This Cheese Hash Brown Bake is a cozy dish made with crispy hash browns and melted cheese. It’s like a warm hug on a plate—perfect for breakfast or brunch!
Honestly, it’s so cheesy and good that you might want to make it every weekend. I can’t resist a second helping, and neither will your friends—trust me!
What I love about this bake is how simple it is to whip up. Just mix, bake, and enjoy the cheesy goodness. It always brings smiles to the table!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Hash Browns: Frozen hash browns are super convenient for this dish. If you prefer fresh, you can grate your own potatoes, but be sure to squeeze out excess moisture to avoid a soggy bake.
Sour Cream: This adds creaminess. You can substitute plain Greek yogurt for a tangy flavor and extra protein, or use a dairy-free sour cream if needed.
Cream of Chicken Soup: It gives a great base flavor. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, try using cream of mushroom soup instead.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar is classic for this recipe. If you want something different, go for Monterey Jack or Gouda. You can also mix different cheeses for a unique flavor.
Onions: Chopped onion adds depth. If you’re not a fan of onions, you can omit them or replace them with green onions for a milder taste.
How Can I Make Sure My Hash Brown Bake Comes Out Perfectly?
Getting that creamy and crispy texture is key to a great hash brown bake. Be sure to mix your ingredients well so every bite is equally delicious. Spread the mixture evenly in your baking dish; this ensures it cooks uniformly.
- Make sure the hash browns are completely thawed before mixing. This helps them cook evenly.
- Don’t skip the baking time! Allow it to bake until the top is golden brown and bubbly for that inviting look and taste.
- If you like a crispier top, broil for a minute or two at the end, but keep an eye on it to avoid burning!
Finally, letting the dish cool for a few minutes before serving helps it set up nicely, making it easier to cut and serve. Enjoy your bake!
How to Make Cheese Hash Brown Bake?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 lbs frozen hash browns (thawed)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus more for topping)
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Cheese Hash Brown Bake will take you about 15 minutes to prepare and around 50 minutes to bake. Overall, you’ll be enjoying this cheesy, savory dish in about an hour and five minutes. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a potluck!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s heating up, take a moment to grease a 9×13-inch baking dish, so your bake doesn’t stick later on.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine your thawed hash browns, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, cheddar cheese, chopped onion, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together well until it’s all nicely combined. You want every bite to be full of flavor!
3. Spread the Mixture:
Now, take that tasty mixture and spread it evenly into the greased baking dish you prepared earlier. Make sure to distribute it nicely so it cooks evenly.
4. Bake It Up:
Place your baking dish in the oven and let it bake for about 45-50 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is golden brown and bubbly—simply delicious!
5. Add Extra Cheese (Optional):
If you love cheese, sprinkle some extra shredded cheddar on top during the last 5-10 minutes of baking. Return it to the oven until that cheese is melted and gooey.
6. Cool and Garnish:
Once it’s out of the oven, let the dish cool for a few minutes. Then, sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a beautiful garnish. This adds a pop of color and freshness to your dish!
Enjoy your delicious Cheese Hash Brown Bake with family and friends—it’s sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Fresh Hash Browns Instead of Frozen?
Absolutely! If you prefer using fresh hash browns, just make sure to squeeze out any excess moisture before incorporating them into the mixture. This will help keep your bake from becoming soggy.
Can I Substitute the Cream of Chicken Soup?
Yes, you can substitute the cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom soup or make your own homemade cream sauce. Just keep in mind that the flavor will slightly change, but it’ll still be delicious!
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, simply use a gluten-free cream soup option or make your own. Additionally, check the label on your hash browns to ensure no gluten-containing ingredients are included.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm it up in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Enjoy your meal again!
