfaction to any table.
The star of the show is undoubtedly the frozen hash browns. They provide the perfect texture and are a breeze to work with straight from the freezer. The cream of chicken soup brings a lovely savory depth and binds everything together. Sour cream adds a creamy tang that balances the richness. The shredded cheddar cheese delivers that gooey, cheesy goodness we all crave. Melted butter not only enhances flavor but also helps achieve that golden top layer. Chopped onions give a mild sweetness and complexity, while salt and black pepper season everything to perfection. Lastly, the optional crushed cornflakes add a delightful crunch on top.
This casserole pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For breakfast or brunch, serve it alongside scrambled eggs and toast. A dollop of salsa or hot sauce on top can add a nice kick.
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure your casserole cooks evenly and to perfection. Meanwhile, grab a large bowl and mix together the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, melted butter, chopped onions, salt, and black pepper. Make sure everything is well combined.
Now it's time to fold in the hash browns and 1 1/2 cups of the cheddar cheese. Stir until the hash browns are well coated with the creamy mixture. Take your greased 9x13 inch baking dish and spread the hash brown mixture evenly across it. You want an even layer so it bakes just right.
Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top for that irresistible cheesy layer. If you're using crushed cornflakes, sprinkle those on now too. Pop the dish into your preheated oven and let it bake for about 45 minutes. You'll know it's done when the cheese is melted, bubbly, and has a beautiful golden crust.