Hashbrown Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining creamy, cheesy goodness with the satisfying texture of hash brown potatoes. This dish is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a hearty side for dinner. Its rich, savory flavors and gooey cheese make it a crowd-pleaser that’s always a hit at family gatherings and potlucks.
My love for Hashbrown Casserole began during family holidays, where it was a staple on the breakfast table. The aroma of baking potatoes, onions, and cheese wafting through the house always signaled that a special meal was on its way. This recipe, with its simple yet flavorful ingredients, captures the essence of those cherished moments. I’m excited to share it with you, hoping it becomes a favorite in your home as well.
Ingredients
30 oz frozen shredded hash brown potatoes, thawed
2 tbsp olive oil
1 yellow onion, diced
3 large garlic cloves, minced
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk (reduced fat can be used)
1 cup chicken stock
1 cup sour cream
8 oz shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 1/2 tbsp minced parsley (dried parsley can be used if needed)
Salt, to taste
Fresh cracked black pepper, to taste
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (for topping)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Dish
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). This ensures the oven is at the right temperature when you’re ready to bake the casserole.
Prepare the Baking Dish:
Grease a 9×13-inch casserole baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray. This prevents the casserole from sticking and makes for easier cleanup.
Step 2: Cook the Onions and Garlic
Heat the Oil:
Preheat a medium pot over medium heat on the stove-top. Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil and let it heat through.
Saute the Onions:
Add the diced yellow onion to the pot. Saute the onions, stirring occasionally, until they start to brown. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
Add the Garlic:
Smash and mince 3 large garlic cloves. Add the minced garlic to the onions and stir. Saute for another minute or until the garlic is fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce
Add the Flour:
Sprinkle 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour over the sautéed onions and garlic. Stir well to coat the onions and garlic with the flour. Cook for about 1 minute to eliminate the raw flour taste.
Add the Chicken Stock and Milk:
Slowly pour in 1 cup of chicken stock, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Once the stock is fully incorporated, slowly pour in 2 cups of whole milk while continuing to stir. The mixture should start to thicken as it heats.
Incorporate the Sour Cream and Cheese:
Stir in 1 cup of sour cream until fully combined. Add 8 oz of shredded sharp cheddar cheese to the mixture. Continue stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Season the Sauce:
Season the sauce with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Stir in 1 1/2 tablespoons of minced parsley. Taste the sauce to ensure it is well-seasoned.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Combine Hash Browns and Cheese Sauce:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed hash brown potatoes with the prepared cheese sauce. Stir until the hash browns are evenly coated with the sauce.
Spread the Mixture in the Baking Dish:
Pour the hash brown and cheese sauce mixture into the prepared 9×13-inch baking dish. Use a spatula to spread the mixture evenly throughout the dish.
Add the Topping:
Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. This will create a delicious, cheesy crust as it bakes.
Step 5: Bake the Casserole
Bake the Casserole:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. The casserole is done when it is browned on top and bubbly around the edges.
Cool Slightly Before Serving:
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes before serving. This helps the casserole set and makes it easier to slice and serve.
Variations and Substitutions
Hashbrown Casserole is a versatile dish that can be easily adapted to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. Here are some variations and substitutions to consider:
Vegetarian Option: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock to make a vegetarian version of this casserole.
Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to thicken the sauce.
Healthier Option: Use reduced-fat milk and sour cream to cut down on calories and fat without sacrificing flavor.
Additional Vegetables: Add diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the cheese sauce for added nutrition and flavor.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeno to the cheese sauce for a bit of heat.
Different Cheeses: Experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack, Gruyere, or Colby for a unique flavor profile.
Conclusion
Hashbrown Casserole is a comforting and satisfying dish that brings together the best of creamy, cheesy flavors with the delightful texture of hash brown potatoes. Its simplicity and deliciousness make it a perfect choice for any meal, from breakfast to dinner. The ease of preparation and the flexibility to adapt the recipe to suit your tastes and dietary needs make it a must-have in your recipe repertoire.
Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just as a comforting weeknight meal, this casserole is sure to please everyone at the table. Enjoy the rich, savory flavors and the heartwarming memories that come with sharing this classic dish with your loved ones.
