Craving something spicy, cheesy, and utterly satisfying? This Unique Spicy Hash Brown Casserole brings a delightful kick to a comforting classic, making it perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner. With a crispy, buttery topping and a creamy, savory filling, it's sure to become a family favorite.
The backbone of this dish is definitely the frozen hash browns. They provide that hearty, starchy base everyone loves in a casserole. The spicy sausage brings a savory, satisfying heat that pairs beautifully with our other flavors. Shredded cheddar cheese adds richness, while diced jalapeños offer an extra kick for spice lovers. Chopped green onions give a fresh, slightly sharp contrast to the creamy texture. We use a can of cream of mushroom soup to bind everything together, along with sour cream and milk, creating a luscious sauce. For seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder enhance the overall flavor profile. Finally, butter mixed with crushed cornflakes gives us that perfect crunchy topping.
This casserole pairs wonderfully with a side of fresh fruit for breakfast or a crisp green salad for lunch or dinner. It also complements a nice, cold glass of lemonade or iced tea. For a brunch spread, serve with scrambled eggs and bacon on the side.
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures it's hot and ready when you finish assembling the casserole. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and milk until smooth. Add the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Next, fold in the cooked sausage, jalapeños, green onions, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until everything is well combined and evenly distributed. Now, it's time to bring in the frozen hash browns. Gently fold them into the mixture, ensuring they're completely coated with the creamy sauce.
Grease a 9x13 inch casserole dish to prevent sticking. Pour the hash brown mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top, covering the surface generously.
In a separate small bowl, combine the melted butter with the crushed cornflakes. Mix until the cornflakes are well coated. This step is crucial for that golden, crispy topping. Sprinkle the buttery cornflake mixture evenly over the cheese layer.
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. You're looking for a golden brown and crispy top. Once done, let it cool for about 10 minutes before serving—this helps the casserole set a bit, making it easier to cut into servings.
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