Savory Hash Brown Potato Casserole Supreme

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 45 min
🍽 Serves: 8
★★★★★
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If you're looking for a cozy, comforting dish that's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, this Savory Hash Brown Potato Casserole Supreme is your go-to. With a blend of smoky, cheesy flavors and a touch of crispy pancetta, it's perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a hearty side dish.

Ingredients for Savory Hash Brown Potato Casserole Supreme

Frozen hash browns are the base of this casserole, adding texture and heartiness without the fuss of prepping fresh potatoes. Dice pancetta contributes a savory, crispy element that pairs wonderfully with the creamy components. Use smoked cheddar cheese for a depth of flavor that regular cheddar just can't provide. The sour cream and heavy cream work together to create a rich, smooth consistency, while a bit of melted butter ensures moisture and flavor throughout. Smoked paprika adds a subtle warmth and smokiness, perfectly complementing the cheese and pancetta. Finish with fresh chives for a pop of color and a hint of onion-like freshness.

Tips & Tricks

  • For extra crispiness, let the hash browns thaw and pat them dry before mixing.
  • If you’re short on time, you can caramelize the onions ahead and store them in the fridge.
  • Use a non-stick skillet for the pancetta to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. It's also a fantastic accompaniment to roast chicken or beef for a more substantial dinner. For a brunch setting, consider serving it alongside scrambled eggs and a fruit salad for a delightful spread.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?
Yes, but you'll need to peel and grate them, then pat them dry to remove excess moisture.
Can I use regular cheddar instead of smoked cheddar?
Absolutely, though the smoked version adds a unique depth of flavor.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.

Savory Hash Brown Potato Casserole Supreme Recipe Walkthrough

First, get your oven preheating to 375°F (190°C) — it's always good to have the oven ready when you are. Grab a skillet and set it over medium heat, tossing in the diced pancetta. Let it sizzle away until it's nice and crispy. Once done, scoop it out and let it drain on some paper towels.

Don't wipe out that skillet just yet! Those delicious pancetta drippings are perfect for caramelizing the onion. Toss in the finely chopped onion and let it cook until it's a lovely golden brown, about 10 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic for just a minute to let it release its aroma, then remove everything from the heat.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the frozen hash browns, caramelized onions, crispy pancetta, smoked cheddar cheese, sour cream, heavy cream, melted butter, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. Mix everything until well combined — you want each bite to have a taste of all these flavors.

Transfer this delicious mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the grated parmesan cheese over the top to form a golden crust as it bakes.

Pop the dish into your preheated oven and let it bake for 40-45 minutes. You'll know it's ready when the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling. Once out of the oven, let it cool for about 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh chives before serving warm. Enjoy!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Features a deliciously crispy top layer thanks to a sprinkle of parmesan.
  • Combines the rich, smoky flavor of smoked cheddar with savory pancetta.
  • Easy to prepare with frozen hash browns — no peeling or grating required!
  • Family-friendly and perfect for gatherings.
  • Can be prepared ahead of time and baked fresh when needed.

Ingredients

2 lbs frozen hash browns
1 cup diced pancetta
1 large onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups smoked cheddar cheese, shredded
1 cup sour cream
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
1/4 cup parmesan cheese, grated

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a skillet over medium heat, cook diced pancetta until crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
3. In the same skillet, add chopped onions and cook until caramelized, about 10 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute. Remove from heat.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine hash browns, caramelized onions, cooked pancetta, smoked cheddar, sour cream, heavy cream, melted butter, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. Mix until well combined.
5. Transfer the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle grated parmesan cheese evenly on top.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling.
7. Let it cool for 5 minutes, garnish with fresh chives, and serve warm.

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