HashBrown Casserole: The Ultimate Cheesy Comfort Food Recipe

There are certain dishes that simply define comfort, tradition, and celebration and the HashBrown Casserole is undoubtedly one of them. Known lovingly by many names, from cheesy potatoes to “funeral potatoes,” this creamy, decadent, and utterly addictive side dish is a staple at holiday gatherings, potlucks, and Sunday dinners across the country. It’s the perfect marriage of simple ingredients resulting in a complex, soul-satisfying flavor.

This recipe provides the quintessential guide to achieving the perfect HashBrown Casserole: creamy on the inside, wonderfully cheesy throughout, and topped with an irresistible golden-brown crunch. Whether you are searching for the ideal accompaniment to your holiday ham or a hearty side for your next BBQ, look no further. We break down the process step-by-step, ensuring your casserole turns out flawlessly every single time. Forget the dry, bland versions you might have encountered; this recipe guarantees rich moisture and robust flavor, transforming humble frozen hashbrowns into a culinary masterpiece. Get ready to bake a dish that everyone will ask you to bring again and again. Mastering the HashBrown Casserole is a fundamental skill for any home cook who values classic, heartwarming American cuisine.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy HashBrown Casserole Recipe

The appeal of the classic HashBrown Casserole goes far beyond its simplicity. It’s a versatile masterpiece that consistently delivers exceptional flavor and texture. If you are debating whether this is the next recipe you should tackle, here are several compelling reasons why this particular cheesy potato dish deserves a permanent spot in your rotation.

Unbeatable Texture Contrast

One of the most praised attributes of a well-executed HashBrown Casserole is the incredible textural contrast. You get the best of all worlds: a molten, velvety layer of sour cream and melted cheese surrounding the potatoes beneath a glorious, crispy crown. The crunchy topping, whether you opt for buttery crushed cornflakes or savory Ritz crackers, shatters perfectly upon serving, providing a delightful counterpoint to the tender, soft hashbrowns within. This dynamic texture prevents the dish from becoming monotonous, ensuring every bite is a balanced experience of creamy and crispy.

Effortless Preparation, Impressive Results

Despite its reputation as a luxurious holiday side, the preparation for this HashBrown Casserole is surprisingly straightforward. It relies almost entirely on pantry and freezer staples no complicated chopping, boiling, or peeling is required. The most involved step is simply ensuring your frozen hashbrowns are thawed and adequately drained, which is crucial for preventing a watery result. The rest of the process involves quick mixing in one bowl and transferring to a baking dish. This low-fuss approach makes it an ideal choice for busy weeks or large gatherings where you need a reliable, crowd-pleasing dish without spending hours in the kitchen.

The Ultimate Crowd-Pleaser and Potluck Star

Let’s face it: potatoes and cheese are universally loved. This HashBrown Casserole taps directly into that collective comfort food desire. It’s inherently shareable and scalable, making it perfect for potlucks, church gatherings, or family reunions. Unlike many delicate side dishes, this casserole travels incredibly well and reheats beautifully. When you show up with a 9×13 dish of golden, bubbly cheesy potatoes, you know it will be the first thing to disappear. It pairs seamlessly with heavy main courses like roast beef, smoked turkey, or a savory chicken dish, effortlessly elevating the entire meal.

Budget-Friendly Ingredients

Cooking for a crowd doesn’t have to break the bank. The ingredients required for this classic HashBrown Casserole are inexpensive and readily available at any grocery store. Frozen hashbrowns, canned soup, sour cream, and cheddar cheese form the core foundation. This affordability means you can easily double or triple the recipe for extra-large events, ensuring you have plenty of comforting goodness to go around without straining your budget. It’s practical, economical, and delivers high value in flavor for minimal cost.

Customizable Flavor Profile

While the classic version is sublime, this recipe serves as a fantastic foundation for personalization. Want a smoky kick? Add bacon bits or smoked paprika. Prefer a richer onion flavor? Increase the fresh onion or swap Cream of Chicken for Cream of Mushroom. The base is forgiving and adaptable, allowing you to tailor the flavor profile to match your main course or personal preferences. We dive into specific variations later, but the simple fact that you can mold this cheesy potato casserole to your liking is a huge benefit.

