Do I Have to Thaw Frozen Hash Browns for Casserole?

Yes, always thaw frozen hash browns before using them in a casserole. Skipping this step can result in excess water being released during baking, leading to a mushy texture. Thaw the hash browns in the refrigerator overnight or use the microwave for a quicker option.

Why Is My Hash Brown Casserole Mushy?

A mushy casserole often results from excess moisture. To prevent this, thaw and pat your hash browns dry before assembling the dish. Another key tip is to avoid overloading the casserole with too much sauce, as it can overwhelm the other ingredients.

What Goes with Hash Brown Casserole?

Hash brown casseroles are incredibly versatile and pair well with a variety of sides. Serve it with sautéed vegetables, garlic bread, or even a bowl of hearty soup. For breakfast or brunch, bacon, sausage, or scrambled eggs make excellent accompaniments.

Should You Cook Hash Browns in Butter or Oil?

Both butter and oil can work, but each adds a different flavor profile. Butter gives the hash browns a rich, savory taste, while oil, particularly canola or vegetable oil, helps them crisp up nicely without burning. For the best of both worlds, consider using a mix of butter and oil.

Chicken and Hash Brown Casserole - Ultimate Comfort Food

Name: The Ultimate Guide to Chicken and Hash Brown Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 cups cooked shredded chicken; 3 cups frozen hash browns (thawed); 1 cup sour cream; 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup chopped onions (optional); 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp onion powder; 1/2 tsp paprika; Salt and pepper to taste

Ingredients

Scale

3 cups cooked shredded chicken

3 cups frozen hash browns (thawed)

1 cup sour cream

1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

1/2 cup chopped onions (optional)

1/2 tsp garlic powder

1/2 tsp onion powder

1/2 tsp paprika

Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. In a large bowl, combine sour cream, cream of chicken soup, garlic powder, onion powder, and 1 cup of shredded cheese. Mix well.

3. Add in the shredded chicken and thawed hash browns. Mix until fully combined.

4. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and spread the mixture evenly into the pan.

5. Top with the remaining 1 cup of cheese and sprinkle paprika over the top.

6. Bake uncovered for 45-50 minutes or until golden and bubbly.

7. Broil for 3-5 minutes for extra crispiness on top.

8. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Notes

You can substitute rotisserie chicken for convenience.

Add diced jalapeños or green chiles for a spicy kick.

This dish freezes well. Bake and cool completely before freezing.

Author: Quinto
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Category: Casserole
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 420
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 780mg
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Unsaturated Fat: 12g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 24g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 23g
Cholesterol: 95mg