Looking for a comforting dish that's both hearty and packed with flavor? This Savory Spinach and Cheese Hash Brown Casserole is your answer! It's perfect for a family brunch or a cozy dinner, combining rich cheeses, earthy spinach, and crispy hash browns into one irresistible dish.
Start with frozen hash browns as your base, offering a crispy texture and hearty foundation. Fresh spinach adds a pop of color and nutrients, while sharp cheddar cheese delivers a tangy, full-bodied flavor. Parmesan cheese brings an extra layer of umami, making every bite deliciously cheesy. Sour cream lends creaminess and tang, balancing the richness of the cheese. A bit of onion offers a subtle sweetness and depth, while melted butter ensures the casserole is moist and flavorful. All-purpose flour helps to bind everything together, and a sprinkle of garlic powder, black pepper, and salt rounds out the seasoning. Don't forget the paprika on top for a touch of smokiness and color.
This casserole pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or a side of fresh fruit for contrast. It's also great alongside scrambled eggs for a brunch spread. If serving for dinner, consider adding a roasted vegetable or a light soup.
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that's warming up, grab a large mixing bowl. Combine the hash browns, chopped spinach, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and onion. You want everything mixed well, so the cheese and spinach are evenly distributed through the hash browns.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the sour cream, melted butter, flour, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt until it's smooth and creamy. This mixture will coat the hash browns, ensuring every bite is flavorful and moist.
Pour this creamy mixture over your hash brown combo, stirring it all together until everything is nicely coated. Now, transfer this to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly. For a finishing touch, sprinkle the paprika over the top.
Place your dish in the oven and let it bake for 45-50 minutes. You'll know it's done when the top is a lovely golden brown and the casserole is hot throughout. Once out of the oven, let it sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This brief rest helps everything settle, making it easier to cut and serve.