Casserole

Cheesy Breakfast Hashbrown Casserole – Easy Comfort Food Recipes

Name: Cheesy Breakfast Hashbrown Casserole – Easy Comfort Food Recipes
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 10
Ingredients: To whip up this casserole, you’ll need the following:; 32 ounces frozen shredded hash browns, thawed: This is the foundation of the dish.; ½ cup melted unsalted butter: It adds richness and helps bind everything together.; ½ cup finely chopped yellow onion: For that sweet, savory base.; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 10.5 ounces condensed cream of chicken soup: Creamy and packed with flavor.; 16 ounces full-fat sour cream: Provides that velvety texture.; 2 cups shredded Colby cheese, divided, or cheddar cheese: Because cheese makes everything better!; ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: A hint of spice.; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

Kathleen Looney October 29, 2025

Servings: 10 Total Time: 50 mins Difficulty: Intermediate

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Mornings can be tough. It’s often a race against the clock between jumping out of bed and sitting down for a proper breakfast. But here’s a little secret: the right dish can turn that frenetic energy into something enjoyable. Enter cheesy breakfast hashbrown casserole. Not only is it comforting, but it’s also easy to prepare and can cater to a crowd.

I can’t tell you how many brunches I’ve hosted where this dish stole the show. Paired with a side of fresh fruit, a simple green salad, or perhaps some scrambled eggs, it makes for a satisfying meal that warms the soul.

What is Cheesy Breakfast Hashbrown Casserole?

Let’s break it down. A cheesy breakfast hashbrown casserole combines frozen hashbrowns, cheese, and a creamy sauce, baking it all together until bubbly and golden. The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility. You can whip it up for special gatherings or even as a hearty weekday breakfast. Each bite delivers a creamy texture complemented by the savory goodness of melting cheese. Seriously, who can resist?

The Ingredients

To whip up this casserole, you’ll need the following:

32 ounces frozen shredded hash browns, thawed: This is the foundation of the dish.
½ cup melted unsalted butter: It adds richness and helps bind everything together.
½ cup finely chopped yellow onion: For that sweet, savory base.
2 cloves garlic, minced (optional): Adds depth and flavor.
10.5 ounces condensed cream of chicken soup: Creamy and packed with flavor.
16 ounces full-fat sour cream: Provides that velvety texture.
2 cups shredded Colby cheese, divided, or cheddar cheese: Because cheese makes everything better!
¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: A hint of spice.
1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional): For a touch of smokiness.

How to Make Cheesy Breakfast Hashbrown Casserole

Let’s dive into the practical part. Trust me, this is going to be fun! Follow these steps, and soon you’ll find yourself with a bubbling, cheesy delight.

Step-by-Step Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients. This makes the process more manageable and ensures you don’t end up mid-recipe searching for that can of cream of chicken soup. How often does that happen? You know, when you end up rummaging through the pantry while trying to keep an eye on the clock.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This way, when your casserole is ready, the oven will be primed and ready to go. No one likes a cold casserole!

Step 3: Sauté the Onions and Garlic

In a skillet, melt a tablespoon of that unsalted butter over medium heat. Toss in the finely chopped yellow onion. Cook it until it becomes soft, about 5 minutes. If you’re using garlic, add it in the last minute of sautéing for an enhanced flavor. Allow those aromatic flavors to fill your kitchen. I could almost smell it right now!

Step 4: Mix the Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed shredded hashbrowns, sautéed onion, and garlic. Pour in the melted butter, cream of chicken soup, and sour cream. Mix well until everything is coated.

Step 5: Add the Cheese

Next, fold in one and a half cups of the shredded cheese. This is where your casserole begins to transform into something truly special. The cheese will bind the ingredients and create that ooey-gooey texture we’re all after.

Step 6: Season It Up

Sprinkle the black pepper and smoked paprika over the mixture. Stir well to incorporate the spices evenly. Remember, a little seasoning goes a long way in elevating the flavors!