Why You Should Try This Classic HashBrown Casserole Today

If you’re still on the fence about whether to make this HashBrown Casserole, consider its unique place in comfort food history and its incredible utility in the modern kitchen. This isn’t just a recipe; it’s a piece of culinary heritage, perfect for injecting warmth and nostalgia into any meal.

A Holiday Table Essential

For many families, Thanksgiving and Christmas are incomplete without a serving of cheesy potatoes. Often referred to by its slightly somber, yet affectionate nickname, “funeral potatoes,” this dish signifies a gathering of friends and family, offering warmth during moments of both joy and sorrow. Integrating this specific HashBrown Casserole into your holiday menu ensures you are serving a time-honored classic that will resonate with guests young and old. It offers a much-needed creamy, decadent contrast to drier holiday staples like turkey or ham, cementing its role as a necessary companion to traditional feasts.

The Power of Simple Ingredients

In an age of complicated, multi-step recipes, there is a profound satisfaction in achieving spectacular flavor using only a handful of easily sourced ingredients. The genius of this HashBrown Casserole lies in how the melting butter, tangy sour cream, and umami-rich cream soup emulsify to create a lush, coating sauce without the need for a scratch-made roux. This simplicity saves time and energy, but more importantly, it guarantees success even for novice cooks. You don’t need exotic spices or techniques; just quality cheddar and proper preparation of the potatoes.

Ideal Make-Ahead Dish

One of the greatest logistical advantages of this recipe is its suitability for meal prep. The entire casserole mixture (Steps 1 through 3) can be assembled up to 24 hours in advance, covered tightly, and refrigerated. When you are ready to bake, simply pull it out, let it sit on the counter while the oven preheats, add the topping (if desired), and bake as instructed. This make-ahead capability is invaluable when entertaining, allowing you to focus on the main course or other complex elements of the meal without rushing the side dishes. Having a ready-to-bake HashBrown Casserole waiting in the fridge dramatically reduces holiday stress.

A Versatile Base for Weeknight Dinners

While celebrated during major holidays, the HashBrown Casserole shouldn’t be relegated to special occasions. It makes an incredible weeknight side, especially when paired with rotisserie chicken, meatloaf, or grilled sausage. Furthermore, it can be easily transformed into a main course by adding proteins like diced ham, cooked ground beef, or shredded chicken. Imagine pairing this creamy delight with a hearty bowl of soup, such as our Creamy Lasagna Soup or perhaps a flavorful bowl of Turkey Taco Soup. Its flexibility means you can adapt it to whatever you have on hand, ensuring zero food waste and maximum flavor payoff.

The satisfaction derived from pulling a bubbling, golden-brown pan of HashBrown Casserole from the oven is unmatched. The aroma of melted cheese, onions, and creamy potatoes fills the kitchen, signaling that a truly comforting meal is about to be served. Try this recipe, and discover why this simple potato dish remains an enduring favorite across American tables.

Ingredients and Necessary Utensils for the Perfect HashBrown Casserole

Achieving the rich, creamy texture and cheesy flavor of a traditional HashBrown Casserole depends heavily on ingredient quality and proper preparation. Below is a detailed breakdown of what you need and why each element is essential, followed by the recommended tools to ensure success.

H3: Essential Ingredients Checklist

This recipe calls for simple, readily available items that combine to create extraordinary flavor. Ensure all wet ingredients are at room temperature (except the soup, which comes from a can) for easier mixing and better emulsion.

