Ultimate Creamy Hash Brown Casserole: The Best Cheesy Potato Comfort Food

Creamy hash brown casserole, often called “funeral potatoes” in some regions or simply “cheesy potato casserole,” is the quintessential comfort food side dish that steals the show at every gathering. This rich, golden-baked masterpiece features tender shredded hash brown potatoes enveloped in a velvety sauce of sour cream, cream of chicken soup, melted butter, and loads of sharp cheddar cheese. Topped with a crunchy cornflake or Ritz cracker topping and baked until bubbly and golden, it delivers the perfect contrast of creamy interior and crisp crown.

This casserole has earned legendary status at holiday dinners, potlucks, church suppers, brunch buffets, and family reunions for good reason. It’s incredibly forgiving, feeds a crowd, and appeals to even the pickiest eaters—kids love the cheesy goodness, while adults appreciate the nostalgic, homey flavors. The dish traces its roots to Midwestern and Southern American cuisine, where hearty, make-ahead casseroles became staples for feeding large groups. The nickname “funeral potatoes” comes from its frequent appearance at post-funeral luncheons in Utah and surrounding areas, but don’t let that deter you—this casserole is pure celebration on a plate.

What makes this version the “ultimate” is the perfect balance of creaminess, cheesiness, and texture. We use plenty of real cheddar (no skimping!), a touch of onion and garlic for depth, and an optional crunchy topping that takes it over the top. It’s easy enough for weeknight dinners yet impressive enough for Christmas, Easter, Thanksgiving, or any special occasion. Best of all, it can be assembled ahead of time, making holiday cooking stress-free.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover every detail you need to master creamy hash brown casserole—from choosing the right potatoes and cheese to step-by-step instructions, pro tips for perfect results, troubleshooting, make-ahead and freezing instructions, dietary adaptations, and creative variations. Whether you’re making it for the first time or looking to perfect your family recipe, this post will become your go-to resource.

Why This Creamy Hash Brown Casserole is Irresistible

• Ultra Creamy Texture: Sour cream and soup create a luxurious sauce that coats every potato strand.
• Loads of Cheese: Sharp cheddar melts beautifully and adds tangy flavor.
• Crunchy Topping Option: Buttery cornflakes or crackers provide the perfect textural contrast.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Universally loved, even by vegetable-avoiding kids.
• Make-Ahead Magic: Assemble up to 2 days ahead or freeze for months.
• Feeds a Crowd: Easily serves 10-12 as a side, perfect for holidays.
• Versatile: Pairs with ham, turkey, roast beef, grilled chicken, or breakfast sausage.
• Comfort Food Classic: Evokes warm memories of family gatherings.

Serves 10-12 as a side dish. Prep time: 15 minutes. Bake time: 45-60 minutes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

High-quality ingredients make all the difference. Here’s everything for the classic version:

Base Ingredients:

• 1 (30-32 oz) bag frozen shredded hash brown potatoes, thawed (or 2 lb fresh shredded potatoes)
• 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup (or cream of mushroom for vegetarian)
• 2 cups (16 oz) sour cream (full-fat for richest texture)
• 1/2 cup (1 stick or 113g) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 small yellow onion, finely diced (or 1 teaspoon onion powder)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional but recommended for depth)
• 2 cups (8 oz) sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded (divided)
• 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional, for color and subtle warmth)

For the Crunchy Topping (Highly Recommended):

• 2 cups crushed cornflakes (or Ritz crackers, potato chips, or panko)
• 1/4 cup (1/2 stick or 56g) unsalted butter, melted
• Optional: 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese mixed into topping

Optional Add-Ins for Extra Flavor:

• 1 cup diced ham or cooked bacon (turns it into a main dish)
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions or chives
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary
• Dash of hot sauce or cayenne for subtle heat

Pro tip: Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-shredded (which contains anti-caking agents).

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×13-inch baking dish (glass or ceramic)
• Large mixing bowl
• Cheese grater
• Aluminum foil
• Optional: food processor for crushing topping

Detailed Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

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

Thaw hash browns if frozen: Place in fridge overnight or microwave in short bursts, breaking up clumps.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics (Optional but Recommended)

In a small skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon butter. Add diced onion and cook 4-5 minutes until softened.

Add minced garlic and cook 30-60 seconds until fragrant. Set aside to cool slightly.

This step adds incredible depth—don’t skip it if you have time!

Step 3: Mix the Creamy Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and 1/2 cup melted butter.

