Name: Grandma's Hash Brown Casserole
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 70 min
Ingredients: 2 pounds frozen hash brown potatoes (thawed); 10.5 ounces condensed cream of chicken soup; 2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese; 8 ounces sour cream; 1 cup butter (melted, divided); ½ cup chopped onion; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon ground black pepper; 1 cup crushed cornflakes

Introduction to Grandma's Hash Brown Casserole

If you’re looking for a comfort food dish that can satisfy a crowd, Grandma's Hash Brown Casserole is your answer. This delightful recipe brings together creamy, cheesy hash browns topped with a crispy cornflake crust—perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even as a hearty side dish. What makes it even more special is that it’s a treasured family recipe, handed down with love from generations of Kentucky grandmas who know how to cook with heart.

What makes Grandma's Hash Brown Casserole a must-try?

There are plenty of reasons to love this casserole! The combination of tender hash browns and rich cheddar cheese creates a comforting texture that melts in your mouth. The addition of chicken ham or turkey bacon can bring in flavor variations, making it suitable for different diets—like a meatless version with cream of mushroom soup instead. Plus, with just 10 minutes of prep time, you can easily whip this up for a family gathering or potluck.

Each serving provides not only hearty satisfaction but also nostalgic warmth that reminds us of home-cooked meals. As you gather around the table, don’t be surprised if this becomes a new family favorite—much like it did at my friend’s house! For a deeper dive into the magic of casseroles, check out this round-up of delicious casserole recipes that will elevate your dinner game!

Ingredients for Grandma's Hash Brown Casserole

Essential ingredients for the perfect casserole

When you're preparing Grandma's Hash Brown Casserole, here are the key ingredients you simply can't skip:

Frozen Hash Brown Potatoes: A 2-pound package, thawed, serves as the hearty base.
Condensed Cream of Chicken Soup: One 10.5-ounce can adds rich creaminess.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Two cups provide that gooey, melty goodness.
Sour Cream: An 8-ounce container adds a touch of tang.
Butter: One cup, melted and divided, enhances the overall flavor.
Chopped Onion: Half a cup adds a sweet, aromatic base.
Seasoning: Use ½ teaspoon of salt and ½ teaspoon of black pepper to bring everything together.
Cornflakes: A cup of crushed cornflakes creates that delightful crunchy topping.

Optional ingredients for customization

Feel free to get creative with your Grandma's Hash Brown Casserole! Consider adding:

Protein Options: Turkey bacon or chicken ham can elevate the dish.
Vegetable Additions: Think about mixing in peas, bell peppers, or mushrooms.
Alternative Toppings: Instead of cornflakes, try crushed buttery round crackers or potato chips for a different crunch.

For more inspiration and variations, check out this article on creative casserole ideas!

Step-by-step preparation of Grandma's Hash Brown Casserole

Preparing Grandma's Hash Brown Casserole is a delightful experience that wraps you in nostalgia with every spoonful. Let’s break down the process step by step to ensure your casserole turns out perfectly.

Gather and prep your ingredients

Before diving into the cooking, it’s crucial to gather all your ingredients. You’ll need:

1 (2-pound) package frozen hash brown potatoes, thawed
1 (10.5-ounce) can condensed cream of chicken soup
2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese
1 (8-ounce) container sour cream
1 cup butter, melted, divided
½ cup chopped onion
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon ground black pepper
1 cup crushed cornflakes

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). This ensures it’s hot and ready to create that perfect golden crust when your casserole is ready. Give your ingredients a quick chop if any need it, especially the onion, so everything incorporates nicely.

Mix the ingredients together

Now that you’re all set, grab a large mixing bowl and begin the fun part! Add the thawed hash browns, shredded Cheddar cheese, condensed cream of chicken soup, sour cream, half of the melted butter, chopped onion, salt, and black pepper.

Using a spatula or wooden spoon, mix everything together until well combined. This step is where you’ll start to see the magic unfold as your ingredients come together for Grandma's Hash Brown Casserole. The mixtures should feel creamy and cheesy—just what you want!

Transfer the mixture to the baking dish

Once everything is mixed and looking delicious, take a 9x13-inch baking dish and lightly grease it with some non-stick spray or a little leftover melted butter. Carefully transfer your mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly. A nice, even layer will help it cook through perfectly.

Add the topping and drizzle with butter

To bring that classic crunch to your casserole, it’s time to sprinkle the crushed cornflakes over the top. This adds not just texture but that signature golden finish we all love. Make sure to cover the entire surface. Finally, drizzle the remaining melted butter evenly over the cornflakes; this will help them crisp up beautifully.

Bake until golden and bubbly

Pop your casserole into the preheated oven and allow it to bake for about 1 hour to 1 hour and 30 minutes. Keep an eye on it, as you want that golden-brown top to form and hear that bubbling excitement as it cooks! Once it reaches a deliciously golden hue and is bubbling around the edges, you know it’s ready to deliver pure comfort food joy.

Once finished, serve up your Grandma's Hash Brown Casserole to family and friends and watch them savor every bite. It’s more than just a dish—it's a tradition that brings people together!

Variations on Grandma's Hash Brown Casserole

When it comes to Grandma's Hash Brown Casserole, the fun doesn’t stop at the original recipe! You can easily tweak it to make it your own.

