This classic Hashbrown Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, featuring shredded potatoes smothered in a rich, creamy cheese sauce. Often referred to as funeral potatoes, this dish is a staple at holiday gatherings and potlucks due to its savory flavor and satisfying texture. The combination of sour cream, melted butter, and sharp cheddar cheese creates a decadent base that perfectly complements the mild potato flavor.

Preparation is incredibly simple, requiring just a few minutes of mixing before the casserole is popped into the oven. To achieve the signature golden finish, many versions include a crunchy topping made from crushed cornflakes or buttery breadcrumbs. Once baked, the interior remains soft and cheesy while the edges become delightfully crisp, making it an irresistible side dish for breakfast, brunch, or dinner.

Key Ingredients

• 32 ounces frozen shredded hash browns, thawed
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 can (10.25 ounces) cream of chicken soup
• 16 ounces sour cream
• 1/2 cup yellow onion, finely chopped
• 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed hash browns, melted butter, cream of chicken soup, and sour cream.
3. Add the finely chopped onion, 1 1/2 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese, salt, and black pepper to the bowl.
4. Stir all the ingredients together thoroughly until the hash browns are evenly coated with the creamy mixture.
5. Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula.
6. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbly.
8. Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving to allow it to set.

This Hashbrown Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, offering a creamy, cheesy interior paired with a perfectly golden, crunchy topping. It is an incredibly reliable side dish that complements everything from holiday hams to simple weeknight roasted chicken. Because it uses simple, pantry-staple ingredients, you can whip it up with minimal effort whenever you need a crowd-pleasing addition to your table.

One of the best features of this recipe is its versatility and make-ahead potential. You can easily prepare the casserole a day in advance and keep it in the refrigerator until you are ready to bake, making it ideal for busy mornings or large family gatherings. Whether you are hosting a festive brunch or bringing a dish to a potluck, this warm and satisfying casserole is guaranteed to be a hit with guests of all ages.