Whisk until smooth and well incorporated.

Stir in sautéed onion/garlic (or onion powder), salt, pepper, and paprika.

Fold in 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese until evenly distributed.

Step 4: Add the Potatoes

Add thawed hash browns to the creamy mixture.

Gently fold everything together until potatoes are fully coated. Be careful not to mash them—keep some texture.

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed (potatoes can handle salt well).

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

Transfer the potato mixture to prepared baking dish.

Spread evenly with a spatula.

Sprinkle remaining 1/2 cup cheddar cheese over the top.

Step 6: Prepare and Add Crunchy Topping

In a medium bowl, combine crushed cornflakes (or alternative) with 1/4 cup melted butter.

Toss until evenly coated.

Sprinkle topping evenly over the cheese layer.

For extra flavor, mix in Parmesan.

Step 7: Bake to Golden Perfection

Cover loosely with foil and bake for 30 minutes.

Remove foil and bake another 15-30 minutes until topping is golden brown, edges are bubbly, and center is hot (165°F internal temp).

For deeper browning, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end (watch carefully!).

Let rest 10-15 minutes before serving—this helps it set for cleaner slices.

Serve warm with a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired.

Pro Tips for the Best Creamy Hash Brown Casserole

• Thaw Properly: Excess moisture makes it watery—pat dry if needed.
• Fresh Cheese: Always shred your own for superior melting.
• Don’t Overmix: Gentle folding preserves fluffy texture.
• Topping Variations: Cornflakes for classic crunch, Ritz for buttery richness, panko for lightness.
• Make it Extra Cheesy: Add cheese in layers or mix in different varieties (Colby Jack, pepper jack).
• Prevent Soggy Bottom: Bake on middle rack; use glass dish for even heating.
• Double the Recipe: Use two pans or a large roasting pan for bigger crowds.
• Breakfast Version: Add cooked sausage, bacon, and serve with eggs.

Common Problems and Solutions

• Too Watery: Thaw and drain potatoes well; use full-fat sour cream.
• Not Creamy Enough: Ensure butter and soup are well incorporated.
• Topping Burns: Cover with foil first half of baking.
• Too Salty: Use low-sodium soup and taste before adding salt.
• Cheese Doesn’t Melt: Use room-temperature ingredients and fresh cheese.
• Dry Casserole: Don’t overbake; cover if reheating.

Make-Ahead, Storage, and Freezing Instructions

This casserole shines as a make-ahead dish.

• Make-Ahead: Assemble completely (including topping) up to 2 days ahead. Cover tightly and refrigerate. Add 10-15 minutes to bake time.
• Freezer-Friendly: Assemble (without baking), cover tightly with plastic wrap then foil. Freeze up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in fridge before baking (add 15-20 minutes).
• Baked Leftovers: Store covered in fridge up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Cover with foil and bake at 350°F for 20-30 minutes until hot. Microwave individual portions with a damp paper towel.
• Freezing Baked Casserole: Portion into airtight containers up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen or thawed.

Dietary Adaptations and Variations

• Vegetarian: Use cream of mushroom or celery soup.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free soup and cornflakes/crackers.
• Lighter Version: Reduced-fat sour cream, less butter, half the cheese (still delicious!).
• Loaded Baked Potato Style: Top with bacon, chives, extra sour cream.
• Southwestern Twist: Add green chiles, pepper jack, cumin, and top with tortilla chips.
• Broccoli Cheddar: Fold in steamed broccoli florets.
• Ham and Cheese: Add 2 cups diced ham for a complete meal.
• No Soup Version: Make homemade sauce with milk, flour, butter, and cheese.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole pairs beautifully with:

• Holiday ham or turkey
• Roast beef or prime rib
• Grilled or fried chicken
• Breakfast meats (sausage, bacon)
• Fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for balance
• Cranberry sauce during holidays

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)

Based on 12 servings:

• Calories: 350-400
• Fat: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Protein: 9g
• Fiber: 2g

Values vary with modifications.

Why This Casserole Belongs on Every Holiday Table

Creamy hash brown casserole isn’t just food—it’s tradition, comfort, and love baked into one dish. Its universal appeal brings people together, fills bellies and hearts, and creates memories that last. Easy to make, impossible to resist, and always met with empty pans and requests for seconds, this recipe deserves a permanent spot in your collection.

There you have it—the definitive guide to making the ultimate creamy hash brown casserole that will earn rave reviews every single time. Happy baking!