There are certain recipes that transcend mere side dishes and become culinary institutions. The HashBrown Casserole also affectionately known as Funeral Potatoes is undeniably one of them. This dish is a golden, bubbly symphony of creamy, melted cheese enveloping tender shredded potatoes, often crowned with a perfectly crunchy, buttery topping. It’s the quintessential comfort food, equally at home on a holiday table alongside a magnificent turkey (perhaps served after checking out our guide on Turkey Brine) or served piping hot at your next Sunday brunch.
If you’re looking for a simple, dependable recipe that consistently delivers rave reviews, you have found your match. Our recipe for HashBrown Casserole elevates this classic by balancing the savory creaminess with just the right amount of sharp cheddar and a customizable, crispy topping that everyone will fight for. Forget complicated preparation; this recipe utilizes pantry staples and frozen hashbrowns, making it incredibly quick to assemble while still tasting deeply homemade. Get ready to experience the cheesy potato perfection that defines American comfort food.
Whether you’re hosting a large gathering, contributing to a potluck, or simply craving something warm and rich, this HashBrown Casserole is a foolproof favorite. We’ve optimized this guide to ensure every bite offers that perfect contrast: gooey on the inside, wonderfully crisp on the surface. Follow along for all the expert tips, ingredient secrets, and variations that will make this casserole your new signature dish.
Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Potato Casserole (HashBrown Casserole)
The immediate appeal of the HashBrown Casserole lies in its simplicity married with an intense depth of flavor and texture. Unlike many complicated side dishes that demand constant attention, this recipe is designed for ease, utilizing readily available ingredients that require minimal chopping or preparation. This makes it an absolute lifesaver during busy holiday periods or hectic weeknights. But the love for this dish goes far beyond its convenience.
Unbeatable Texture Contrast
One of the primary reasons this casserole is so beloved is the incredible textural experience it provides. The base uses creamy binders sour cream and condensed soup to create an ultra-rich, velvety potato interior. The shredded hashbrowns soften beautifully during the baking process, resulting in a comforting, spoonable consistency. Crucially, the final step involves adding a buttery, crunchy topping, whether you prefer crushed cornflakes, Ritz crackers, or even potato chips. This contrast between the smooth, cheesy core and the golden, crisp crust is what makes the HashBrown Casserole utterly addictive. Every scoop guarantees a mix of creamy satisfaction and satisfying crunch.
The Magic of Melted Cheese
Our recipe calls for a generous two cups of sharp cheddar cheese, divided perfectly between the creamy base and the topping. Incorporating cheese directly into the potato mixture ensures that the casserole remains moist, flavorful, and incredibly gooey throughout. As the dish bakes, the cheddar melts, binding the potatoes together and contributing a tangy, savory counterpoint to the richness of the sour cream and butter. We also reserve a half-cup of cheese to sprinkle on top right before the final bake, ensuring a golden-brown, irresistible crust that is both cheesy and crisp.
Perfect Portability and Make-Ahead Capabilities
If you frequently cook for crowds, attend potlucks, or look for dishes that travel well, the HashBrown Casserole is your MVP. Since it’s baked in a standard 9×13 inch dish, it’s easy to transport and serves a large number of people (typically 10-12 servings). Moreover, this entire dish can be assembled up to 24 hours in advance, covered, and stored in the refrigerator. This allows you to do the heavy lifting ahead of time, dramatically reducing stress on the day of your event. Simply pop it into the oven when you’re ready to bake. This make-ahead quality is a huge benefit for maximizing time when preparing a feast, like integrating it into a full holiday menu alongside a Sweet Potato Casserole.
A Versatile Side Dish Superstar
The HashBrown Casserole is incredibly versatile, pairing beautifully with almost any main course. It’s fantastic with ham, roasted chicken, steak, or pork tenderloin. It’s also robust enough to stand on its own as a hearty brunch item or a simple weeknight dinner component. Its adaptable nature means it seamlessly fits into any meal theme, whether it’s a casual barbecue or a formal holiday dinner, solidifying its place as a perennial crowd-pleaser.
Why You Should Try This Recipe Now
While the reputation of HashBrown Casserole (or cheesy potato casserole) precedes itself, many home cooks rely on vague instructions or heavily processed ingredient lists. This specific recipe focuses on enhancing the classic flavors through quality ingredients and precise preparation steps, ensuring a superior outcome every time. If you’ve ever had a casserole that turned out watery, bland, or crumbly, this guide is designed to prevent those common pitfalls and deliver pure potato perfection.