Creamy Mushroom or Celery Variation

For a delicious twist, consider using a creamy mushroom or celery soup instead of the classic cream of chicken. This change not only caters to vegetarian diets but also enhances the casserole with a rich umami flavor. Adding sautéed mushrooms or celery can elevate the dish further, giving it a hearty texture that will impress guests.

Adding Protein - Turkey Bacon or Chicken Ham

Want to make your Grandma's Hash Brown Casserole even more satisfying? Mix in some crispy turkey bacon or diced chicken ham for a protein boost. These additions not only add flavor but also turn this side dish into a filling main course. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover meat!

Experimenting with these variations can make your casserole unique and special. What’s your favorite twist?

Cooking notes for Grandma's Hash Brown Casserole

Tips to make it even creamier
To take your Grandma's Hash Brown Casserole to the next level, consider mixing in an extra layer of sour cream or even a splash of heavy cream into the filling. This will amp up the creaminess and create a luscious texture that everyone will love. You can also experiment with using flavored cream soups if you want to add a new depth of flavor.

Best practices for even cooking
For perfectly cooked casserole, ensure your hash browns are evenly thawed. If they’re still icy in places, some parts may cook faster than others. Spread the mixture evenly in your baking dish, and don’t skip the preheating step—it's crucial for achieving that golden-brown top. Keeping an eye on the casserole near the end of the cooking time will help you achieve that beautiful finish every time!

For more tips on casseroles, check out Serious Eats on Baking Techniques.

Serving Suggestions for Grandma's Hash Brown Casserole

Perfect Sides and Accompaniments

Enhance your Grandma's Hash Brown Casserole with a variety of side dishes! Try serving it alongside:

Fresh fruit salad for a refreshing contrast.
Roasted vegetables, like broccoli or asparagus, adding vibrant color and nutrition.
Turkey bacon or chicken ham for a hearty breakfast or brunch feel.
A simple mixed green salad to balance the creamy richness of the casserole.

Ideal Occasions for Serving the Casserole

This delightful casserole shines at any gathering! It's perfect for:

Weekend brunches with friends and family who crave comfort food.
Holiday celebrations, where it can serve as a crowd-pleaser.
Potlucks, where you want a dish that travels well and is easy to share.

No matter the occasion, Grandma's Hash Brown Casserole is sure to be a hit!

Time breakdown for Grandma's Hash Brown Casserole

Preparation time

You’ll need about 10 minutes to gather all your ingredients and whip up this delicious casserole. Just a little chopping and mixing, and you're on your way to a comforting meal!

Cooking time

Once it's in the oven, let it bake for 1 hour. Keep an eye on it—that golden brown top is what you’re aiming for, so you may need an extra 30 minutes if you prefer a crispier finish.

Total time

All in all, you’re looking at 1 hour and 10 minutes from start to serving. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a potluck!

By the way, if you're curious about similar comforting dishes, check out Taste of Home for more inspiration. Who knows, you might find your new favorite recipe!

Nutritional Facts for Grandma's Hash Brown Casserole

Calories per serving
Each serving of Grandma's Hash Brown Casserole packs in about 338 calories. While it’s rich and hearty, it’s important to enjoy this dish in moderation, especially if you’re mindful of your caloric intake.

Key nutritional information
This delightful casserole provides a variety of nutrients, including:

Total Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 18g
Cholesterol: 71mg
Sodium: 523mg
Total Carbohydrates: 17g
Dietary Fiber: 1g

Rich in comfort food appeal, this casserole is perfect for gatherings and cold nights. If you’re looking to modify the ingredients to accommodate different dietary preferences, consider using cream of mushroom soup or even chicken ham for added flavor without compromising on taste. For a crunchier topping, feel free to replace cornflakes with crushed buttery crackers or potato chips.

For a closer look at additional nutrition tips and benefits of ingredients, check out resources from Nutrition.gov or the USDA Food Data Central. Enjoy making Grandma's Hash Brown Casserole, a dish that boasts tradition and flavor in every bite!

FAQs about Grandma's Hash Brown Casserole

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! Preparing Grandma's Hash Brown Casserole in advance is a fantastic idea, especially for busy days or gatherings. You can assemble the casserole and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap. If you're looking to prepare it even earlier, you can freeze the unbaked casserole for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it, simply thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.

What are some good substitutes for sour cream?

If sour cream isn’t your thing or you’re out, fear not! Some tasty substitutes for Grandma's Hash Brown Casserole include Greek yogurt, cottage cheese, or even cream cheese. Each will lend a different flavor and texture, so pick one that excites your taste buds.

How can I store leftovers properly?

To keep your Grandma's Hash Brown Casserole fresh, let it cool completely before storing. Transfer leftover portions into an airtight container and pop it in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for up to three months. When reheating, try using the oven for the best results, as it keeps that lovely crispy top! For tips on reheating, check out this helpful guide.

Conclusion on Grandma's Hash Brown Casserole

Finding comfort in Grandma's Hash Brown Casserole is easy! This dish blends creamy and cheesy goodness with a satisfying crunch from the cornflakes. Ideal for gatherings or a cozy family dinner, it’s a recipe worth keeping close. Trust me, once you taste it, you'll cherish this classic!