Hash Brown Casserole

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There’s something so comforting about a warm, creamy hash brown casserole coming out of the oven — golden on top, bubbling around the edges, and filling the kitchen with that cozy smell of cheese and onions. This simple dish is a true crowd-pleaser and one of those recipes every homemaker should have in her back pocket. It’s quick to assemble, can be made ahead, and uses affordable pantry and freezer staples that most of us already keep on hand.

Whether you’re hosting brunch, feeding a crowd, or just want something hearty to go alongside dinner, this hash brown casserole never disappoints.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple ingredients – Just frozen hash browns, cream of mushroom soup, cheese, sour cream, and onion. Nothing fancy, just delicious.
• Feeds a crowd – It makes a big dish perfect for gatherings or family meals.
• Make-ahead friendly – Mix it up the night before, refrigerate, and bake when ready.
• Versatile – Great as a side, main, or part of a brunch spread.

When to Make Hash Brown Casserole

One of the best things about this recipe is how well it fits into so many occasions. Here are a few of my favourites:

Christmas Morning

You can assemble it the night before, cover, and pop it in the fridge. On Christmas morning, just slide it into the oven while everyone opens gifts. By the time you’re done, breakfast is ready—warm, cheesy, and comforting.

Potlucks

It’s inexpensive, easy to prepare, and always a hit. Because it makes a large batch, you can feed a crowd without spending all day in the kitchen. Just bake and go!

Sunday Brunch

Every brunch table needs something savoury to balance out the muffins and fruit salad. Hash brown casserole pairs beautifully with bacon, eggs, or a breakfast sausage bake.

As a Side Dish

Serve it alongside baked ham for Easter, Thanksgiving, or Sunday dinner. The creamy, cheesy potatoes complement savoury meats perfectly.

For Breakfast-for-Dinner Nights

Top a scoop with a fried egg and crispy bacon for a simple but satisfying weeknight meal that everyone loves.

Ingredients

• 1 bag (about 2 lbs) frozen cubed hash browns, thawed
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• 1 cup sour cream
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Butter or cooking spray, for greasing the dish

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Lightly fry the onion until glossy.
3. In a large bowl, combine thawed hash browns, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, diced onion, and 1½ cups of the shredded cheese. Stir until evenly mixed.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
6. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheese over the top.
7. Bake uncovered for 45–50 minutes, or until hot and bubbly with a golden top.
8. Let cool for 5–10 minutes before serving.

Tips and Variations

• Add crunch: Sprinkle crushed cornflakes or breadcrumbs over the top before baking for a crispy texture.
• Make it meaty: Stir in diced ham, cooked bacon, or breakfast sausage.
• Switch up the soup: Cream of chicken or cream of celery soup works just as well.
• Freeze ahead: Assemble, wrap tightly, and freeze before baking. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as directed.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or place the whole dish back in the oven at 325°F until warmed through.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your hash brown casserole alongside:

• Scrambled or fried eggs
• Ham or sausage
• Fresh fruit salad
• Homemade muffins or cinnamon rolls

It’s also a great way to stretch a smaller portion of meat or make breakfast-for-dinner feel a little more special.