• Hashbrowns: 1 (30-32 ounce) bag
  • Note on Preparation: This is arguably the most critical ingredient step. You MUST use frozen shredded hashbrowns, and they MUST be completely thawed. If they are still frozen, the cooking time will be significantly extended, and the final texture will be uneven. Crucially, gently squeeze out any excess liquid after thawing using paper towels or a clean kitchen towel. Excess water leads to a runny, soupy casserole, undermining the texture of the HashBrown Casserole.
• Cream Soup: 1 (10.5 ounce) can
  • Recommendation: Cream of Chicken Soup provides a slightly savory, neutral base that complements the potatoes and cheese well. However, Cream of Mushroom Soup is an excellent substitute, providing a deeper umami flavor, particularly if you are serving vegetarians or simply prefer mushrooms.
• Sour Cream: 1 (16 ounce) container
  • Function: Sour cream is essential for moisture, richness, and the signature tang that cuts through the heaviness of the cheese and butter. We recommend using full-fat sour cream for the best texture and flavor, though reduced-fat versions can be used successfully.
• Cheddar Cheese: 2 cups
  • Type: Sharp cheddar cheese is highly recommended. The sharp flavor stands up better to the creamy ingredients than mild cheddar.
  • Preparation: Shred your own cheese if possible! Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can slightly inhibit melting, leading to a grittier texture. Divide the cheese: 1 1/2 cups for the interior mixture and 1/2 cup reserved for the top layer.
• Butter: 1/2 cup (1 stick)
  • Preparation: Unsalted butter, melted. Butter provides richness and helps bind the mixture while adding depth to the potato flavor. Ensure it is cooled slightly after melting before incorporating it into the cream and sour cream mixture to prevent curdling.
• Onion: 1/2 medium
  • Preparation: Finely chopped yellow onion. This adds a subtle aromatic base. If you are sensitive to onion texture or short on time, substitute with 1 teaspoon of onion powder. Onion powder disperses evenly, ensuring flavor without chunks.
• Seasoning: 1 teaspoon Salt and 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper. Use freshly ground pepper for superior flavor. Given the salt content already present in the canned soup and butter, taste the mixture before adding additional salt.
• Optional Topping Components (For the Crunch):
  • Topping Choice (1 cup): Crushed cornflakes, buttered Ritz crackers, or potato chips. Cornflakes are the classic choice, providing excellent crunch and stability.
  • Topping Butter (2 tablespoons): Melted, for tossing with the optional topping. This ensures the topping browns beautifully and remains crunchy, rather than softening during the bake.

H3: Tools and Utensils for Preparing Cheesy Potato Casserole

You don’t need specialized equipment for this recipe, but having the right tools makes the assembly process fast and mess-free.

1. 9×13 Inch Baking Dish (Essential): A standard 9×13 inch (or 3-quart) dish is the perfect size for this recipe, ensuring the correct depth and surface area for even baking and a good topping-to-potato ratio. Glass or ceramic dishes work best for retaining heat and even cooking.
2. Large Mixing Bowl: You will need ample space to combine the creamy base and fold in the voluminous hashbrowns without mashing them. A large metal or glass bowl is necessary.
3. Whisk and Spatula: A whisk is needed to smooth out the canned soup and sour cream mixture. A large rubber spatula or wooden spoon is required for gently folding the hashbrowns into the sauce avoid aggressively mixing, as this can break down the potatoes and release more starch.
4. Measuring Cups and Spoons: Essential for accurate measuring of cheese, liquids, and seasonings.
5. Clean Kitchen Towel or Paper Towels: Absolutely necessary for drying the thawed hashbrowns.
6. Small Bowl (For Topping): To toss the topping mixture with the melted butter before assembly.

By securing these high-quality ingredients and ensuring proper preparation, especially the drainage of the potatoes, you are setting the stage for an unforgettable HashBrown Casserole that delivers maximum flavor and comforting richness. This comprehensive list guarantees you have everything needed before you even preheat the oven.

Detailed Recipe Steps: Mastering the Creamy HashBrown Casserole

Follow these steps precisely to achieve the signature creamy center and perfect golden crust that distinguishes a truly great HashBrown Casserole.

Step 1: Preparation – The Foundation for Success

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Proper preheating is key for consistent baking.
2. Grease Pan: Lightly grease a standard 9×13 inch baking dish. Use butter or a non-stick cooking spray to prevent the cheesy edges from sticking.
3. Thaw and Drain Hashbrowns: Ensure the frozen hashbrowns are completely thawed. This usually takes 4-6 hours in the refrigerator or about 30 minutes on the counter. THIS IS CRITICAL: Gently squeeze out any excess liquid using paper towels or a clean kitchen towel. If you skip this step, the final dish will be watery.

Step 2: Combine the Creamy Base

The creamy base is where all the flavor comes together. Take your time to whisk this mixture until it is smooth.

1. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the canned cream soup (Cream of Chicken or Mushroom), the full container of sour cream, the melted butter (ensure it is not scorching hot), the finely chopped onion (if using), salt, and black pepper. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
2. Add the Cheese: Add 1 1/2 cups of the shredded sharp cheddar cheese to the creamy mixture and stir to incorporate. Reserve the remaining 1/2 cup of cheese for sprinkling on the top later.

