Chad's Hashbrown Casserole

8 servings Prep: 15 m Cook: 50 m Total: 1 h 5 m Beginner
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Chad's Hashbrown Casserole
The classic breakfast favorite hashbrown comes together with this unique dish combining Colby cheese, cream of chicken soup, and tender hash browns baked until golden and bubbly. Perfect for Sunday morning at Ma-Mom’s house or any family brunch!

Ingredients

8 servings
  • 2 lbs frozen hash brown potatoes, thawed
  • 1 (10.75oz) can Campbell's condensed cream of chicken soup
  • 1/2 medium yellow onion, diced or chopped fine
  • 1/4 cup margarine, melted
  • 2 cups (8 oz) colby cheese, shredded or diced fine
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
  2. Combine the cream of chicken soup, diced onion, melted margarine, colby cheese, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl and mix well.
  3. Once combined, add in the thawed hash brown potatoes and mix until everything is evenly coated.
  4. Put into a greased 9"x13" glass casserole dish and spread evenly.
  5. Bake in the preheated 350°F oven for 45-50 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
  6. Let sit for 30 minutes to cool and thicken before serving.

Common Problems and Solutions

Q: Why is my casserole watery?

A: Make sure the frozen hash browns are fully thawed and drained of excess moisture before mixing. Letting the casserole rest for the full 30 minutes after baking allows it to set up and thicken properly.

Q: Can I prepare this ahead of time?

A: Yes! Assemble the casserole the night before, cover with foil, and refrigerate. Add 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking directly from the refrigerator.

Tips and Techniques

For extra flavor, top with an additional 1/2 cup of shredded cheese during the last 10 minutes of baking. You can also mix in cooked, crumbled bacon or diced ham to make it heartier.

Ingredient Substitutions

  • colby cheese: cheddar cheese or Monterey Jack
  • cream of chicken soup: cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup
  • margarine: butter

Equipment Needed

  • 9"x13" glass casserole dish
  • Large mixing bowl

Historical Context

Hash brown casseroles became popular in the American South in the 1970s and 80s as an easy way to feed large families and church gatherings. Using frozen hash browns made it accessible year-round.