Cheesy hash brown potatoes are an easy side or main course. Only a few simple ingredients and minimal prep are needed to serve this crowd-pleasing dish!
Once you try this cheesy hash brown potato casserole you will find yourself turning to it again and again. Though the hash browns might make you think “breakfast”, this dish is also a lovely option for lunch or even a light dinner served with a green salad!
Ingredients for Cheesy Hash Brown Potatoes
- Frozen shredded hash browns: Â Using store-bought shredded potatoes as a base for this cheesy hash brown potato bake saves the time and effort of prepping potatoes from scratch. Do make sure they’re completely thawed before combining them with the other ingredients.
- Condensed cream of potato soup:Â Cream of potato soup contributes rich flavor and a creamy texture to this dish.
- Sour cream:Â Sour cream adds richness, moisture and a subtle tang.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Shredded cheddar contributes big flavor and melty goodness to the body of this casserole. A layer on top yields a golden brown, bubbly crust that is irresistible! Use medium, sharp, or extra sharp, whatever your preference.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Who can argue with two kinds of cheese? Sharp Parmesan is the ideal counterpart to the milder cheddar.
- Sliced green onions (optional):Â A garnish of sliced green onions provides a pop of color and sharp flavor to this cheesy hash brown potatoes recipe.
Directions
Step 1: Pre-heat the oven and prepare your baking dish
Pre-heat the oven to 350°F. Lightly grease a 3-quart glass or ceramic baking dish.
Step 2: Mix casserole ingredients together
In a large bowl combine the shredded hash browns, cream of potato soup, sour cream, 1-3/4 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese and the Parmesan cheese.
Step 3: Pour mixture into your prepared baking dish
Transfer the combined ingredients into your prepared baking dish. Use the back of a spoon to smooth it evenly and top with the remaining 1/4 cup of shredded cheddar.
Step 4: Bake the casserole
Bake the casserole, uncovered, until golden brown and bubbly, about 40 to 45 minutes. Let stand for five minutes before serving. If desired, sprinkle with sliced green onions.
Cheesy Hash Brown Potatoes Variations
- Add a crunchy topping:Â Add a crunchy topping such as crushed cornflakes, potato chips or Ritz crackers tossed with some melted butter. Crispy French fried onions are a classic casserole topping that would be a delicious addition to this cheesy hashbrown potatoes recipe.
- Mix in your favorite vegetables: This casserole is an ideal vehicle for using up any leftover vegetables you have on hand. Add steamed or sautéed chopped bell peppers, broccoli or onion to the potato mixture prior to baking.
- Swap out the sour cream:Â In place of the sour cream try full fat Greek yogurt or prepared French onion dip. You can swap all of it or try a mix!
How to Store Cheesy Hash Brown Potatoes
Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for two to three days. Be sure to cool completely before covering and storing.
Can you make cheesy hash brown potatoes ahead of time?
You can prepare this cheesy hash brown potato bake up to one day in advance. Combine your ingredients and spread into your prepared baking dish. Cover and refrigerate overnight. Bake covered, for 40 minutes, then remove the cover and continue baking until hot and the cheese is melted and bubbling.
Can you freeze cheesy hash brown potatoes?
To freeze cheesy hash brown potatoes, cool completely and store, covered, in airtight containers. Thaw in the fridge overnight prior to reheating.
Cheesy Hash Brown Potatoes Tips
What side dishes go well with this recipe?
Depending on the time of day, you can serve several different side dishes with this recipe. For a brunch or breakfast serve up your favorite eggs, sliced fruit or a big green salad. You can serve this casserole as a main course for lunch or dinner, or as a side dish to accompany almost any protein, such as chicken or steak.
Can this dish be scaled down?
If you’re not serving a large crowd you can scale this recipe in one of two ways. Either halve the ingredients and use a smaller baking dish, or divide the mixture between two baking dishes and freeze one to serve at a later date.
What is the best container to store cheesy hash brown potatoes in?
You can use any airtight container to store this dish, but to make it even easier to reheat, store it in an ovenproof dish or container. Once thawed it can go straight into the oven in the dish it was stored in.