Eliminating the Watery Casserole Problem
A major critique of hastily prepared potato casseroles is that they can end up watery, resulting in a soggy, disappointing texture. We address this crucial issue right in Step 1: Thawing and squeezing the hashbrowns. Frozen hashbrowns hold a substantial amount of ice and moisture. If this excess liquid is not removed, it releases into the creamy base during baking, thinning the mixture and preventing proper setting. By incorporating the simple act of gently squeezing out this liquid, we guarantee a thick, cohesive, and perfectly set HashBrown Casserole that holds its shape beautifully when served.
Flavor Layering for Maximum Impact
We don’t just dump ingredients together; we build flavor layers. The recipe includes a precise combination of melted butter, salt, pepper, and, optionally, finely chopped onion. While many recipes skip the onion, its inclusion adds an aromatic depth that elevates the entire dish from simple cheese and potato to a sophisticated savory side. If you are sensitive to texture, the option to use onion powder ensures you still get that necessary allium flavor without the bite of fresh onion. This thoughtful layering ensures the final taste is complex and deeply satisfying, rather than relying solely on the sodium from the canned soup.
Achieve Restaurant-Quality Presentation
While often seen as humble fare, this HashBrown Casserole recipe allows for a truly stunning presentation. The golden-brown crust, whether made from cornflakes or crackers, creates a striking visual contrast to the creamy white and yellow interior. Following our detailed instructions ensures the casserole bakes evenly, achieving that desired bubbling around the edges a hallmark of a perfectly cooked, ready-to-serve dish. By giving the casserole a crucial 10-minute rest after baking, you allow the internal structure to set, resulting in clean, beautiful servings rather than a collapsing mess.
Furthermore, mastering this HashBrown Casserole provides an essential foundation for other savory casserole recipes. The techniques learned here balancing liquid, binding agents, and high-heat toppings can be applied to everything from a classic Green Bean Casserole to a savory breakfast bake. It’s an indispensable recipe for any home cook’s repertoire, guaranteeing a delicious outcome that will earn compliments every single time you serve it.
Mastering the Ingredients & Essential Tools for HashBrown Casserole
The key to a truly phenomenal HashBrown Casserole lies in using the right ingredients at the right stage of preparation. While this recipe is forgiving, paying attention to the details of each component will maximize flavor and texture.
Ingredients Deep Dive (Detailed List)
The following ingredients list provides the foundation for the ultimate cheesy potato perfection. Note the importance of preparation notes, such as thawing and melting, which are critical for the casserole’s final consistency.
- Hashbrowns: 1 (30-32 ounce) bag
- Note: Use frozen shredded hashbrowns. It is absolutely essential that these are completely thawed before mixing. Thawing takes 4–8 hours in the refrigerator, or you can speed the process up by spreading them on a baking sheet at room temperature for an hour. Most critically, you must gently squeeze out any excess liquid after thawing to prevent the casserole from becoming watery.
- Cream Soup: 1 (10.5 ounce) can
- The standard is Cream of Chicken Soup, which provides a lovely, subtle poultry flavor that complements the richness of the cheese. However, Cream of Mushroom Soup or Cream of Celery Soup are excellent vegetarian alternatives and work equally well to create the necessary creamy binding base.
- Sour Cream: 1 (16 ounce) container
- This adds a necessary tanginess that cuts through the richness of the butter and soup. Full-fat sour cream is recommended for the best flavor and texture, though reduced-fat versions will still work. Ensure it is at room temperature for easier mixing.
- Cheddar Cheese: 2 cups (divided)
- Sharp cheddar cheese is the superior choice here, offering a pronounced flavor that won’t get lost. Freshly shredded cheese melts better and tastes significantly superior to pre-shredded cheese (which often contains anti-caking agents). Use 1 1/2 cups for the filling and reserve 1/2 cup for the final topping layer.
- Butter: 1/2 cup (1 stick)
- Unsalted butter, melted. Butter is crucial for moisture, flavor, and texture. Ensure the butter is fully melted before mixing into the cream base.
- Onion: 1/2 medium (optional)
- Finely chopped yellow onion adds savory depth. If you choose to use the fresh onion, ensure it is chopped very finely (minced) so that it softens properly during baking. If skipping fresh onion, substitute with 1 teaspoon of onion powder for flavor continuity. This step drastically improves the overall depth of the HashBrown Casserole flavor profile.
