Creamy Cheddar Hash Brown Casserole
This Creamy Cheddar Hash Brown Casserole is a delightful twist on classic comfort food, perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen. Combining the creaminess of whipping cream with the rich flavor of melted cheddar cheese, this dish is a hit for both kids and adults. The use of thawed hash brown potatoes ensures quick preparation, and the addition of green onions adds a deliciously fresh bite to the richness of the casserole. Serve it as a side dish or as a main course with a salad for a complete meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes!
4
Servings
N/A
Calories
6
Ingredients
Ingredients
Frozen hash brown potatoes
1 lb (thawed)
Whipping cream
2 cups (none)
Shredded cheddar cheese
1 1/2 cups (divided)
Sliced green onion
1/4 cup (none)
Salt
1 teaspoon (none)
Black pepper
1/4 teaspoon (none)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to get it ready for baking.
2
In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed hash brown potatoes with the whipping cream, 1 1/4 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, sliced green onions, salt, and black pepper. Stir until all ingredients are well mixed and evenly coated.
3
Transfer the potato mixture into a greased 11 x 7 inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly to ensure even cooking.
4
Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the potato mixture for a golden, cheesy crust.
5
Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 25 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly, and the cheese has melted to a delicious golden brown. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Cheddar Hash Brown Casserole?
It is a hearty side or main dish made with thawed hash browns, whipping cream, cheddar cheese, and green onions.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe is designed to yield 4 servings.
What type of potatoes are used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for one pound of frozen hash brown potatoes that have been thawed.
Do I need to thaw the hash browns before cooking?
Yes, the potatoes should be thawed to ensure even mixing and proper cooking within the 25-minute bake time.
What is the required oven temperature?
The oven should be preheated to 350°F (175°C).
What kind of cheese is recommended?
The recipe uses shredded cheddar cheese for a rich, melted flavor.
Can I use heavy cream instead of whipping cream?
Yes, heavy cream can be used as a substitute for whipping cream to maintain the recipe's creaminess.
What size baking dish do I need?
You should use a greased 11 x 7 inch baking dish.
How long does the casserole take to bake?
It takes approximately 25 minutes in the oven until it is hot, bubbly, and golden brown.
Are there onions in this dish?
Yes, the recipe includes 1/4 cup of sliced green onions for a fresh bite.
How much cheese goes inside the mixture versus on top?
Use 1 1/4 cups of cheese in the mixture and save the remaining 1/4 cup to sprinkle on top.
Is this recipe suitable for a quick weeknight meal?
Yes, it is designed to be ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy schedules.
Can I serve this as a main course?
Absolutely; it can be served as a side dish or as a main course accompanied by a salad.
What seasonings are added to the potatoes?
The dish is seasoned with 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper.
Should the baking dish be greased?
Yes, the instructions specify using a greased baking dish to prevent sticking.
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen?
While the recipe specifies frozen hash browns, you could use fresh shredded potatoes if they are properly drained.
Is this dish spicy?
No, the recipe is mild, using only black pepper for a bit of seasoning.
Can I add meat to this casserole?
While not in the original recipe, you could easily add cooked bacon or ham for extra protein.
What makes the casserole creamy?
The combination of 2 cups of whipping cream and melted cheddar cheese creates the creamy texture.
How do I know when the casserole is done?
It is ready when the mixture is bubbly and the cheese on top has melted into a delicious golden brown.
Can I substitute the green onions?
Yes, you could use chives or finely minced yellow onions if you prefer.
Is this a kid-friendly recipe?
Yes, the cheesy and potato-based nature of the dish makes it a hit with both children and adults.
Can I make this ahead of time?
You can assemble the mixture in the dish, cover it, and refrigerate until you are ready to bake.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can double the ingredients and use a larger 9x13 baking dish, though cooking time may increase.
Is this dish gluten-free?
The primary ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but always check the labels on your hash browns and cream.
What can I serve with this?
It pairs well with roasted chicken, grilled steak, or a simple green salad.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, Colby Jack or Monterey Jack would also work well in this recipe.
Why let it cool slightly before serving?
Allowing it to cool for a few minutes helps the sauce set slightly so it isn't too runny when served.
What is the total preparation time?
Preparation and baking combined take less than 30 minutes.