Step 7: Transfer to Baking Dish

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with some cooking spray or leftover melted butter. Spoon your hashbrown mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly.

Step 8: Top with More Cheese

Sprinkle the remaining half cup of cheese over the top. This will create a beautiful crust when baked. At this point, I often sneak a bite of leftover cheese. You know, for quality control!

Step 9: Bake

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and pop it into your preheated oven for 45 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the foil to allow the top to turn golden and bubbly.

Step 10: Serve and Enjoy

Once it’s done, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This dish is best enjoyed when the cheese is still warm, so don’t wait too long!

How to make Cheesy Breakfast Hashbrown Casserole

Notes

Here are some tips to enhance your breakfast casserole experience:

Use fresh ingredients whenever possible: If you have access to fresh potatoes, consider shredding those instead of using frozen hash browns.
Don’t skip the cheese: You can mix and match different cheeses, like mozzarella for stretch, but a good cheddar is a classic choice.
Add veggies: Bell peppers, spinach, or diced tomatoes can add a fresh twist!
Make it spicy: Toss in some sliced jalapeños for a kick.
Prep ahead: Assemble the casserole the night before and bake it in the morning.

Storage Tips

This casserole can be stored for later enjoyment:

Refrigerate: Once cooled, cover it and keep it in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freeze: If you want to make it ahead, freeze it before baking. Thaw in the fridge overnight before cooking.
Reheat: Simply pop it back into a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Here’s a general breakdown per serving:

Calories: 300
Protein: 12g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Total Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Sugar: 2g
Fiber: 2g

Cheesy Breakfast Hashbrown Casserole Recipe

Serving Suggestions

You can enjoy this casserole in various delightful ways:

With Scrambled Eggs: The fluffy eggs complement the richness of the casserole.
Add a Side Salad: A crisp salad dressed lightly can balance the dish’s heaviness.
Top with Salsa: A bit of salsa on top adds freshness and tang.
Serve with Fresh Fruit: Grapes, strawberries, or melon counteract the savory flavors beautifully.
Pair with Breakfast Meats: Bacon or sausage links on the side satisfy those meat lovers at your table.

What Other Substitutes Can I Use in Cheesy Breakfast Hashbrown Casserole?

If you’re looking to switch it up, here are some alternatives:

Sweet Potatoes: Use shredded sweet potatoes for a hint of sweetness and added nutrients.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: Swap out the cream of chicken for a vegetarian-friendly option.
Greek Yogurt: Exchange sour cream for Greek yogurt for lower fat and additional protein.
Plant-based Cheeses: If dairy isn’t your thing, go for plant-based cheese alternatives; just ensure they melt well.
Breakfast Sausage: Incorporate some browned breakfast sausage for a heartier version.

Conclusion

Cheesy breakfast hashbrown casserole is a solid choice for breakfast, brunch, or any time you crave comfort food. It’s easy to prepare, works well for feeding a crowd, and offers a wonderful combination of flavors and textures. Whether you keep it classic or switch things up with different ingredients, this dish deserves a spot in your kitchen. Embrace the joy of cooking and share this delicious dish with family and friends. Trust me; they’ll be asking for it again and again. It’s a crowd-pleaser for sure!

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Print Recipe

Cheesy Breakfast Hashbrown Casserole – Easy Comfort Food Recipes

Author: Kathleen Looney Cuisine: American Courses: Casserole

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 5 mins Cook Time 45 mins Total Time 50 mins

Servings: 10 Calories: 300

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

Mornings can be tough. It's often a race against the clock between jumping out of bed and sitting down for a proper breakfast. But here's a little secret: the right dish can turn that frenetic energy into something enjoyable. Enter cheesy breakfast hashbrown casserole. Not only is it comforting, but it’s also easy to prepare and can cater to a crowd.

I can't tell you how many brunches I've hosted where this dish stole the show. Paired with a side of fresh fruit, a simple green salad, or perhaps some scrambled eggs, it makes for a satisfying meal that warms the soul.