- Seasoning: 1 teaspoon Salt & 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper
- Always taste your mixture before adding the hashbrowns. Use freshly ground black pepper for superior aroma. Depending on the salt content of your chosen condensed soup, you may slightly adjust the salt quantity.
- Optional Crunchy Topping: 1 cup
- This is where personality shines! Popular choices include crushed cornflakes, buttered Ritz crackers, or even crushed plain potato chips. The topping provides the signature crunch.
- Topping Butter: 2 tablespoons (Melted)
- Needed to coat the crunchy topping ingredients, ensuring they brown beautifully without burning.
For more delicious, crowd-pleasing sides, including savory options that pair well with this recipe, be sure to explore our Pinterest page dedicated to easy entertaining recipes.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Recipe Success
While the HashBrown Casserole is not tool-intensive, having the correct equipment ensures smooth preparation and an even bake.
- 9×13 Inch Baking Dish: This standard casserole size is essential. Glass or ceramic dishes are preferred for even heat distribution. Ensure it is lightly greased before adding the potato mixture.
- Large Mixing Bowl: You will need ample space to combine the creamy base and then gently fold in the hashbrowns without mashing them. A bowl with at least a 6-quart capacity is ideal.
- Whisk and Spatula: A whisk is needed for blending the wet, creamy ingredients smoothly. A sturdy rubber spatula or wooden spoon is best for folding in the delicate hashbrowns gently.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accuracy is key, particularly for the melted butter and seasoning.
- Clean Kitchen Towel or Paper Towels: Absolutely necessary for squeezing the excess moisture from the thawed hashbrowns do not skip this step!
Step-by-Step Guide to the Perfect HashBrown Casserole
Follow these detailed instructions precisely to achieve the perfect balance of creamy interior and crunchy topping that defines the ultimate HashBrown Casserole.
Step 1: Preparation is Paramount
The foundation of a successful casserole is the prep work. Skipping these initial steps can lead to a less-than-ideal texture.
- Preheat and Prep the Pan: Preheat your oven to a moderate 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, lightly grease your standard 9×13 inch baking dish. Greasing ensures that the cheesy edges don’t stick and makes serving effortless.
- Thaw and Drain Hashbrowns: This is the most crucial step. Ensure the frozen hashbrowns are completely thawed. Once thawed, transfer the hashbrowns to a clean kitchen towel or layer them heavily on paper towels. Gently squeeze or pat out any excess liquid. The potatoes should feel damp, not soggy. If too much liquid remains, your final casserole will be loose and watery.
Step 2: Combine the Creamy Base
We are now creating the flavorful, creamy “glue” that holds this HashBrown Casserole together. Proper mixing here prevents lumps and ensures every shred of potato is coated.
- Whisk the Wet Ingredients: In your large mixing bowl, whisk together the canned cream soup (Cream of Chicken or Mushroom), the 16-ounce container of sour cream, the 1/2 cup (1 stick) of melted butter, and the finely chopped onion (if using). Continue whisking until the mixture is smooth, homogenous, and completely lump-free.
- Season and Cheese: Add the 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper to the creamy mixture. Stir well to distribute. Next, add 1 1/2 cups of the shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Stir just enough to incorporate the cheese evenly. Remember to reserve the remaining 1/2 cup of cheese for Step 5.
Step 3: Mix and Transfer
The goal in this step is to thoroughly coat the potatoes without crushing them, preserving their shredded texture.
- Introduce the Hashbrowns: Add the prepared, squeezed, and thawed hashbrowns to the mixing bowl containing the creamy cheese base.
- Gentle Folding Technique: Using a large spatula or wooden spoon, gently fold the hashbrowns into the mixture. Start from the bottom of the bowl and fold upwards, turning the potatoes over the cream base. Repeat until the hashbrowns are evenly coated and the cheese mixture is distributed throughout. Do not vigorously stir or mash the potatoes, as this can release starch and moisture, affecting the final texture.
- Transfer to Pan: Pour the entire hashbrown mixture into the prepared 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread it into an even layer using the back of your spatula, ensuring the surface is relatively level for consistent cooking.
Step 4: Bake (Initial Phase)
The first bake sets the internal structure and ensures the potatoes cook through before the topping is added.
