Hash Brown Casserole
A classic American hash brown casserole with cheddar, sour cream, and onion, baked until bubbling and golden. Ideal for brunch, potlucks, or holiday dinners.
By TastyTrails Kitchen · Published · Updated
Jump to RecipeHash brown casserole is a classic American baked side dish made with shredded potatoes, cheddar, sour cream, and a creamy condensed soup base. It is especially popular for holiday meals, church suppers, and potlucks, and is closely related to the style many people know as funeral potatoes.
This version keeps that familiar flavor and texture but tightens up the proportions so it bakes up creamy inside instead of greasy, with enough seasoning to balance the dairy. If your hash browns are still icy, thaw and pat them dry first so the casserole sets properly rather than turning watery.
Ingredients
- 4 tbsp (60 g) unsalted butter, melted, plus more for greasing the dish
- 1/2 cup (75 g) finely chopped yellow onion
- 1 can (10.5 oz/300 g) condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup (240 g) sour cream
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 cups (225 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 bag (30 oz/850 g) frozen shredded hash browns, thawed and patted dry
- 1 cup (25 g) cornflakes, lightly crushed (optional)
- 1 tbsp (14 g) unsalted butter, melted, for the topping (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Heat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly butter a 9x13-inch baking dish. If the hash browns are damp after thawing, pat them dry with paper towels so the casserole bakes up creamy, not watery.
- 2
In a large bowl, whisk together the 4 tbsp melted butter, onion, condensed soup, sour cream, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and 1 1/2 cups (170 g) of the cheddar until evenly combined.
- 3
Fold in the thawed hash browns until all the strands are well coated and no dry patches remain. The mixture should look thick and creamy rather than soupy.
- 4
Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish and smooth the top. Sprinkle over the remaining 1/2 cup (55 g) cheddar.
- 5
If using the topping, toss the crushed cornflakes with the 1 tbsp melted butter and scatter them over the cheese in an even layer. This helps them brown instead of drying out.
- 6
Bake uncovered on the center rack until the casserole is bubbling around the edges and hot all the way through, 40 to 45 minutes.
- 7
For a deeper golden top, broil for 1 to 2 minutes at the end, watching closely so the topping does not burn. Let the casserole stand for 5 to 10 minutes before serving so it sets slightly and scoops neatly.
Tips for the Best Hash Brown Casserole
- Pat thawed hash browns dry before mixing; extra moisture is the main reason this casserole turns loose or watery.
- Sharp cheddar gives better flavor than mild cheddar and balances the richness of the sour cream and soup.
- For a more classic crunchy top, use the buttered cornflake topping; add it only just before baking so it stays crisp.
- You can assemble the casserole up to 1 day ahead, cover, and refrigerate. Let it sit at room temperature for 20 to 30 minutes before baking.
- Cream of mushroom soup can replace cream of chicken if needed, though the flavor will be slightly earthier.
Storage and Reheating
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Freeze baked portions for up to 2 months and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Reheat covered in a 325°F (165°C) oven until hot, or microwave individual portions until steaming.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen hash browns without thawing them first?
It is better to thaw them first. If used straight from frozen, they release excess moisture and the casserole may bake unevenly or stay watery in the center.
Why is my hash brown casserole runny?
The usual causes are wet hash browns, too little bake time, or serving it immediately from the oven. Thaw and dry the potatoes well, bake until bubbling, and rest the casserole for a few minutes before scooping.
Can I make hash brown casserole ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble it up to 24 hours ahead, cover, and refrigerate. Add the cornflake topping just before baking for the best texture.
Can I make this without the cornflake topping?
Yes. The casserole still works well without it and will have a softer cheesy top. If you want crunch, buttered breadcrumbs are another good option.
Quick Info
Prep Time
15 min
Cook Time
50 min
Servings
8
Difficulty
Easy
Nutrition Facts
Per serving (estimated)
