Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns for this cheesy hash brown potatoes bake?

Yes, but you’ll need to par-boil and shred them first. Frozen hash browns are highly recommended for convenience and to ensure a consistent, tender texture without all the extra work.

What kind of cheese is best for this recipe for cheesy hash brown potatoes bake?

Sharp Cheddar is a classic choice and provides wonderful flavor. However, a mix of Cheddar and Monterey Jack or Colby cheese also works beautifully for extra meltiness and a milder profile.

Can I make this cheesy hash brown potatoes bake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the entire dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just remember to add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if it’s going into the oven cold.

How do I get a crispy top on my hash brown casserole?

For ultimate crispiness, I like to add a topping of buttered crushed cornflakes or panko breadcrumbs during the last part of baking. Alternatively, you can just bake it uncovered for the full time to encourage browning.

Is this cheesy hash brown potatoes bake gluten-free?

It can be made gluten-free if you use a certified gluten-free cream soup. Always check the ingredient labels carefully on all components to ensure they meet your dietary needs.

How long does cheesy hash brown potatoes bake last in the fridge?

Leftovers stored in an airtight container will keep well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. It’s great for meal prepping!.

Can I freeze leftover cheesy hash brown potatoes bake?

Yes, once cooled completely, portion it into freezer-safe containers or wrap tightly. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating for best results.

What can I serve with this hearty cheesy hash brown potatoes bake?

It’s incredibly versatile! It pairs perfectly with ham, roasted chicken, steak, or any family dinner where you need a comforting and satisfying side dish. My kids even love it for breakfast!

Recipe For Cheesy Hash Brown Potatoes Bake

Name: Cheesy Hash Brown Potatoes Bake
Prep time: 22 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 1 h 17 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 32 oz bag Frozen Hash Browns, shredded; 2 cups Cheddar Cheese, shredded; 10.75 oz can / 305g Cream of Chicken Soup; 16 oz / 450g Sour Cream; 1/2 cup / 113g Unsalted Butter, melted; 1 tsp Onion Powder; 1/2 tsp Garlic Powder; 1/2 tsp Black Pepper

Description

This comforting cheesy hash brown potatoes bake features frozen hash browns, rich cheddar, and creamy soup for a perfect crowd-pleasing side dish.

Ingredients

Scale

32 oz bag Frozen Hash Browns, shredded
2 cups Cheddar Cheese, shredded
10.75 oz can / 305g Cream of Chicken Soup
16 oz / 450g Sour Cream
1/2 cup / 113g Unsalted Butter, melted
1 tsp Onion Powder
1/2 tsp Garlic Powder
1/2 tsp Black Pepper

Instructions

Step 1: Prep Oven & Dish Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, onion powder, garlic powder, and black pepper until smooth.
Step 3: Mix in Hash Browns & Cheese Gently fold in the frozen hash browns and 1 1/2 cups of shredded Cheddar cheese until evenly coated. Don’t overmix.
Step 4: Assemble & Top Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of Cheddar cheese over the top.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection Bake for 45-60 minutes, or until bubbly around the edges and golden brown on top. The potatoes should be tender when pierced with a fork.
Step 6: Rest & Serve Let the cheesy hash brown potatoes bake rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the bake to set slightly.

Notes

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days in the fridge, or freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions.

Tips: For creamier texture, thaw hash browns beforehand. Freshly shredded cheese melts smoother. Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or dried thyme for extra flavor. For an extra crispy top, add a layer of buttered crushed cornflakes or panko breadcrumbs during the last 15 minutes of baking.

Dietary: This recipe can be made gluten-free by using a certified gluten-free cream of mushroom or chicken soup substitute. Always check labels for all ingredients.

Prep Time: 22 minutes
Cook Time: 55 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Baked
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/8 of recipe
Calories: 420 kcal
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 850mg
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 18g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 15g
Cholesterol: 60mg

Keywords: Cheesy Hash Brown Potatoes Bake