- Initial Bake: Place the uncovered casserole in the preheated 350°F (175°C) oven. Bake for exactly 30 minutes. During this time, the edges will start to bubble, and the hashbrowns will begin to soften and absorb the creamy sauce.
Step 5: Prepare and Add the Topping (The Crunch Factor)
This is where the classic, crispy crust comes into play. If you prefer a topping-free casserole, skip to Step 6, but we highly recommend this step for the ultimate experience.
- Prepare the Topping: While the casserole bakes, prepare your optional crunchy topping. In a small bowl, combine your 1 cup of crushed cornflakes, Ritz crackers, or potato chips. Drizzle the 2 tablespoons of melted butter over the topping mixture and toss gently until the pieces are evenly coated.
- Add Final Cheese and Topping: After the initial 30 minutes of baking, carefully remove the casserole from the oven. Evenly sprinkle the reserved 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the hot surface. Immediately follow this with the prepared, buttery crunchy topping (if using).
Step 6: Finish Baking and Rest for Perfection
The final bake melts the last layer of cheese and crisps the topping to a beautiful golden brown.
- Finish Baking: Return the HashBrown Casserole to the oven and continue baking for another 15 to 20 minutes. Look for visual cues of doneness: the casserole should be bubbling vigorously around the edges, the reserved cheese should be fully melted, and the topping should be golden brown and highly crisp.
- The Critical Rest: Remove the casserole from the oven and place it on a cooling rack. Let it rest for a minimum of 10 minutes before slicing and serving. This crucial resting period allows the cheese and creamy binders to firm up and set. If you skip this, the casserole will be runny and difficult to serve neatly.
- Serve Warm: Serve immediately after resting alongside your favorite entrées. This dish pairs particularly well with savory sides like our Jiffy Corn Casserole for a complete comfort food spread.
Tips, Tricks, and Delicious Variations for Your HashBrown Casserole
The beauty of the HashBrown Casserole is its adaptability. Once you master the basic technique, you can easily customize the flavor profile to suit any meal or dietary preference. Here are some of the best tips and variations to take your casserole to the next level.
Flavor Variations to Try
You can easily transform this classic side dish into a hearty main course or adjust its regional flavor profile by adding a few key ingredients:
- Breakfast Bake Addition: Turn this into a full breakfast casserole. Brown 1/2 pound of sausage or bacon, drain the fat well, and fold the cooked meat into the hashbrown mixture in Step 3. For a spicy kick, use diced ham and a dash of cayenne pepper.
- Spicy Southwest Flair: Add a 4-ounce can of drained green chilies and 1 teaspoon of chili powder to the creamy base. Swap the cheddar for Monterey Jack or a pepper jack cheese blend. This version is fantastic for Taco Tuesday or Cinco de Mayo gatherings.
- Herbaceous Elegance: For a more refined flavor, add 1 tablespoon of finely chopped fresh chives and 1 teaspoon of dried thyme or sage to the creamy base. This variation is especially good for holiday meals, offering a subtle, aromatic lift.
- Garlic & Parmesan Boost: Incorporate 2 cloves of minced garlic into the melted butter before mixing it into the cream base (or use 1 tsp garlic powder). Replace half of the cheddar cheese with shredded Parmesan for an Italian-inspired potato bake.
- The Cracker Topping Alternative: While cornflakes are traditional, crushed buttery crackers (like Ritz) or crushed kettle-cooked potato chips offer a richer, saltier crunch that many guests prefer. Toss them with the melted butter in Step 5 for a golden, irresistible crust.
Dietary Modifications (Vegan & Gluten-Free)
It is relatively easy to adapt the HashBrown Casserole to meet specific dietary needs:
- Gluten-Free: The main ingredients hashbrowns, sour cream, butter, and cheese are naturally gluten-free. The potential gluten source is the condensed soup. Simply ensure you use a certified gluten-free Cream of Chicken or Cream of Mushroom soup substitute (many brands offer these now), or make a homemade cream sauce using gluten-free flour as a thickener. Ensure your crunchy topping (if using) is also gluten-free (e.g., specific chips or certified GF cornflakes).
- Vegan/Dairy-Free: This takes a bit more substitution but is entirely possible.
- Replace Cream Soup with a homemade vegan white sauce (made with vegetable broth and cashew cream or a vegan roux).
- Use a high-quality vegan sour cream or plain vegan Greek yogurt alternative.
