The aroma of bubbling cheese mixed with golden-brown hashbrowns fills the kitchen as you imagine the first bite of this cheesy hashbrown casserole. It’s not just a side dish; it’s a warm hug on your plate that whispers sweet nothings about cozy family gatherings and lazy Sunday brunches.

Every time I make this dish, my family’s eyes light up like it’s Christmas morning. It’s the kind of recipe that brings everyone together—whether it’s Thanksgiving or just a regular Tuesday night—and delivers comfort with every cheesy forkful.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This cheesy hashbrown casserole is incredibly easy to prepare, making it a go-to weeknight meal.
- The flavor profile is rich and creamy with a crispy topping that everyone will adore.
- Its visual appeal makes it the star of any dinner table.
- Perfect for breakfast or dinner; you can serve it anytime!
My friend once declared my cheesy hashbrown casserole “the best thing since sliced bread,” which is high praise coming from someone who once burned water!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Frozen Hashbrowns: Opt for shredded or diced; they’re the backbone of this dish and provide that delightful texture.
- Cheddar Cheese: Use sharp cheddar for a bold flavor that melts beautifully into the casserole.
- Cream of Chicken Soup: This adds creaminess and depth; feel free to use a low-fat version if desired.
- Sour Cream: It gives an extra tangy kick while keeping everything moist and luscious.
- Onion Powder: A sprinkle of onion powder enhances the savory notes without overwhelming the dish.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to taste; don’t skip these for maximum flavor!
- Butter: Melted butter adds richness and helps create that coveted crispy top when baked.
- Panko Breadcrumbs: These are optional but recommended if you want an extra crunchy topping!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your casserole bakes evenly and gets that lovely golden crust.
Mix the Base Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine frozen hashbrowns, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, cheddar cheese, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well combined.
Prepare Your Baking Dish: Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and spray it with nonstick cooking spray. Pour in your mix and spread it evenly with a spatula.
Top with Butter and Breadcrumbs: Melt butter in a small bowl and drizzle it over the top of your mixture. If using panko breadcrumbs, sprinkle them on top for added crunch.
Bake Away: Place your casserole in the oven and bake for about 45-50 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top. You’ll know it’s done when the edges start to crisp up nicely.
Let it Cool Slightly: Once baked to perfection, pull it out of the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes before serving. This will help everything set up nicely so you can cut perfect squares.
Enjoy every cheesy bite of your homemade masterpiece!
This cheesy hashbrown casserole will undoubtedly become a staple in your household—just wait until everyone asks for seconds (and maybe thirds)!
You Must Know
- Cheesy hashbrown casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining crispy potatoes and gooey cheese.
- It’s perfect for brunch or a cozy dinner.
- The delightful aroma of baking potatoes will have your family gathering around the table in no time.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Layer and mix your ingredients efficiently to ensure even cooking and maximum flavor.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to add sautéed onions, bell peppers, or crispy bacon bits for extra flavor. Experimenting keeps the dish exciting every time.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for best results.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use frozen hashbrowns for convenience; they save prep time while still delivering deliciousness.
- Grate your own cheese for a fresher taste that melts beautifully.
- Bake until golden brown for that irresistible crunchy top layer, enhancing both texture and flavor.
A friend once told me this cheesy hashbrown casserole saved his Thanksgiving when the turkey turned out dry! It’s become everyone’s favorite dish since then.
FAQ
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hashbrowns?
Yes, but you’ll need to shred them and cook until tender first.
How can I make my cheesy hashbrown casserole spicier?
Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to kick up the heat.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble it a day before, refrigerate, then bake it fresh on serving day.

Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
Description
Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole is a creamy, crunchy dish that brings comfort and joy to any meal. Perfect for brunch or dinner, it’s a family favorite everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 1 (30 oz) package frozen hashbrowns
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ cup butter, melted
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine frozen hashbrowns, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, cheddar cheese, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well mixed.
- Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray and spread the mixture evenly.
- Drizzle melted butter over the top; sprinkle panko breadcrumbs if desired.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top. Allow to cool for 10 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Comfort Food
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece (approximately 150g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: Add sautéed onions or crispy bacon for extra flavor. For a spicy kick, mix in diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper. Prepare the casserole a day in advance; refrigerate overnight and bake fresh before serving.