Grandma’s Hash Brown Casserole – Classic Cheesy Comfort Food Recipe
Introduction to Grandma’s Hash Brown Casserole
Grandma’s Hash Brown Casserole is a timeless comfort food recipe loved for its creamy texture, crispy golden top, and rich cheesy flavor. This classic casserole recipe has been a staple at family breakfasts, holiday brunches, potlucks, and church gatherings for generations. Made with simple pantry ingredients, it delivers big flavor with minimal effort.
This old-fashioned hash brown casserole is the definition of cozy home cooking. Every bite brings together tender potatoes, melted cheddar cheese, buttery goodness, and a creamy base that feels like a warm hug from Grandma’s kitchen.
Why You’ll Love Grandma’s Hash Brown Casserole
This cheesy hash brown casserole recipe continues to be a favorite because it is:
- Easy to make with simple ingredients
- Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dinner
- Crowd-pleasing comfort food
- Make-ahead and freezer-friendly
- Rich, creamy, and cheesy
Whether you’re feeding a family or bringing a dish to a potluck, this casserole never disappoints.
Key Ingredients for Hash Brown Casserole
Main Ingredients
- Frozen Hash Browns – The base of the casserole
- Cream of Chicken Soup – Adds creaminess and depth
- Sour Cream – Tangy and rich
- Butter – Adds flavor and moisture
- Chopped Onion – Savory aroma and taste
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Melty, cheesy goodness
- Salt and Black Pepper – Enhances flavor
Optional Substitutions
- Use cream of mushroom soup for a vegetarian version
- Swap sour cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter option
- Try Monterey Jack, Colby, or mozzarella cheese
- Add garlic powder or paprika for extra flavor
How to Make Grandma’s Hash Brown Casserole
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, combine hash browns, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, melted butter, chopped onion, 1 cup shredded cheese, salt, and pepper.
- Mix until fully combined.
- Spread mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- Sprinkle remaining cheddar cheese over the top.
- Bake for 45–50 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Expert Tips for the Best Hash Brown Casserole
- Thaw hash browns to prevent excess moisture
- Sauté onions for deeper flavor
- Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting
- Don’t overbake—remove once edges are bubbly and top is golden
These tips guarantee the best homemade hash brown casserole every time.
Popular Variations of Hash Brown Casserole
Loaded Hash Brown Casserole
Add cooked bacon, ham, or sausage.
Vegetarian Hash Brown Casserole
Use cream of mushroom soup and add bell peppers or mushrooms.
Spicy Hash Brown Casserole
Add jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or red pepper flakes.
Gluten-Free Hash Brown Casserole
Use gluten-free soup and certified gluten-free hash browns.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Grandma’s Hash Brown Casserole with:
- Scrambled eggs or fried eggs
- Bacon or sausage links
- Fresh fruit or green salad
- Roast chicken or grilled meat
It works beautifully as both a breakfast casserole and a side dish for dinner.
Make-Ahead, Storage, and Freezing Tips
- Make Ahead: Assemble and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking
- Storage: Refrigerate leftovers for up to 4 days
- Freezing: Freeze baked or unbaked casserole up to 3 months
- Reheating: Warm in oven at 350°F for best texture
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make hash brown casserole ahead of time?
Yes, it’s perfect for prepping the day before.
Can I freeze hash brown casserole?
Absolutely. Freeze tightly wrapped for best results.
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen?
Yes, shred and squeeze out excess moisture first.
Is hash brown casserole good for brunch?
Yes, it’s one of the most popular brunch casserole recipes.
Why This Grandma’s Hash Brown Casserole Recipe Ranks High
This recipe targets high-search keywords such as hash brown casserole, cheesy potato casserole, grandma’s recipe, easy breakfast casserole, and comfort food classic. Its simple ingredients, reliable results, and nostalgic appeal make it a top-performing favorite.
Final Thoughts
Grandma’s Hash Brown Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—simple, creamy, cheesy, and unforgettable. Whether served for breakfast, brunch, or dinner, this classic casserole brings people together and never goes out of style. Once you make it, it’s guaranteed to become a family favorite passed down for generations.
Would you like the Cracker Barrel–style version, keto-friendly version, or slow cooker version next? 😊