If you’ve ever been to a Southern church supper, holiday brunch, or family reunion, you know the legend: a golden, bubbling 9x13 pan of Hashbrown Casserole that disappears before the deviled eggs even hit the table.
This iconic dish—sometimes called “Funeral Potatoes” (not because it’s sad, but because it’s a staple at post-service meals)—is a hearty, creamy, cheesy masterpiece made with frozen hash browns, sour cream, melted cheese, and a buttery cornflake or Ritz cracker topping. It’s comfort food at its most generous, and the best part? It’s easy, affordable, and feeds a crowd.
Why This Casserole Belongs in Your Rotation
🥔 Uses frozen hash browns—no peeling, no pre-cooking
🧀 Creamy, cheesy, and deeply satisfying
⏱️ Ready in 45 minutes—less time than delivery!
💸 Costs under $10—feeds 8–10 people
🥣 One dish, minimal cleanup
If you love meals that are hearty, nostalgic, and guaranteed to please, this is your new go-to.
Ingredients You’ll Need
(Serves 8–10)
HomeHashbrown Casserole
Hashbrown Casserole
For the Filling:
1 (30 oz) bag frozen shredded hash browns, thawed
1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup
1½ cups sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt)
2 cups (8 oz) shredded cheddar cheese, divided
½ cup (1 stick / 115g) unsalted butter, melted
½ cup chopped onion (optional)
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
For the Topping:
2 cups crushed cornflakes, Ritz crackers, or buttery round crackers
¼ cup (½ stick / 57g) unsalted butter, melted
Optional: ½ tsp paprika or chopped parsley for color
💡 Pro Tips:
Thaw and drain hash browns well—pat dry with paper towels to prevent sogginess.
Use freshly shredded cheese—pre-shredded contains anti-caking agents that don’t melt smoothly.
For extra crunch: Add ½ cup chopped pecans or fried onions to the topping.
Step-by-Step Instructions (Easy, Creamy, Foolproof)
1. Prep & Preheat
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
2. Mix the Filling
In a large bowl, combine hash browns, both cream soups, sour cream, 1½ cups cheddar, melted butter, onion (if using), salt, and pepper.
Stir until evenly coated.
3. Assemble the Casserole
Pour mixture into the baking dish and spread evenly.
Top with remaining ½ cup cheese.
4. Add the Crunchy Topping
In a small bowl, mix cracker crumbs and melted butter.
Sprinkle evenly over the cheese layer.
5. Bake to Golden Perfection
Bake 40–45 minutes, until bubbly and topping is deep golden brown.
Let rest 10 minutes before serving (helps it set).
Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
Prep ahead: Assemble (unbaked), cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 10 mins to bake time.
Freeze: Cool baked casserole, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight, reheat at 350°F.
Leftovers: Keep in fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in oven or skillet for best texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this vegetarian?
A: Yes! Use cream of celery soup or mushroom soup, and vegetable broth-based sour cream.
Q: My casserole is watery—what happened?
A: Likely from undrained hash browns. Always thaw, drain, and pat dry.
Q: Can I use fresh potatoes?
A: Yes—but shred and par-cook them first (boil 5 mins), then drain well.
Q: Is this gluten-free?
A: Use GF cream soups and GF crackers (like Schär or homemade).
A Dish Full of Tradition
Hashbrown Casserole isn’t just food—it’s a gesture of care. It’s what you bring to a grieving neighbor, serve at Christmas brunch, or bake when you want everyone to leave full and happy.
So grab that bag of hash browns, melt that butter, and let your oven fill your kitchen with the scent of comfort. Because some of the best meals aren’t fancy—they’re cheesy, creamy, and made with love.
Do you add bacon, onions, or keep it classic?
Share your family’s version in the comments! And if this recipe brought back a wave of nostalgia—or saved your next potluck—pass it on to someone who believes in the magic of a simple casserole. 🥔🧀✨