Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole

Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Food

Few dishes bring comfort quite like cheesy hashbrown casserole. With its golden, crispy hashbrowns coated in a rich, creamy cheese sauce, this dish is the ultimate crowd-pleaser.

Whether you’re preparing for a family dinner, holiday feast, or potluck, this simple yet indulgent casserole is always a hit.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Rich and Creamy – A luscious cheese sauce coats every bite.

Crispy and Golden – A perfect contrast of textures with crispy edges and a creamy center.

Versatile – A fantastic side dish for breakfast, brunch, or dinner.

Ingredients and Their Purpose

Main Ingredients:

Thirty ounces of frozen shredded hashbrown potatoes (thawed) – The hearty, crispy base of the casserole.

Two tablespoons of olive oil – Adds flavor and helps sauté the onions and garlic.

One diced yellow onion – Provides a slightly sweet, savory depth.

Three minced garlic cloves – Infuses a bold, aromatic flavor.

One-quarter cup of all-purpose flour – Thickens the cheese sauce for a smooth texture.

Two cups of whole milk – Creates a creamy, velvety sauce.

One cup of chicken stock – Adds savory depth to the sauce.

One cup of sour cream – Enhances creaminess with a subtle tang.

Eight ounces of shredded sharp cheddar cheese – The key to a rich, bold cheesy flavor.

One and a half tablespoons of minced parsley – Adds freshness and color.

Salt and freshly cracked black pepper – Essential for enhancing flavors.

One cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese (for topping) – Creates a golden, bubbly crust.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step One: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to three hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit (one hundred seventy-five degrees Celsius).

Grease a nine-inch by thirteen-inch baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil.

Step Two: Sauté the Aromatics

In a medium-sized pot, heat two tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.

Add the diced onion and sauté for five to seven minutes, until softened and slightly browned.

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional one to two minutes until fragrant.

Step Three: Make the Cheese Sauce

Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the onion mixture, stirring to create a roux.

Gradually pour in the chicken stock, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.

Slowly add the milk, stirring as the sauce thickens.

Once smooth and creamy, stir in the sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, salt, and black pepper.

Allow the cheese to fully melt before removing the sauce from heat.

Stir in minced parsley for a fresh touch.

Step Four: Combine Hashbrowns and Cheese Sauce

In a large mixing bowl, toss the thawed hashbrowns with the prepared cheese sauce.

Stir well to coat the potatoes evenly.

Transfer the mixture to the greased casserole dish, spreading it out smoothly.

Step Five: Add Topping and Bake

Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.

Bake for thirty-five to forty minutes, until golden brown and bubbling.

Step Six: Serve and Enjoy

Let the casserole cool for five to ten minutes before serving.

Enjoy its creamy, cheesy, and crispy perfection!

Pro Tips for the Best Hashbrown Casserole

Thaw the Hashbrowns – This ensures even cooking and the right texture.

Use Fresh Garlic – Freshly minced garlic brings more depth of flavor than garlic powder.

Customize with Toppings – Try adding crumbled bacon, green onions, or paprika for extra flavor.

Let it Rest Before Serving – This helps the casserole set and makes it easier to slice.

Serving Suggestions

This cheesy hashbrown casserole pairs beautifully with:

Roast chicken, steak, or baked ham – A perfect side for hearty main dishes.

Holiday meals – Ideal for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Easter dinners.

A simple green salad – Balances the richness of the dish.

Final Thoughts

This cheesy hashbrown casserole is the ultimate comfort food—easy to make, irresistibly creamy, and always a crowd favorite.

Whether for a casual family dinner or a festive gathering, this dish is guaranteed to please.

Try this recipe today and enjoy a warm, cheesy casserole that will become a staple in your home!