Imagine a dish so irresistibly creamy and cheesy that it turns ordinary weeknight dinners into extraordinary culinary experiences! This Cheesy Potato Casserole with Ore Ida hash browns is not just a side dish – it's a crowd-pleasing sensation that will have everyone at the table begging for seconds. Packed with melted cheddar, a luxurious creamy sauce, and perfectly crispy edges, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into a mouthwatering masterpiece that screams pure comfort food.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 20 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 package Ore Ida frozen hash browns
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9x13 inch baking dish by lightly greasing it with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
- Remove the Ore Ida frozen hash browns from the package and allow them to thaw slightly at room temperature for about 10 minutes. This will make them easier to mix and distribute evenly in the casserole.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, melted butter, salt, and pepper. Whisk these ingredients together until they are smooth and well incorporated.
- Add the thawed hash browns to the soup mixture. Gently fold and stir until the hash browns are completely coated with the creamy mixture.
- Fold in 1½ cups of the shredded cheddar cheese, reserving the remaining ½ cup for topping.
- Transfer the potato mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula to create a uniform layer.
- Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole, ensuring even coverage.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to prevent the top from browning too quickly.
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes.
- After 45 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling.
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before serving. This allows the casserole to set and makes it easier to serve.
- Serve hot as a delicious side dish, garnishing with chopped chives or green onions if desired.
Tips
- Allow hash browns to thaw slightly for easier mixing and more even distribution.
- Use full-fat sour cream and cheese for maximum creaminess and flavor.
- Don't skip the foil cover in the first baking stage to prevent excessive browning.
- Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes after baking to help it set and make serving easier.
- For extra crunch, consider adding a topping of crushed cornflakes or breadcrumbs before the final 15 minutes of baking.
- Experiment with different cheese varieties like Monterey Jack or a blend for unique flavor profiles.
- Ensure your oven is properly preheated for consistent cooking and optimal texture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 326kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: 18g
Cholesterol: mg