Step 3: Mix and Transfer

The goal here is even coating without damaging the potato texture.

1. Introduce the Hashbrowns: Add the dried, thawed hashbrowns to the mixing bowl containing the creamy cheese base.
2. Gently Fold: Using a spatula or wooden spoon, gently fold the hashbrowns into the mixture until they are evenly coated with the creamy sauce. Be careful not to mash the potatoes. You want them to retain their shredded texture for the best finished product.
3. Transfer to Pan: Pour the entire hashbrown mixture into the prepared 9×13 inch baking dish and spread it into an even layer using the back of your spatula.

Step 4: Bake (Initial Phase)

1. First Bake: Place the casserole in the center rack of the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes. This allows the internal mixture to start heating up, the cheese to melt, and the potatoes to soften completely.

Step 5: Add Topping (Optional but Highly Recommended)

The topping transforms this dish from merely creamy to truly exceptional. This two-part step introduces the final layer of cheese and the crunchy topping.

1. Prepare the Crunch: While the casserole is baking, prepare the optional crunchy topping. In a small bowl, toss the 1 cup of crushed cornflakes (or chips/crackers) with 2 tablespoons of melted butter. Make sure every piece is lightly coated. For visual inspiration on great side dish pairings, check out our boards on Pinterest.
2. Remove and Layer: After the initial 30 minutes of baking, remove the HashBrown Casserole from the oven.
3. Finish the Cheese Layer: Sprinkle the reserved 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the partially baked casserole.
4. Add Crunch: Follow immediately by sprinkling the prepared crunchy topping (if using) evenly over the layer of cheese.

Step 6: Finish Baking and Rest

1. Final Bake: Return the casserole to the oven and continue baking for another 15 to 20 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbling hot around the edges, the cheese is completely melted, and the topping is golden brown and crispy.
2. The Critical Rest: Remove the HashBrown Casserole from the oven and let it rest on a cooling rack for 10 minutes before serving. Do not skip the resting period! This allows the mixture to set properly, ensuring that when you scoop out a serving, it maintains its form rather than collapsing into a runny puddle.

Serve this perfect HashBrown Casserole hot and watch it disappear. This recipe provides around 10-12 generous servings, making it ideal for any family gathering or holiday feast.

Tips, Variations, and Troubleshooting for HashBrown Casserole

While the classic recipe is magnificent, knowing how to adapt it to dietary needs or how to fix common errors ensures you always have a perfect cheesy potato dish. Use these tips to elevate your HashBrown Casserole game.

Smart Ingredient Alternatives and Delicious Variations

Dietary Modifications

• Gluten-Free Version: Ensure your canned cream soup is certified gluten-free (many brands offer GF cream of mushroom or chicken). Always check the label on the hashbrowns, though most plain frozen varieties are naturally GF. If using a topping, replace crushed cornflakes with gluten-free crackers or potato chips.
• Vegetarian Cheesy Potato Casserole: Simply substitute the Cream of Chicken soup with Cream of Mushroom, Cream of Celery, or a suitable vegetarian cream soup alternative. The rest of the ingredients are naturally vegetarian.
• Dairy Reduction/Alternative: While challenging to maintain the classic flavor profile, you can use dairy-free sour cream and cheese alternatives. For the soup, use a dairy-free cream substitute thickened with a roux made from vegan butter and a GF flour/milk alternative.

Flavor Upgrades

• Adding Meat: To make the HashBrown Casserole a hearty main dish or just add flavor, stir in 1 cup of cooked, crumbled bacon, diced smoked ham, or shredded rotisserie chicken during Step 3.
• Spice and Heat: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper, 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika, or a dash of hot sauce into the creamy base. For a different twist, try serving alongside a spicy appetizer like our Cranberry Jalapeño Dip for a flavor contrast.
• Herbaceous Notes: Add 1 teaspoon of dried chives or dried parsley to the creamy mixture for a subtle fresh note. Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon) can also boost the savory profile dramatically.
• Cheese Swaps: While cheddar is classic, experiment with a blend of cheeses. Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or even a smoked Gouda can add wonderful complexity to the cheesy HashBrown Casserole.

