5. Transfer to Baking Dish
Pour the mixture into the prepared 9×13-inch dish. Spread it evenly with a spatula, making sure it reaches the edges. This helps the top layer brown evenly.
6. Add Toppings
Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese evenly on top. For an extra crunchy topping, mix crushed cornflakes or breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the cheese. This step is optional but highly recommended for texture contrast.
7. Bake to Perfection
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 45–55 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbly. If your topping browns too quickly, cover loosely with foil during the last 10–15 minutes of baking.
8. Serve and Enjoy
Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. This allows the casserole to set slightly and makes it easier to slice. Serve hot as a side dish for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or even as a hearty brunch option.
Tips for the Best Hashbrown Casserole
- Cheese Variety: Mix cheddar with mozzarella or pepper jack for extra flavor.
- Add-Ins: For extra protein, fold in cooked bacon, ham, or diced chicken.
- Vegetable Boost: Add finely chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for added nutrition.
- Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole the night before, cover it, and refrigerate. Bake it the next day for a time-saving meal.
Why This Dish Works
Hashbrown casserole is beloved because it balances creamy, cheesy richness with a crispy, golden top, creating a comforting contrast. The simplicity of ingredients also makes it highly adaptable, perfect for experimenting with different cheeses, meats, or vegetables to suit your family’s taste.
Final Thoughts
This Hashbrown Casserole is more than just a side dish — it’s a versatile, crowd-pleasing favorite that brings warmth and flavor to any table. Easy to prepare, baked to perfection, and endlessly customizable, it’s a recipe worth keeping in your culinary repertoire. Whether for a lazy weekend breakfast or a festive holiday spread, this casserole is guaranteed to disappear fast!
If you want, I can also make a quick cheat sheet version of this recipe with timings, ingredients, and steps in one glance, perfect for the kitchen while cooking.
Do you want me to make that?
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