Hash Brown Casserole
This easy 4-Ingredient Hash Brown Casserole is the kind of old-fashioned comfort food that has earned a permanent place at family gatherings, holiday dinners, church potlucks, and weekend brunches. Made with frozen shredded hash browns, creamy soup, sour cream, and plenty of cheddar cheese, this easy hash brown casserole requires just a few ingredients and very little prep.
The result is a creamy, cheesy potato casserole with golden-brown edges and a satisfying texture. It is especially convenient when you need an easy side dish for a crowd because everything can be mixed in one bowl and baked in a 9×13-inch dish.
Ingredients
- 1 bag (30 oz) frozen shredded hash brown potatoes, thawed
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
How to Make Hash Brown Casserole
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Thaw the hash browns completely. Place them in a clean kitchen towel and gently squeeze out as much excess moisture as possible. This important step helps prevent a watery casserole.
- Add the thawed hash browns, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and shredded cheddar cheese to a large mixing bowl.
- Stir until the potatoes are evenly coated and the cheese is distributed throughout the mixture.
- Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
- Remove the foil and continue baking for another 20 to 25 minutes, or until the casserole is hot throughout and the edges and top are golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This allows it to firm up slightly and makes serving easier.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Hash Brown Casserole
- Only 4 ingredients: A simple recipe made with everyday ingredients.
- Easy preparation: Everything comes together in one mixing bowl.
- Great for crowds: A 9×13-inch casserole makes about 8 servings.
- Make-ahead friendly: Assemble it the day before and bake when needed.
- Creamy and cheesy: Sour cream, condensed soup, and cheddar create a rich, comforting texture.
- Perfect for gatherings: Ideal for potlucks, holiday meals, family reunions, brunches, and Sunday dinners.
- Budget-friendly: Frozen hash browns make this an affordable potato side dish.
Tips for the Best Hash Brown Casserole
Remove excess moisture: Don’t skip squeezing the thawed hash browns. Too much water can make the casserole loose and prevent the edges from browning properly.
Make it extra cheesy: Reserve about ½ cup of the cheddar cheese and sprinkle it over the casserole after removing the foil. Bake uncovered until the cheese is melted and golden.
Make it ahead: Assemble the casserole, cover it, and refrigerate overnight. When baking directly from the refrigerator, allow a little extra time for the center to heat through.
Try a different soup: Cream of mushroom soup can replace the cream of chicken soup for a slightly earthier flavor.
Let it rest: Allowing the casserole to sit for about 10 minutes after baking helps it set and makes it easier to serve.
What to Serve With Hash Brown Casserole
This cheesy hash brown casserole works beautifully as a side dish with roasted chicken, meatloaf, grilled beef, turkey, scrambled eggs, green beans, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad. It also makes a convenient addition to a brunch or holiday breakfast spread.
