Hashbrown Casserole

5-ingredient Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole is my go to fix for those days when I need something warm, filling, and basically guaranteed to make everyone happy. You know the vibe, you open the fridge, you see random odds and ends, and your brain is like, please do not make me think too hard today. This is that kind of recipe. It is cheesy, creamy, and the top gets that golden bubbly look that makes people wander into the kitchen asking, what is that? The best part is it feels like comfort food, but it is seriously simple to pull off.

Key Ingredients

I promised simple, and I mean it. This casserole is built around five ingredients that are easy to find and easy to keep on hand. I have made it for brunch, for potlucks, and for those nights when dinner just needs to appear without drama.

Here is what you need for 5-ingredient Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole:

• Frozen shredded hash browns (about 30 to 32 ounces, thawed if you have time)
• Sour cream for that tangy creamy base
• Cream of chicken soup (or cream of mushroom if that is what you love)
• Shredded cheddar cheese (sharp cheddar brings the most flavor)
• Melted butter for richness and that classic comfort taste

A quick note on the hash browns: if you forget to thaw them, it is not the end of the world. You may just need a few extra minutes in the oven. Also, shred-style hash browns work best for that scoopable casserole texture.

If you are on a casserole kick lately, you might also like this cozy bacon egg and hashbrown casserole. It is a little more breakfast leaning, but it hits the same comfort zone.

How to Make Hash Brown Casserole

This is the kind of recipe where you mix, dump, bake, and suddenly you are a hero. I usually make it in a 9×13 dish, and I always grease it lightly so the edges do not stick. This is also one of those dishes that smells amazing while it bakes, like a little warning to your family that dinner is going to be good.

Step by step (no stress)

1) Heat your oven to 350 F.

2) In a big bowl, stir together sour cream, cream of chicken soup, melted butter, and most of the shredded cheese. Save a small handful of cheese for the top if you want it extra pretty.

3) Fold in the hash browns until everything is coated. It should look creamy, not dry.

4) Spread into your baking dish, then sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.

5) Bake for about 45 to 55 minutes, until it is hot throughout and bubbling around the edges. If you like a deeper golden top, pop it under the broiler for 1 to 2 minutes, but watch it closely.

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I have made 5-ingredient Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole enough times to know this one thing: let it rest about 5 to 10 minutes before serving. It thickens a little and scoops cleaner. If you cut right away, it is still delicious, just a bit looser.

When I am feeding a bigger crowd and want more of an all in one dinner vibe, I will pair this with another baked dish like this cheesy hamburger rice casserole. Everyone ends up happy and nobody leaves hungry.

“I made this for a weekend brunch and my picky nephew went back for seconds. The cheesy top sold him, and the leftovers reheated perfectly the next day.”

Can I Freeze Hash Brown Casseroles?

Yes, you totally can, and it is one of my favorite reasons to make this recipe. 5-ingredient Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole is freezer friendly, which means future you gets a break.

Freezing it before baking

If you want the best texture, assemble the casserole in a freezer safe dish, cover it tightly, and freeze. I like doing a layer of plastic wrap pressed close to the surface, then a layer of foil. Label it with the date, because freezer mystery meals are not as fun as they sound.

To bake: thaw in the fridge overnight if you can, then bake at 350 F until hot and bubbly. If you bake straight from frozen, it will take longer. Plan on adding 20 to 30 minutes and check the center for heat.

Freezing leftovers

Leftovers freeze well too. Scoop portions into containers so you can reheat only what you need. For reheating, the oven or air fryer helps bring back some of that top texture, but the microwave still works for quick lunches.

If you are someone who loves stocking the freezer with comfort food, take a look at this easy tuna casserole pasta bake too. It is another practical, cozy option for busy weeks.

Ways to Add Even More Flavor

Even though this is a five ingredient situation, you can absolutely dress it up when you feel like it. I keep the base recipe the same, then add one or two extras depending on the mood, who is coming over, and what is already in my fridge.

Here are simple upgrades that work really well:

Add onions: A handful of chopped green onions or a few spoonfuls of sautéed diced onion adds a nice savory bite.

Add protein: Diced ham, cooked crumbled sausage, or shredded rotisserie chicken turns it into a full meal.

Boost the cheese: Mix in a little Monterey Jack or pepper jack if you like a mild kick.

Season it: A pinch of garlic powder, black pepper, or smoked paprika goes a long way. Just do not go wild, since the soup and cheese already bring salt.

Crunchy topping: If you are willing to break the five ingredient rule, crushed cornflakes or buttery crackers on top are ridiculously good.

I do this same kind of flavor boosting with other cozy bakes too, like this chicken and broccoli cheesy casserole. Once you get comfortable with the basic method, casseroles start feeling really flexible.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole is rich and comforting, so I like serving it with things that feel fresh or simple. It is also great as part of a brunch spread, especially when you want something hearty that does not require you to stand at the stove flipping pancakes all morning.

My favorite ways to serve 5-ingredient Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole:

• With eggs: scrambled, fried, or baked, whatever is easiest
• With a simple salad: something crisp with a light dressing cuts the richness
• With roasted veggies: broccoli, green beans, or Brussels sprouts are great
• With fruit at brunch: grapes, berries, or melon keeps it balanced
• Alongside a main: baked chicken, ham, or even grilled sausages

And yes, it is absolutely fair to eat it straight from the pan while you are packing leftovers. I have done that more times than I will admit.

Common Questions

Do I have to thaw the hash browns first?

No, but it helps. Thawed hash browns mix more evenly, and the casserole bakes a little faster. If they are frozen, just add a bit of bake time and stir well so you do not get cold pockets.

Can I use cream of mushroom soup instead of cream of chicken?

Yes. Cream of mushroom gives it a slightly earthier flavor. Cream of chicken tastes more classic to me, but both work.

How do I know when it is done?

The edges should be bubbling and the middle should look hot and set, not soupy. If you poke the center with a spoon, it should feel steamy and warm all the way through.

Can I make it ahead of time for a party?

Definitely. Mix it up the night before, cover, and refrigerate. Bake it the next day and add 5 to 10 extra minutes since it is going in cold.

What is the best cheese to use?

Sharp cheddar is my favorite because it actually tastes cheesy. Pre shredded works, but freshly grated melts a bit smoother if you have the time.

One last thing before you bake

If you are craving a nostalgic diner style version, I also love checking out this Copy Cat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole Recipe for a fun comparison. And if you want a meatier twist that still keeps it simple, this 5-Ingredient Sausage Hash Brown Casserole – State of Dinner is a great idea for weekends.

At the end of the day, 5-ingredient Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole is the kind of recipe that saves dinner when you are tired and still want something that feels like a hug. Keep the base simple, tweak it when you want, and do not overthink it. If you make it, I hope you get that bubbly golden top and the kind of leftovers you actually look forward to.