Southwestern Hash Brown Casserole

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 45 min
🍽 Serves: 8
★★★★★
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This Southwestern Hash Brown Casserole is a flavor-packed dish that's perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner. Loaded with spicy chorizo, colorful veggies, and gooey Pepper Jack cheese, it brings a delightful twist to the classic casserole. It's quick to assemble and a sure crowd-pleaser!

Ingredients for Southwestern Hash Brown Casserole

The star of this dish is definitely the frozen hash browns, which provide a hearty base and soak up all the fantastic flavors. Ground chorizo sausage adds a spicy, savory punch that's enriched by the Southwest-inspired spices. The diced bell peppers and onions bring sweetness and a bit of crunch, while Pepper Jack cheese melts into creamy perfection with a hint of spice. The sour cream and salsa form a creamy, tangy binder, and the fresh cilantro adds a burst of freshness. Finally, spices like chili powder, cumin, and garlic powder bring everything together for that signature Southwestern taste.

Tips & Tricks

  • If you're short on time, you can prep all the ingredients the night before and just pop it in the oven the next day.
  • For a vegetarian version, swap the chorizo for black beans or a plant-based sausage.
  • Ensure your hash browns are slightly thawed for easier mixing.
  • Adjust spice levels to taste; remove seeds from jalapeños for a milder heat.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole pairs beautifully with a side of fresh avocado slices or a simple green salad to lighten things up. A dollop of extra sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro can add a nice touch before serving. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside refried beans or a warm tortilla.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?
Yes, you can shred fresh potatoes, but you may need to squeeze out excess moisture before using them in the casserole.
Can this dish be made in advance?
Absolutely! Prepare the casserole, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

Southwestern Hash Brown Casserole Recipe Walkthrough

First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and make sure to grease a 9x13 inch baking dish, which will help prevent sticking and make cleaning up easier. While the oven warms up, grab a skillet and place it over medium heat. Cook the chorizo until it's fully browned. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, drain any excess fat—nobody wants a greasy casserole—and set the chorizo aside for later.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chorizo, frozen hash browns, diced bell peppers, onions, Pepper Jack cheese, sour cream, salsa, and cilantro. Don’t forget to throw in the chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper as well. Mix everything together until the ingredients are well-incorporated, ensuring that each bite will be packed with flavor.

Spread this mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish. If you're someone who loves a bit of extra heat, feel free to top the casserole with sliced jalapeños. Then, bake it in your preheated oven for 40-45 minutes. You'll know it's done when the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling at the edges.

Once out of the oven, let it cool for about 5 minutes—this helps it set a bit and makes serving easier. Then, dig in and enjoy!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Hearty and satisfying with a spicy kick
  • Perfect for make-ahead meals or a cozy weekend brunch
  • Easy to customize with your favorite ingredients
  • Combines the best of breakfast and Tex-Mex flavors

Ingredients

2 lbs frozen hash browns
1 lb ground chorizo sausage
1 cup diced bell peppers
1 cup diced onions
2 cups shredded Pepper Jack cheese
1 cup sour cream
1/2 cup salsa
1/4 cup chopped cilantro
2 tsp chili powder
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/4 cup sliced jalapeños (optional for spice)

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
2. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the chorizo until fully browned. Drain excess fat and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine the hash browns, cooked chorizo, bell peppers, onions, Pepper Jack cheese, sour cream, salsa, cilantro, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until everything is well incorporated.
4. Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
5. Optional: Top with sliced jalapeños for extra heat.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is cooked through.
7. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.

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