- Swap butter for a plant-based butter stick or margarine.
- Replace cheddar cheese with a robust vegan cheddar or nutritional yeast (for a cheesy flavor without melting properties).
Troubleshooting & Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even though this is an easy recipe, a few common pitfalls can affect the final outcome:
- Mistake: Soggy or Watery Casserole.
- Fix: This is almost always caused by residual moisture in the hashbrowns or too much liquid added. Ensure your hashbrowns are thoroughly thawed and squeezed dry. Do not skip this! Also, make sure you use the precise amount of butter and sour cream specified.
- Mistake: Bland Flavor.
- Fix: The base relies heavily on seasoning. If the flavor seems flat, you likely need more salt, pepper, or savory depth (onion/garlic). Taste the creamy mixture before adding the potatoes. If it tastes slightly over-seasoned at this stage, it will be perfect after the bland potatoes absorb some of the flavor during baking.
- Mistake: Burnt Topping.
- Fix: If your topping is browning too quickly during the final 15-20 minute bake, your oven may run hot, or your topping particles might be too fine. If the topping is golden but the interior needs more time, loosely tent the casserole with aluminum foil to protect the crust while the inside finishes baking.
- Mistake: Difficulty Serving.
- Fix: The 10-minute rest is non-negotiable. The high heat keeps the cheese and cream in a very fluid state. Resting allows the starch and fat to cool slightly and solidify, which ensures clean, firm squares when you scoop and serve. For other great holiday sides that benefit from a rest, check out our popular Baked Cranberry Cream Cheese Dip recipe.
Nutritional Information and Benefits
The HashBrown Casserole is a classic example of comfort food rich, satisfying, and caloric. While it may not be low-fat, understanding the nutritional components allows for informed enjoyment and appreciation of the energy and richness this dish provides, especially in a fulfilling meal setting.
Estimated Nutritional Values (Per Serving, based on 12 servings)
Please note that nutritional values are estimates and can vary significantly based on the specific brand of cream soup, the fat content of the sour cream, and the sharpness of the cheddar cheese used. These estimates are based on the full-fat ingredients listed in the recipe.
Component | Estimated Value |
---|---|
Calories | Approx. 300–350 kcal |
Total Fat | Approx. 20–25g |
Saturated Fat | Approx. 12–15g |
Carbohydrates | Approx. 20–25g |
Protein | Approx. 10–12g |
Sodium | Approx. 450–600mg |
Benefits of Certain Ingredients
While this dish is decidedly decadent, it does offer valuable contributions to your meal:
- Potatoes (Hashbrowns): Potatoes are an excellent source of complex carbohydrates, providing sustained energy. They also contain essential nutrients like Vitamin C, Potassium, and Vitamin B6. While much of the nutrient density is in the skin, shredded potatoes still offer good fuel.
- Dairy Products (Cheese and Sour Cream): The significant inclusion of cheddar cheese and sour cream provides a high concentration of calcium, which is vital for bone health, and protein, which is essential for muscle repair and satiety. Cheese is also a good source of Vitamin A and Zinc.
- Fats: The high-fat content from butter and sour cream is critical for absorbing fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K) found in other parts of the meal. They also greatly contribute to the feeling of fullness and satisfaction, making the HashBrown Casserole a rich and satisfying component of any plate.
When incorporating this rich side dish into a meal, consider balancing it with lean protein (like grilled chicken or fish) and ample servings of fresh, green vegetables to create a wholesome, satisfying dining experience. Since this casserole is so dense and filling, small portions go a long way!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about HashBrown Casserole
We’ve compiled answers to the most common questions regarding the preparation and storage of this classic cheesy potato side dish, ensuring your cooking experience is seamless.
FAQs about the Perfect HashBrown Casserole
Can I prepare the HashBrown Casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely. This casserole is excellent for make-ahead preparation. Complete Steps 1 through 3, mixing the hashbrowns and creamy base, and spreading them into the greased baking dish. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, allow the casserole to sit at room temperature for 30 minutes while the oven preheats, then follow the remaining baking steps (Steps 4–6).
What is the best type of cheese to use for a rich HashBrown Casserole?
Sharp cheddar cheese is traditionally recommended because its robust flavor holds up against the rich cream and butter base. However, a blend of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack provides a superior melt factor. Always opt for block cheese that you shred yourself, as pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can hinder a smooth, gooey melt.