Troubleshooting Common HashBrown Casserole Mistakes

Even simple recipes can have pitfalls. Here is how to avoid the most common issues when baking this cheesy potato casserole:

1. Issue: The Casserole is Runny or Soupy.
   • Fix: This is almost always due to excess moisture in the hashbrowns. Next time, be absolutely diligent about thawing the potatoes completely and squeezing out every drop of water before mixing. If it is already soupy halfway through baking, try raising the oven temperature slightly (to 375°F) for the last 15 minutes to encourage evaporation, but watch closely to prevent burning the top.
2. Issue: The Top is Burning Before the Inside is Cooked.
   • Fix: Your oven might run hot, or the topping layer is too thin/thick. If the topping is browning too quickly, lightly tent the dish with aluminum foil for the remaining bake time. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes to re-crisp.
3. Issue: The Hashbrowns are Dry or Bland.
   • Fix: Ensure you used the full amount of butter and sour cream. If the dish feels dry, you may have over-baked it. Always rely on visual cues (bubbling edges) rather than strictly time. For blandness, increase the seasoning (salt, pepper, onion powder) next time. The salt content in the soup is often enough, but fresh potatoes need proper seasoning.
4. Issue: Uneven Cooking.
   • Fix: Make sure the potatoes are spread in an even layer in the 9×13 dish. If the layer is too thick in the middle, the edges will cook before the center is hot. Also, ensure the oven rack is centered.

By implementing these tips and being mindful of the crucial drainage step, you can ensure your HashBrown Casserole is always creamy, cheesy, and perfectly set.

Nutritional Values and Benefits of HashBrown Casserole

The HashBrown Casserole is undeniably a comfort food staple, rich and savory, perfect for occasional indulgence or feeding a large crowd. While it’s not a low-calorie health food, understanding its components provides context on the energy and nutrients it offers.

General Nutritional Overview

Given the inclusion of full-fat dairy, canned cream soup, and butter, this casserole is calorie-dense and rich in saturated fats. A standard recipe yields approximately 10 to 12 servings. Nutritional estimates for a generous serving (using standard full-fat ingredients and assuming a 10-serving division):

• Calories: Approximately 380–450 calories per serving.
• Total Fat: Approximately 25–30 grams (with significant saturated fat content).
• Protein: Approximately 10–15 grams (derived from the dairy, cheese, and soup base).
• Carbohydrates: Approximately 30–35 grams (primarily from potatoes and soup thickeners).
• Sodium: High (due to canned soup, cheese, and added salt). Be mindful of this if monitoring sodium intake.

If you are looking to slightly lighten the load of the HashBrown Casserole, consider substituting full-fat sour cream with a reduced-fat Greek yogurt (which also adds a protein boost) or utilizing low-sodium cream soup varieties.

The Benefits of Key Ingredients

Even comfort foods offer valuable nutrients. The core ingredients of this classic dish contribute specific health benefits:

Potatoes (Hashbrowns)

The foundation of the HashBrown Casserole, potatoes, are often misunderstood. When prepared without excessive oil, they are highly nutritious:

• Potassium: Potatoes are an excellent source of potassium, which is vital for heart health, blood pressure regulation, and muscle function.
• Vitamin C: Potatoes contain a decent amount of Vitamin C, an essential antioxidant.
• Fiber: Although we use shredded potatoes, they still contribute dietary fiber, which aids in digestive health and promotes feelings of fullness.

Dairy Components (Cheese and Sour Cream)

Cheese and sour cream are primary sources of richness and flavor, but also deliver vital micronutrients:

• Calcium: Cheddar cheese and sour cream are rich in calcium, which is crucial for maintaining strong bones and teeth.
• Protein: Dairy products provide high-quality protein, essential for muscle repair and general body maintenance.
• Vitamin D: Many dairy products are fortified with Vitamin D, which is necessary for calcium absorption.

Onion (If Used)

The inclusion of fresh onion, even in small amounts, adds beneficial compounds:

• Antioxidants: Onions contain antioxidants and sulfur-containing compounds that have been linked to anti-inflammatory effects.

When incorporating a rich, savory dish like HashBrown Casserole into your diet, practice portion control and balance it with lighter fare, such as a large green salad or lean protein. This dish is meant to be savored, not wolfed down! Enjoying this delicious, homemade casserole in moderation ensures you reap the emotional benefits of classic comfort food alongside the nutritional value of potatoes and dairy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About HashBrown Casserole

We’ve compiled answers to the most common questions about baking and serving this delicious HashBrown Casserole, ensuring you have all the knowledge necessary for a successful dish.

