Print

Crispy Hash Brown Casserole Recipe with Sour Cream and Onion Crunch

crispy hash brown casserole - featured image

A quick, comforting, and filling hash brown casserole featuring a creamy sour cream base and a crispy fried onion topping that delivers the perfect balance of creamy and crunchy.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 (30 oz) bag frozen shredded hash browns, thawed slightly
  • 1 cup full-fat sour cream (can substitute Greek yogurt)
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or mild)
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup (can substitute cream of mushroom for vegetarian)
  • 4 tablespoons butter, melted
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 1/2 cups crispy fried onions
  • Fresh chives or green onions (optional garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. If frozen, allow hash browns to thaw slightly and pat dry with paper towels if wet.
  3. In a large bowl, combine thawed hash browns, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, cream of chicken soup, melted butter, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir gently until evenly coated without overmixing.
  4. Transfer mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and spread evenly with a spatula, smoothing the top but not compacting it too much.
  5. Sprinkle crispy fried onions evenly over the top.
  6. Bake uncovered for 45 minutes or until bubbly and the topping is deep golden brown with crispy edges.
  7. Check doneness by inserting a fork into the center; it should come out hot and the casserole should hold its shape.
  8. Let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to set.
  9. Optional: Garnish with chopped fresh chives or green onions before serving.

Notes

Thaw and pat dry hash browns to avoid soggy casserole. Use freshly shredded cheese for better melt and texture. If topping browns too quickly, cover loosely with foil after 30 minutes. For gluten-free, use gluten-free fried onions and soup. Can be assembled ahead and refrigerated overnight before baking.

Nutrition

Keywords: hash brown casserole, crispy hash browns, sour cream casserole, onion crunch, comfort food, easy casserole, cheesy casserole