Creamy & Delicious Cheddar Cream Hash Browns

When you think of the ultimate comfort food, few dishes can rival the warm, creamy, and cheesy delight of Creamy & Delicious Cheddar Cream Hash Browns. Perfect for breakfast gatherings, weekend brunches, or as a crowd-pleasing side dish at family dinners, this recipe brings the kind of home-cooked satisfaction that never goes out of style. Imagine golden, shredded potatoes coated in a luscious, cheesy cream sauce and baked until bubbly and perfectly tender — that’s what this dish delivers in every bite.

This recipe takes inspiration from traditional hash brown casseroles found at Southern potlucks and cozy diner breakfasts. It’s a dish that feels nostalgic yet special, reminding you of family gatherings, holiday mornings, and the irresistible aroma of baked cheese and potatoes wafting from the oven. Whether served as a main comfort meal or a side for your next get-together, these creamy cheddar hash browns will become a cherished favorite on your table.

Ingredients

• 1 (30-ounce) bag frozen shredded hash browns, thawed

• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

• 1 cup sour cream

• 1 can (10.5 ounces) condensed cream of chicken soup (or cream of mushroom for a vegetarian version)

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

• 1/2 cup finely chopped onion

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

• 1/2 teaspoon paprika

• 1 cup crushed cornflakes or breadcrumbs (for topping)

• 2 tablespoons melted butter (for topping)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven.
   Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray.

2. Prepare the base mixture.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed hash browns, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, condensed soup, melted butter, and chopped onion.

3. Season the mixture.
   Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and paprika. Stir until all ingredients are evenly coated and well combined. The mixture should look rich, creamy, and slightly thick.

4. Transfer to the baking dish.
   Spoon the mixture evenly into your prepared 9×13-inch pan, spreading it out to form a smooth layer.

5. Prepare the topping.
   In a small bowl, mix crushed cornflakes (or breadcrumbs) with the 2 tablespoons of melted butter. Stir until evenly coated.

6. Add the topping.
   Sprinkle the buttery topping evenly over the potato mixture. This creates a golden, crunchy layer once baked.

7. Bake to perfection.
   Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45–55 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.

8. Cool slightly before serving.
   Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. This allows the creamy base to thicken and makes it easier to scoop.

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 50 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Yield: 8 servings

Notes

• Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover tightly, and refrigerate overnight. Bake the next day when ready to serve.

• Vegetarian Option: Swap the cream of chicken soup for cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup.

• Cheese Variations: Try using a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack for an extra creamy finish.

• Topping Ideas: For a twist, use crushed Ritz crackers or panko breadcrumbs for the topping instead of cornflakes.

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven for best texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The charm of Creamy & Delicious Cheddar Cream Hash Browns lies in its simplicity and heartwarming flavor. Every forkful delivers a balance of creamy potatoes, melted cheese, and buttery crisp topping — a combination that feels indulgent yet familiar. It’s the kind of dish that brings people together, whether you’re hosting a brunch or enjoying a quiet Sunday morning with coffee and good company.

Another reason to love this recipe is how effortlessly it can be adapted. You can easily customize it with vegetables like diced bell peppers, spinach, or broccoli for added nutrition. Or keep it classic for that nostalgic diner-style experience. The ingredients are affordable and accessible, making this a go-to dish for families who love homemade comfort food without fuss.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole pairs wonderfully with a variety of meals. For breakfast, serve it alongside scrambled eggs and fresh fruit for a hearty start to your day. At lunch or dinner, it complements roasted chicken, grilled steak, or baked fish beautifully. You can even bring it to holiday gatherings — it fits perfectly next to roasted turkey or glazed ham (without needing to mention or include it in the dish).

If you’re hosting guests, consider garnishing the top with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or green onions for color and freshness. The vibrant green accent enhances its presentation and adds a light, aromatic touch to balance the richness of the dish.

Storage and Reheating Tips

To keep the creamy texture intact, allow leftovers to cool completely before storing. Transfer them into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to four days. When ready to enjoy again, reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or until warmed through. Avoid using the microwave for large portions, as it can make the topping soggy.

For long-term storage, this casserole also freezes well. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or tightly wrapped foil. Freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

How to Make It Extra Creamy

The secret to achieving the perfect creamy texture lies in the balance of ingredients. The combination of sour cream and condensed soup creates a luxurious base that coats every strand of potato. Adding freshly shredded cheese (rather than pre-packaged) ensures a smoother melt and richer taste.

If you want an even creamier consistency, increase the sour cream slightly or mix in a few tablespoons of cream cheese. The additional creaminess enhances the mouthfeel without overpowering the sharp cheddar flavor.

Another pro tip: don’t overmix the hash browns. Gently fold everything together so the potatoes keep their shape. This gives your casserole the ideal texture — creamy inside, slightly crisp on top.

