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Crispy Hash Brown Casserole Recipe with Easy Creamy Sour Cream Topping

crispy hash brown casserole - featured image

A comforting and crispy hash brown casserole topped with a silky, tangy sour cream layer. Perfect for breakfast, dinner sides, or potlucks, this easy recipe combines simple ingredients into a crowd-pleasing dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 32 oz frozen shredded hash browns
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup sour cream (full-fat recommended)
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup (or cream of mushroom for vegetarian)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 4 tablespoons butter, melted
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 2 tablespoons chopped chives or green onions (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large bowl, combine the frozen shredded hash browns (do not thaw), sharp cheddar cheese, finely chopped onion, cream of chicken soup, melted butter, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Stir gently but thoroughly until evenly coated.
  3. Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread evenly and press lightly to compact the surface.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the sour cream and a pinch of black pepper for the creamy topping. Spread gently over the potato mixture, covering the entire surface.
  5. Bake uncovered for 50-60 minutes until edges are deep golden brown and crispy, and the center is bubbling and set but creamy.
  6. Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
  7. Optional: Sprinkle chopped chives or green onions on top before serving.

Notes

Use quality frozen hash browns like Ore-Ida for best texture. Pat hash browns dry if too moist. Do not cover casserole while baking to maintain crispiness. If top browns too fast, tent with foil after 40 minutes. For extra crispy topping, sprinkle shredded cheese or panko breadcrumbs before baking. Assemble ahead and refrigerate overnight, adding 10 minutes to baking time.

Nutrition

Keywords: hash brown casserole, crispy casserole, sour cream topping, easy casserole, comfort food, cheesy potatoes, breakfast casserole, potluck dish