Conclusion: The Timeless Appeal of HashBrown Casserole

The sheer dependability and deliciousness of a classic HashBrown Casserole make it one of the most beloved side dishes in American cuisine. This recipe, perfectly balanced with sharp cheddar, tangy sour cream, and a savory cream soup base, delivers on all fronts: rich, creamy, cheesy, and delightfully crunchy. We have shown you how to move beyond simple assembly to master techniques like proper potato draining and strategic layering, ensuring a perfect result every time you pull this cheesy potato casserole from the oven.

Whether you are hosting a festive holiday dinner, contributing to a casual neighborhood potluck, or simply craving the ultimate comfort food on a chilly evening, this HashBrown Casserole is guaranteed to be a hit. Its simple ingredient list belies the complex satisfaction it brings, and its ability to be prepared ahead of time makes it a logistical dream for busy cooks. We encourage you to try this definitive version, paying close attention to the crucial step of ensuring those hashbrowns are dry before mixing them into the creamy base.

Don’t let another gathering pass without the presence of this bubbling, golden masterpiece. Embrace the comfort, savor the flavor, and make this HashBrown Casserole your go-to recipe for cheesy potatoes. If you enjoyed preparing this dish, be sure to explore our other hearty comfort meals, such as our famous Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup, for more soul-satisfying inspiration. We would love to hear how your casserole turned out! Leave a comment below, share your favorite topping variation, and tell us who you shared this incredible comfort dish with.

Classic Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole (Funeral Potatoes)

This beloved Hashbrown Casserole, often called Funeral Potatoes, features creamy, cheesy shredded potatoes topped with a crunchy, buttery crust. It's the perfect easy side dish for holidays, potlucks, or family dinners.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 50 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 5 minutes mins

Servings: 12 servings

Course: Holiday, Side Dish

Cuisine: American, Comfort Food

Calories: 440

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Casserole Base

• 1 bag Frozen Hashbrowns 30-32 ounces, thawed and squeezed dry
• 1 can Cream Soup 10.5 ounces, Cream of Chicken or Cream of Mushroom
• 1 container Sour Cream 16 ounces, full fat recommended
• 2 cups Cheddar Cheese Sharp cheddar, shredded and divided (1 1/2 cups for mixture, 1/2 cup for topping)
• 1/2 cup Butter 1 stick, unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 medium Yellow Onion Finely chopped (optional)
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper Freshly ground preferred

Optional Topping

• 1 cup Crushed Topping Crushed cornflakes, buttered Ritz crackers, or potato chips
• 2 tablespoons Topping Butter Melted, for coating the topping

Equipment

• Large Mixing Bowl
• 9x13 inch baking dish
• Whisk

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a standard 9x13 inch baking dish. Ensure your frozen hashbrowns are completely thawed and gently squeeze them in a clean kitchen towel to remove excess moisture.

Mixing the Base

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the canned cream soup, sour cream, 1/2 cup of melted butter, chopped onion (if using), salt, and black pepper until the mixture is smooth and uniform.
2. Add 1 1/2 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese to the creamy mixture and stir to incorporate. Reserve the remaining 1/2 cup of cheese for the topping.

Assemble and Initial Bake

1. Add the thawed hashbrowns to the mixing bowl. Gently fold the hashbrowns into the creamy cheese base using a spatula until they are evenly coated. Do not mash the potatoes.
2. Pour the entire hashbrown mixture into the prepared 9x13 inch baking dish, spreading it into an even layer. Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes.

Add Topping and Finish Baking

1. While baking, prepare the optional topping: In a small bowl, toss the crushed cornflakes (or alternative) with the 2 tablespoons of melted butter.
2. After 30 minutes of baking, remove the casserole from the oven. Sprinkle the reserved 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese evenly over the top, followed by the prepared crunchy topping.
3. Return the casserole to the oven and continue baking for another 15 to 20 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly around the edges and the topping is golden brown. Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving to help the casserole set.

Notes

Ensure you squeeze as much liquid as possible from the thawed hashbrowns. If they retain too much moisture, the final casserole might be watery or runny. For a gluten-free option, use a cream soup substitute (like Cream of Celery) and top with crushed potato chips instead of cornflakes or Ritz crackers.