The Secret to the Perfect Crunchy Topping

A signature feature of this recipe is its golden, crunchy topping. It’s what turns a simple potato bake into a show-stopping casserole. The key is to use the right topping-to-butter ratio. When the crumbs or cornflakes are coated evenly with melted butter, they bake up crisp and golden without becoming greasy.

If you prefer a lighter texture, use panko breadcrumbs. For a more traditional Southern-style topping, go with cornflakes. You can even mix half and half for a fun texture contrast. Whatever you choose, sprinkle it evenly over the creamy hash browns before baking — and watch as your kitchen fills with the irresistible aroma of bubbling cheese and toasted butter.

Tips for Hosting with This Recipe

If you’re hosting a brunch, this dish can easily be the centerpiece. Prepare two pans — one classic and one with added vegetables like chopped spinach or diced bell peppers — so guests can choose their favorite version. Serve it alongside fruit salad, scrambled eggs, and warm biscuits for a complete, comforting spread.

For family gatherings or potlucks, it’s the perfect dish to make ahead and transport. Cover it tightly with foil and reheat it at the event for a freshly baked taste. Its irresistible aroma and cheesy golden crust will make it disappear fast — so consider doubling the batch if you’re feeding a crowd.

The Comfort of Tradition

There’s something timeless about creamy potato casseroles. They remind us of simpler days — when family recipes were passed down through generations, and comfort food brought everyone to the table. This Creamy & Delicious Cheddar Cream Hash Browns recipe captures that same spirit, blending classic flavors with an easy modern approach.

Each bite delivers warmth and nostalgia — that unmistakable homemade taste that feels like home. It’s more than just a side dish; it’s a comforting reminder of how food can bring people together and turn ordinary moments into cherished memories.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?

Yes! You can use fresh potatoes if you prefer. Peel and shred about 6 medium russet potatoes, then rinse them in cold water to remove excess starch. Pat dry thoroughly before mixing with the other ingredients. Keep in mind that fresh potatoes may release a bit more moisture, so you might need to bake the casserole slightly longer for the perfect texture.

What kind of cheese works best for this recipe?

Sharp cheddar is the classic choice because of its bold flavor and smooth melting quality. However, you can mix it with Colby Jack, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack for extra creaminess. Using freshly grated cheese instead of pre-shredded varieties helps prevent clumping and ensures an even melt.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely. This is a fantastic make-ahead dish for busy mornings or special occasions. Simply prepare the mixture, spread it in your baking dish, cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight. When ready to serve, bake as directed — adding about 10 extra minutes to account for the cold temperature.

What can I serve with creamy cheddar hash browns?

This casserole is versatile enough to complement any meal. Pair it with eggs, pancakes, or waffles for a comforting breakfast spread. For dinner, it goes wonderfully with roasted chicken, turkey, or even a fresh garden salad. Its creamy richness balances perfectly with lighter, crisp sides.

Creamy & Delicious Cheddar Cream Hash Browns

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Michelle Davis
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

When you’re craving pure comfort, few dishes satisfy quite like a creamy, cheesy hash brown bake. This Creamy & Delicious Cheddar Cream Hash Browns recipe combines tender shredded potatoes, rich sour cream, and sharp cheddar for a dish that’s both indulgent and heartwarming. Perfect for family brunches, Sunday dinners, or potluck gatherings, it’s the kind of dish that brings people together around the table — warm, golden, and bubbling with flavor.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• • 1 (30-ounce) bag frozen shredded hash browns, thawed

  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

  • 1 cup sour cream

  • 1 can (10.5 ounces) condensed cream of chicken soup (or cream of mushroom for a vegetarian option)

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

  • 1/2 cup finely chopped onion

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

  • 1 teaspoon onion powder

  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika

  • 1 cup crushed cornflakes or breadcrumbs (for topping)

  • 2 tablespoons melted butter (for topping)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed hash browns, shredded cheddar, sour cream, condensed soup, melted butter, and chopped onion.

• Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and paprika. Stir until evenly mixed.

• Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish, smoothing the top.

• In a small bowl, mix crushed cornflakes or breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons of melted butter until coated.

• Sprinkle the buttery topping evenly over the casserole.

• Bake uncovered for 45–55 minutes, or until the top is golden and the edges are bubbling.

• Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.

Notes

• For a vegetarian version, use cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup.

• Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-packaged cheese and gives a smoother texture.

• Make it ahead: Prepare the casserole, cover tightly, and refrigerate overnight. Bake the next day as directed.

• For a crispier topping, use panko breadcrumbs or crushed crackers instead of cornflakes.

• Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days and reheated in the oven for best results.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes

Michelle Davis