What can I substitute for the Cream of Chicken soup?
If you are aiming for a vegetarian dish, Cream of Mushroom or Cream of Celery soup are perfect substitutes that provide the same binding consistency and creamy texture. If you want to avoid canned condensed soups entirely, you can make a thick white sauce (béchamel) at home, using 1 1/2 cups of milk and a roux made from butter and flour.
How do I freeze leftover HashBrown Casserole?
Leftover HashBrown Casserole freezes well. Cool the baked casserole completely, then cut it into individual serving portions. Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil. Label and freeze for up to three months. Reheat frozen portions (uncovered) in a 350°F oven until heated through, approximately 30 minutes, or thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Is it okay to use diced hashbrowns instead of shredded ones?
While shredded hashbrowns are traditional and absorb the creamy sauce better, you can use frozen diced potatoes (often labeled “diced potatoes for hashbrowns”). If using diced potatoes, increase the initial bake time in Step 4 by about 10–15 minutes, as the cubes take longer to cook through and fully soften compared to thin shreds.
Conclusion: Serving Up the Ultimate Comfort Food
The HashBrown Casserole is more than just a side dish; it’s a symbol of gathering, celebration, and deeply satisfying comfort food. This recipe offers a perfect blend of rich, creamy texture and sharp, salty flavor, all capped off with a delightful crunch. By focusing on critical details like properly draining the thawed hashbrowns and allowing a crucial resting period you ensure a casserole that is perfectly set, beautifully golden, and guaranteed to disappear fast.
Whether you call them Funeral Potatoes, Cheesy Potatoes, or simply HashBrown Casserole, this dish is universally adored. It provides the ideal companion to holiday feasts, acts as a stellar potluck contribution, or shines as the star of a weekend brunch. Its ease of preparation and powerful flavor payoff make it an essential recipe in any home cook’s collection.
We encourage you to try this ultimate version of the HashBrown Casserole today. Don’t forget to experiment with the topping variations, perhaps adding a spicy twist or some savory bacon bits. Once you pull that bubbly, golden casserole from the oven, you’ll understand why this humble potato bake has achieved such iconic status. Share your creation with us in the comments below, or tell us your favorite variations. Happy cooking!

Classic Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole (Funeral Potatoes)
Equipment
- Large Mixing Bowl
- 9x13 inch Baking Dish
Ingredients
Casserole Base
- 1 bag Hashbrowns Frozen shredded hashbrowns, thawed (30-32 oz)
- 1 can Cream Soup Cream of Chicken Soup (10.5 oz)
- 1 container Sour Cream 16 ounces, full fat or reduced fat
- 1/2 cup Butter Unsalted butter, melted (1 stick)
- 2 cups Sharp Cheddar Cheese Shredded, divided (1 1/2 cups for mixing, 1/2 cup for topping)
- 1/2 medium Onion Finely chopped yellow onion (optional)
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper
Topping (Optional)
- 1 cup Crushed Cornflakes Or buttered Ritz crackers / crushed potato chips
- 2 tablespoons Butter (for topping) Melted
Instructions
Preparation and Mixing
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a standard 9x13 inch baking dish. Ensure the frozen hashbrowns are completely thawed; gently squeeze out any excess liquid using paper towels or a clean kitchen towel to prevent a soggy casserole.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the canned cream soup, sour cream, melted 1/2 cup butter, chopped onion (if using), salt, and black pepper until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Add 1 1/2 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese to the creamy mixture and stir. Reserve the remaining 1/2 cup of cheese for the final topping.
- Add the thawed, drained hashbrowns to the mixing bowl. Gently fold the hashbrowns into the creamy cheese base using a spatula until they are evenly coated. Do not overmix or mash the potatoes.
Baking and Finishing
- Transfer the entire hashbrown mixture into the prepared 9x13 inch baking dish and spread it into an even layer. Bake for 30 minutes.
- While baking, prepare the optional topping: In a small bowl, toss the crushed cornflakes (or chips/crackers) with 2 tablespoons of melted butter.
- After 30 minutes, remove the casserole from the oven. Sprinkle the reserved 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese evenly over the top, followed by the prepared crunchy topping (if using).
- Return the casserole to the oven and continue baking for another 15 to 20 minutes, or until the casserole is hot, bubbly around the edges, and the topping is deeply golden brown. Let it rest on a cooling rack for 10 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the casserole to set, making serving easier.