Description

This Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole is a comforting and delicious side dish that’s perfect for any meal, whether it’s a holiday gathering or a weeknight dinner. Creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, it’s sure to become a family favorite. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, this casserole is a crowd-pleaser that pairs well with just about anything.

Ingredients

2 ½–3 pounds russet potatoes
1 cup diced onion
8 ounces shredded cheddar cheese, divided
12 ounces sour cream
¾ cup heavy cream
½ cup melted butter
1 teaspoon chicken base
1 teaspoon pepper
½ teaspoon kosher salt

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven Preheat your oven to 375°F.

Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes Scrub the potatoes and peel them if desired. Shred them using the large side of a box grater.

Step 3: Rinse and Squeeze Place the shredded potatoes in a colander and rinse them thoroughly, then squeeze out any excess water. Transfer the potatoes to a large mixing bowl.

Step 4: Mix with Onions and Cheese Add the diced onions and two-thirds of the shredded cheese to the bowl with the potatoes, and set aside.

Step 5: Prepare the Cream Mixture In another bowl, combine the sour cream, heavy cream, melted butter, chicken base, pepper, and salt. Whisk until well combined.

Step 6: Combine Mixtures Pour the sour cream mixture over the potato mixture, stirring until everything is evenly mixed.

Step 7: Assemble the Casserole Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking pan and sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese on top.

Step 8: Bake Bake for 45 minutes to one hour, or until the potatoes are cooked through and the top is golden brown.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy Serve hot and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness!

Preparation and Cooking Times

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 12

Notes

Serving Suggestions

This Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole pairs wonderfully with a variety of main dishes, making it a versatile side dish for any meal. Here are some serving suggestions to complement the casserole:

Holiday Meals: Serve alongside roasted turkey, ham, or prime rib for a hearty holiday feast.
Weeknight Dinners: Pair with grilled chicken, meatloaf, or pork chops for a satisfying weeknight meal.
Breakfast or Brunch: Enjoy with eggs, bacon, or sausage for a delightful breakfast or brunch option.
Vegetarian Meals: Serve with a fresh green salad, steamed vegetables, or a roasted vegetable medley for a complete vegetarian meal.

Storage Tips

To keep your Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole fresh and delicious, follow these storage tips:

Refrigeration: Allow the casserole to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing: If you plan to store the casserole for a longer period, freezing is an excellent option. Wrap the cooled casserole tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, or place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Instructions

For the best results, reheat the casserole using one of the following methods:

Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place the casserole in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and bake for 20-30 minutes, or until heated through. For a crispy top, remove the foil during the last 10 minutes of baking.
Microwave: Place a portion of the casserole on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, or until warmed through. Stir halfway through to ensure even heating.
Stovetop: For smaller portions, reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.