HASHBROWN CASSEROLE

Ingredients: What You Need and Why

Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients, highlighting what makes each one essential for this dish:

• 30 oz frozen shredded hash brown potatoes (thawed): The base of the casserole, these shredded potatoes give the dish its hearty, comforting texture and slight crispiness when baked.
• 2 tbsp olive oil: Adds flavor and helps sauté the onions and garlic, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
• 1 yellow onion (diced): Onion contributes a slight sweetness and savory depth to the dish, balancing the richness of the cheese sauce.
• 3 large garlic cloves (minced): Fresh garlic delivers a fragrant, savory punch that complements the creamy sauce.
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: This thickens the sauce, ensuring a velvety, smooth consistency that coats the hashbrowns perfectly.
• 2 cups whole milk (can use reduced-fat milk): The base of the cheese sauce, milk provides creaminess and helps balance the flavors.
• 1 cup chicken stock: Adds a savory depth of flavor to the sauce, making it more complex and rich.
• 1 cup sour cream: Sour cream adds creaminess and a slight tang, balancing out the richness of the cheese and milk.
• 8 oz shredded sharp cheddar cheese: The star of the dish, sharp cheddar cheese melts beautifully, creating a rich, creamy sauce with a deliciously bold flavor.
• 1 1/2 tbsp minced parsley: Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a fresh, herbaceous note that contrasts nicely with the richness of the casserole.
• Salt and freshly cracked black pepper: Essential for seasoning, salt and pepper enhance all the flavors in the dish, bringing out the best in every ingredient.
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (for topping): The final layer of cheese adds that perfect golden, bubbly crust on top, making the casserole irresistible.

How to Make Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole

Follow these simple steps to make your perfect cheesy hashbrown casserole:

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with cooking spray or a bit of olive oil to ensure the casserole doesn’t stick while baking.

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic

In a medium-sized pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced yellow onion and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until the onion becomes soft and slightly browned. This step brings out the natural sweetness in the onion. Add the minced garlicand cook for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce

Sprinkle 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour over the sautéed onions and garlic. Stir well to combine. This will create a roux, which is the thickening agent for your sauce. Gradually pour in 1 cup of chicken stock, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Follow this with 2 cups of milk, stirring as you pour. Continue stirring the mixture as it heats up, allowing it to thicken. Once the sauce has reached a smooth, creamy consistency, stir in the 1 cup of sour cream, 8 oz of shredded sharp cheddar cheese, salt, and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Allow the cheese to melt and the sauce to thicken further. Finally, stir in 1 1/2 tablespoons of minced parsley for an extra burst of flavor.

Step 4: Combine Hashbrowns and Cheese Sauce

In a large bowl, mix the thawed shredded hashbrowns with the cheese sauce. Stir until the hashbrowns are evenly coated with the rich, creamy sauce. Transfer the mixture to your prepared casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.

Step 5: Top and Bake

Top the casserole with the remaining 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese for that golden, bubbly finish. Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. The result? A perfectly cheesy, crispy, and creamy casserole that will wow your guests.

Why This Recipe is Loved

This cheesy hashbrown casserole is a crowd favorite because it’s the perfect balance of comfort and flavor. The creamy cheese sauceperfectly complements the crispy hashbrowns, while the sharp cheddar delivers a rich, bold flavor. The addition of sour cream creates a velvety texture, and the parsley adds a fresh, bright touch that cuts through the richness. This recipe is also incredibly versatile and can be served as a side dish or even as a main course.

Pro Tips for Perfect Hashbrown Casserole

1. Thaw the Hashbrowns: Be sure to thawyour frozen hashbrowns before using them in the recipe. This will help them cook evenly and ensure the casserole has the right texture.
2. Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic brings more flavor than garlic powder, so opt for fresh garlic whenever possible.
3. Add Extra Toppings: For a fun twist, consider adding toppings like crumbled bacon, green onions, or even a sprinkle of paprika for extra flavor and texture.
4. Let the Casserole Set: Allow the casserole to rest for 5-10 minutes after baking. This helps it set and makes it easier to serve.

Serving Suggestions

This cheesy hashbrown casserole pairs wonderfully with a variety of main dishes. Serve it alongside a roast chicken, grilled steak, or baked ham for a complete meal. It also makes a fantastic side dish for holiday dinners like Thanksgiving or Christmas.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a dish that combines simplicity with irresistible flavor, cheesy hashbrown casserole is the answer. It’s easy to make, packed with cheesy goodness, and guaranteed to be a hit at any meal. Whether you’re feeding your family or impressing guests, this casserole is a winner every time. Give it a try and experience why this comfort food is a favorite for so many.

So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and enjoy a warm, cheesy casserole that will become a staple in your recipe collection!