Name: Grandma's Beef Hash Brown Casserole-Family Favorite
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 1 h 5 min
Total time: 1 h 35 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 pounds Russet potatoes, peeled and grated; 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted; 1 cup chopped yellow onion; 1 pound ground beef, cooked and drained; 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese; 1 can (10.5 ounces) condensed cream of chicken soup; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1/4 cup milk; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder; Optional: Extra shredded cheese for topping

Grandmas Hash Brown Casserole is more than just a dish; it’s a warm hug on a plate, a trip down memory lane, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. There’s something undeniably comforting about this creamy, cheesy, and utterly delicious baked creation. It’s the kind of recipe that instantly conjures images of cozy Sunday brunches, holiday gatherings, and the simple joy of sharing a meal with loved ones. What makes Grandmas Hash Brown Casserole so special? It’s that perfect balance of crispy potato edges and a lusciously smooth, savory interior, all enveloped in a rich, cheesy sauce that will have everyone asking for seconds. This isn’t just any hash brown bake; it’s the kind of recipe that becomes a cherished family tradition, passed down through generations because its deliciousness simply never fades. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this ultimate comfort food classic.

Ingredients:

2 pounds Russet potatoes, peeled and grated
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
1 cup chopped yellow onion
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
1 can (10.5 ounces) condensed cream of chicken soup
1/2 cup sour cream
1/4 cup milk
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Optional: Extra shredded cheese for topping

Preparing the Potatoes and Onions

Step 1: Grate the Potatoes

Begin extract by thoroughly washing and peeling your Russet potatoes. Russets are ideal for this casserole because their starch content helps create that wonderfully creamy texture we’re aiming for. Once peeled, grate the potatoes using the large holes of a box grater. It’s crucial to grate them relatively coarsely; fine shreds can turn mushy. After grating, place the shredded potatoes in a colander set over a bowl. This is a vital step to remove excess moisture, which can make your hash brown casserole watery. Gently press down on the potatoes with your hands or the back of a spoon to squeeze out as much liquid as possible. The drier the potatoes, the crispier and more delightful your casserole will be. Discard the potato water.

Step 2: Sauté the Onions

In a medium skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the chopped yellow onion and sauté until it becomes softened and translucent, which should take about 5-7 minutes. You don’t want them to brown deeply, just to become tender and release their sweet aroma. This gentle sautéing mellows the onion’s sharpness, allowing its sweetness to enhance the overall flavor of the casserole without being overpowering. Remove the skillet from the heat and set aside.

Assembling the Casserole

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients and Seasonings

In a large mixing bowl, combine the condensed cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and milk. Whisk these ingredients together until they are smooth and well incorporated. This forms the creamy base of our hash brown casserole. Next, add the salt, black pepper, and garlic powder to this mixture. Stir everything until the seasonings are evenly distributed. Tasting the mixture at this point is a good idea to adjust the salt and pepper if needed, keeping in mind the cheese will also add saltiness.

Step 4: Mix Everything Together

To the bowl with the creamy mixture, add the drained grated potatoes, the sautéed onions, and half of the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and half of the shredded Monterey Jack cheese. Gently fold all the ingredients together using a spatula or large spoon until the potatoes and onions are completely coated in the creamy sauce and the cheese is evenly distributed. Be careful not to overmix, as this can break down the potato shreds. The goal is to have everything evenly combined for a consistent texture throughout the baked casserole.

Baking the Grandmas Hash Brown Casserole

Step 5: Bake and Serve

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking. Pour the mixture from the mixing bowl into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Now, for that extra layer of cheesy goodness, sprinkle the remaining shredded sharp cheddar cheese and Monterey Jack cheese over the top of the casserole. If you’re feeling extra indulgent, you can add even more cheese! Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. This helps the casserole cook through evenly without the top browning too quickly. Bake for 45 minutes.

Step 6: Brown the Topping

After 45 minutes, carefully remove the aluminum foil from the baking dish. Increase the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C). Return the uncovered casserole to the oven and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. The cheese should be melted and slightly crispy in places, and the edges of the casserole should be nicely browned. Let the Grandmas Hash Brown Casserole rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This allows the casserole to set up slightly, making it easier to serve and preventing it from being too runny. Enjoy this comforting and delicious side dish!

Conclusion:

And there you have it – a truly comforting and delicious Grandmas Hash Brown Casserole! This recipe is more than just a dish; it’s a hug on a plate, perfect for any occasion. We’ve walked through creating this classic, from layering those flavorful ingredients to achieving that perfectly golden-brown crust. Remember, the beauty of Grandmas Hash Brown Casserole lies in its simplicity and its ability to satisfy. Don’t be afraid to make it your own! Serve it up hot as a hearty breakfast, a delightful brunch centerpiece, or a crowd-pleasing side dish for dinner. For a richer experience, consider adding crum extractbled beef bacon or finely diced beef ham. If you’re looking for a lighter touch, a sprinkle of fresh chives or parsley before serving adds a vibrant freshness. We truly hope you enjoy making and sharing this wonderful casserole. Happy cooking!

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I make Grandmas Hash Brown Casserole ahead of time?

Yes, absolutely! You can assemble the Grandmas Hash Brown Casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, remove the plastic wrap and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated through. It’s a fantastic way to save time on busy mornings or when hosting guests.

What kind of hash browns work best for Grandmas Hash Brown Casserole?

For the best texture and flavor in your Grandmas Hash Brown Casserole, we recommend using frozen, shredded hash browns. They tend to hold their shape well and provide that classic crispy-yet-creamy consistency. While some recipes might call for diced hash browns, shredded ones generally yield a superior result in this particular casserole.