If you’re craving a comforting dish that hugs you from the inside out, look no further than Grandma’s Hashbrown Casserole Recipe. This beloved classic combines crispy, cheesy goodness with creamy potatoes for the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Whether it’s holiday gatherings or a cozy weekend dinner, this casserole has a way of turning simple ingredients into magic, making every bite taste like a warm family memory.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Grandma’s Hashbrown Casserole Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, from the creamy texture to the crunchy topping and that irresistible hint of savory goodness. You’ll love how these straightforward pantry staples come together to create something truly special.
- Shredded Hashbrowns: The base of the dish; frozen works perfectly for convenience, but fresh shredded potatoes pack the best flavor and texture.
- Cheddar Cheese: Adds sharpness and gooey richness; reserve some to sprinkle on top for an extra cheesy crust.
- Mozzarella Cheese: Optional but highly recommended to boost cheesiness and melt-in-your-mouth appeal.
- Cream of Chicken or Mushroom Soup: Acts as the creamy binder that holds everything together with a savory depth.
- Sour Cream: Adds tang and creaminess that balances the richness perfectly.
- Melted Butter: Infuses the casserole with buttery flavor and helps the topping crisp beautifully.
- Diced Onions: Provides a subtle sharpness and texture contrast harmonious with the potatoes.
- Garlic Powder: Brings warm, aromatic notes that lift the entire dish.
- Salt and Black Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance all the other flavors.
- Crushed Cornflakes, Ritz Crackers or Breadcrumbs: Creates a crunchy, golden topping that’s pure comfort food bliss.
- Optional Add-Ins: Think crispy bacon or chopped ham for meaty richness, sliced peppers or jalapenos for a little kick, and green onions or chives for fresh vibrancy.
How to Make Grandma’s Hashbrown Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by setting your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Grease a 9 by 13-inch casserole dish generously with butter or a non-stick spray. This step ensures your casserole won’t stick and guarantees an easy clean-up.
Step 2: Get Ready the Potato Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded hashbrowns, cream of chicken or mushroom soup, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, melted butter, diced onions, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together until the mixture is creamy and well blended. This stage is where the dish starts coming alive with flavor and that luscious creamy texture.
Step 3: Transfer to Baking Dish
Pour the cheesy potato mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. This gives your casserole an even bake and ensures every spoonful will have that perfect blend of flavors and textures.
Step 4: Prepare the Topping
In a separate bowl, mix the crushed cornflakes (or your preferred topping substitute) with 2 tablespoons of melted butter. This buttery, crunchy topping will add a golden finish that’s irresistible. For an extra cheesy touch, sprinkle some of the reserved cheddar cheese over the top before adding the crumbs.
Step 5: Bake the Casserole
Place your casserole in the preheated oven and bake, covered, for 45 to 50 minutes. You’re looking for bubbly, golden perfection. Keep an eye near the 40-minute mark—if the topping starts to brown too quickly, tent the casserole loosely with foil and finish baking. This little trick keeps everything cooking evenly without burning your crunchy crust.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once out of the oven, let your casserole rest for 5 to 10 minutes. This resting time helps it set slightly, making slicing and serving a breeze. Whether paired alongside roast meats or enjoyed on its own with a fresh salad, this dish is simply pure comfort on a plate that everyone will go back for seconds.
How to Serve Grandma’s Hashbrown Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle freshly chopped chives or green onions over the top just before serving for a pop of color and subtle oniony brightness. A few crispy bacon bits or a dash of smoked paprika can add extra depth and visual appeal that makes this dish shine on any table.
Side Dishes
Grandma’s Hashbrown Casserole Recipe pairs beautifully with roast chicken, tender turkey, or juicy baked ham. It’s also delicious served alongside steamed green beans or a crisp garden salad to balance its richness with freshness.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn this classic casserole into a festive centerpiece by baking in individual ramekins for single servings or topping with an egg and baking for a breakfast twist. You can even layer it with sautéed mushrooms or spinach to add color and nutrition without sacrificing comfort.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It maintains its creamy texture and flavor beautifully, making for an easy next-day meal.
Freezing
This casserole freezes wonderfully. Place it in a freezer-safe dish or wrap tightly with foil and plastic wrap. It will keep for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best results.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until warmed through and the topping is crisp again, about 20-25 minutes. Alternatively, a microwave can work for a quicker option, though the crunchy topping may soften.
FAQs
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hashbrowns?
Absolutely! Fresh shredded potatoes bring a lovely texture and flavor but make sure to squeeze out excess moisture to avoid a soggy casserole.
Is cream of chicken soup necessary for this recipe?
While it adds creaminess and flavor, cream of mushroom soup is a great alternative, especially if you prefer a vegetarian option or want a slightly earthier taste.
Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
Yes, simply omit any meat add-ins and stick to the mushroom soup version. You can also add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra flavor and nutrients.
How can I make the casserole extra crispy on top?
Using crushed cornflakes or buttery breadcrumbs topped with extra cheese and cooking uncovered for the last 10 minutes will give you that coveted golden crunch.
Is there a way to make this healthier without losing flavor?
Swapping sour cream for Greek yogurt, reducing butter slightly, and adding veggies can lighten the casserole while keeping all the comforting flavors you love.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly comforting about Grandma’s Hashbrown Casserole Recipe that brings people together around the table. Its warm, cheesy goodness makes any meal feel like a special occasion. I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this recipe a try and create your own moments of joy and nostalgia with every serving.
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Grandma’s Hashbrown Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Grandma’s Hashbrown Casserole is a comforting, cheesy baked dish combining shredded hashbrowns, creamy soup, sour cream, and a crispy cornflake topping. Perfect as a hearty side or main course for winter meals, it’s easy to prepare and loved by all ages.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 (30 oz) bulk frozen shredded hashbrowns (approximately 6 cups fresh shredded potato can be used)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken or cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 1/2 cup diced onions
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Topping
- 1 1/2 cups finely crushed cornflakes, Ritz crackers, or breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (for topping)
- Additional shredded cheddar cheese for topping (optional)
Optional Add-Ins
- Crunchy bacon or diced ham
- Finely chopped green onions or chives
- Sliced peppers or jalapenos for heat
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Potato Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the shredded hashbrowns, cream of chicken or mushroom soup, sour cream, 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (reserve some for topping), melted butter, diced onions, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until the mixture is creamy and well combined.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the prepared potato mixture evenly into the greased 9×13-inch casserole dish, spreading it out smoothly.
- Prepare the Topping: In a separate medium bowl, mix the crushed cornflakes (or breadcrumbs/crackers) with 2 tablespoons melted butter until evenly coated. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the casserole. Optionally, add the remaining shredded cheddar cheese on top for extra cheesiness.
- Bake the Casserole: Bake the casserole in the preheated oven, covered, for 45-50 minutes or until bubbly and the topping turns golden brown. If the topping browns too quickly (around 40 minutes), loosely cover it with foil to finish baking without burning.
- Serve and Enjoy: Remove from oven and let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes to set, making it easier to serve. Pair with roast meats or enjoy as a main dish with a fresh salad for a satisfying winter meal.
Notes
- Fresh shredded potatoes can be used instead of frozen hashbrowns; ensure excess moisture is drained.
- For a vegetarian version, use cream of mushroom soup and omit optional meat add-ins.
- Adjust seasoning to taste; some prefer adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for a kick.
- Use gluten-free cornflakes or breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven for best results.
