The Legendary Hashbrown Casserole: The Potluck Hero That Defines Comfort Food

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The Legendary Hashbrown Casserole: The Potluck Hero That Defines Comfort Food

When it comes to comfort food that instantly brings people together, few dishes rival the iconic hashbrown casserole. This golden, cheesy, and creamy masterpiece has earned its spot at potlucks, family gatherings, and holiday brunches across the country. Its appeal lies not just in its irresistible taste, but also in its ability to combine simple ingredients into a dish that feels indulgent yet approachable. If you’ve ever wondered how to make this potluck hero yourself, here’s a step-by-step guide to creating a hashbrown casserole that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before you start, gather the following staples. The beauty of this casserole is that it’s flexible, so you can adjust ingredients to taste:

Frozen shredded hashbrowns – 30 oz (about 850 g), thawed
Cream of chicken soup – 1 can (10.5 oz / 300 g)
Sour cream – 1 cup (240 ml)
Butter – ½ cup (115 g), melted
Cheddar cheese – 2 cups (200 g), shredded
Onion powder – 1 teaspoon
Garlic powder – ½ teaspoon
Salt and pepper – to taste
Optional topping: crushed cornflakes or breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons melted butter for a crunchy finish

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly with butter or non-stick spray to ensure the casserole doesn’t stick. This simple step helps in getting a perfect golden crust on the edges.

Step 2: Mix the Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed hashbrowns, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, melted butter, cheddar cheese, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir gently until all ingredients are evenly coated. Be careful not to overmix; you want the casserole to retain a slightly chunky texture for that perfect bite.

Step 3: Transfer to Baking Dish

Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. If you’re aiming for extra texture, sprinkle your optional topping of crushed cornflakes or breadcrumbs over the casserole. This step adds a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy interior.