Description of this recipe
This Pimento Cheese Hash Brown Casserole is a delightful twist on classic comfort food. Combining the creamy, tangy goodness of pimento cheese with the satisfying texture of hash browns, this casserole is perfect for brunch, potlucks, or a cozy family dinner. It’s easy to make, incredibly flavorful, and sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Imagine golden-brown hash browns mingling with a rich, cheesy sauce, punctuated by the subtle sweetness of pimentos. This dish is Southern comfort at its finest, elevated to a new level of deliciousness.
Why you will love this recipe
There are countless reasons to fall in love with this Pimento Cheese Hash Brown Casserole. First and foremost, it’s unbelievably easy to prepare, requiring minimal effort and readily available ingredients. This makes it a go-to option for busy weeknights or when you need a dish to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of textures and flavors is another major draw – the crispy hash browns, the smooth and creamy cheese sauce, and the tangy pimentos create a symphony of sensations in every bite.
Moreover, this casserole is incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it to suit your preferences by adding different types of cheese, vegetables, or even cooked meats. It’s also a fantastic way to use up leftover ingredients, reducing food waste and adding a personal touch to the recipe. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this Pimento Cheese Hash Brown Casserole is guaranteed to become a staple in your recipe collection. Its comforting nature and crowd-pleasing flavor make it a winner every time. The warmth and richness of the dish are reminiscent of home-cooked meals and family gatherings, bringing a sense of nostalgia and contentment to the table.
Ingredients:
- 1 (30 oz / 850 g) bag frozen shredded hash browns, thawed
- 2 cups (200 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup (250 g) prepared pimento cheese
- 1 (10.5 oz / 298 g) can cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup (240 ml) sour cream
- ½ cup (120 ml) mayonnaise
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup (60 g) crushed buttery crackers or cornflakes (optional topping)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (optional topping)
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating, grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. This will prevent the casserole from sticking and ensure easy removal after baking. Use butter, cooking spray, or even a light coating of oil to grease the dish thoroughly. Making sure the dish is well-greased is key to a perfect casserole.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed hash browns, diced onion, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Ensure the hash browns are fully thawed to prevent a watery casserole. Mix these ingredients thoroughly, ensuring the spices are evenly distributed throughout the hash browns. The diced onion adds a subtle sharpness that complements the richness of the cheese, while the spices provide a warm, savory base.
Step 3: Add the sour cream, mayonnaise, cream of chicken soup, shredded cheddar cheese, and pimento cheese to the bowl. Mix all ingredients until they are fully combined. This step is crucial for creating a creamy, cohesive sauce that binds the hash browns together. Make sure there are no lumps of cream cheese or sour cream, and that the cheddar cheese is evenly distributed.
Step 4: Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. If you’re using a topping, mix the crushed crackers or cornflakes with the melted butter in a separate bowl. Sprinkle the cracker or cornflake mixture evenly over the top of the casserole. This topping adds a delightful crunch and a touch of buttery flavor that enhances the overall dish.
Step 5: Bake uncovered for 40–50 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbling around the edges and the topping is lightly golden brown. The baking time may vary depending on your oven, so keep an eye on it. To ensure the casserole is fully heated through, insert a knife into the center – it should come out hot. Once it’s done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This allows the casserole to set slightly, making it easier to slice and serve.
COOKING Rating:
Easy
Serving Suggestions:
This Pimento Cheese Hash Brown Casserole pairs well with a variety of dishes. Serve it alongside a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal, or pair it with grilled chicken or ham for a heartier option. It’s also a great addition to a brunch spread, complementing other breakfast favorites like eggs, bacon, and pancakes. For a Southern-inspired feast, serve it with collard greens and cornbread. The possibilities are endless!
Tips:
- To prevent the hash browns from becoming too watery, make sure they are fully thawed and squeeze out any excess moisture before adding them to the bowl.
- For a richer flavor, use freshly grated cheddar cheese instead of pre-shredded.
- If you don’t have cream of chicken soup on hand, you can substitute it with cream of mushroom soup or cream of celery soup.
- To add a bit of spice, include a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture.
- For a vegetarian option, use cream of mushroom soup and omit any meat additions.
- If you prefer a smoother casserole, you can pulse the hash browns in a food processor before adding them to the other ingredients.
- To prevent the topping from burning, you can cover the casserole with aluminum foil during the last 15 minutes of baking.
- For a make-ahead option, prepare the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Add the topping just before baking.
Prep Time:
20 minutes
Cook Time:
40-50 minutes
Total Time:
60-70 minutes
Nutritional Information:
(Note: Nutritional information is approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)
Calories:
Approximately 350-450 per serving
Protein:
Approximately 15-20g per serving
Sodium:
Approximately 500-700mg per serving
Conclusion
The Comforting Pimento Cheese Hash Brown Casserole is a recipe that embodies the essence of home-style cooking. It’s a dish that is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly satisfying to eat. The combination of creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors, coupled with the comforting texture of hash browns, makes it a winner for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering, a potluck, or simply enjoying it as a cozy weeknight meal, this casserole is sure to bring smiles to the faces of everyone who tries it.
This recipe is more than just a collection of ingredients and instructions; it’s an invitation to create memories and share moments of joy with loved ones. The versatility of the dish allows you to adapt it to your own preferences, adding your personal touch and making it uniquely yours. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and embark on a culinary adventure that will leave you and your guests feeling warm, satisfied, and utterly delighted. The Comforting Pimento Cheese Hash Brown Casserole is a testament to the fact that simple ingredients, when combined with love and care, can create something truly extraordinary. Enjoy the process of cooking, savor the flavors, and relish the moments shared around the table.
Questions and Answers:
Q1: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! This casserole is a great make-ahead dish. You can prepare it a day in advance, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake it, simply remove it from the refrigerator, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes, and then bake as directed. I recommend adding the topping just before baking to prevent it from getting soggy. This makes it a convenient option for busy schedules or when you’re hosting a large gathering. The flavors actually meld together even more when it’s made ahead, resulting in an even more delicious casserole!
Q2: What can I substitute for the cream of chicken soup?
A: If you don’t have cream of chicken soup on hand or prefer a vegetarian option, you can easily substitute it with cream of mushroom soup or cream of celery soup. These alternatives will provide a similar creamy texture and savory flavor to the casserole. You can also make a homemade version by creating a roux with butter and flour, then whisking in chicken or vegetable broth and seasoning it with salt, pepper, and herbs. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning to your liking to ensure the casserole has the right balance of flavors.
Q3: Can I add meat to this casserole?
A: Yes, you can definitely add meat to this casserole! Cooked and crumbled bacon, sausage, or ham would be excellent additions. I recommend adding about 1 cup of cooked meat to the hash brown mixture before spreading it in the baking dish. You can also use shredded cooked chicken or turkey for a leaner option. Adding meat will make the casserole even more hearty and filling, perfect for a main course. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time if necessary to ensure the meat is heated through.
Q4: How do I prevent the hash browns from getting soggy?
A: To prevent the hash browns from becoming soggy, it’s important to make sure they are fully thawed before adding them to the mixture. Once thawed, squeeze out any excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. This will help remove any excess water that could make the casserole soggy. Additionally, avoid overmixing the ingredients, as this can also contribute to a soggy texture. Using a higher oven temperature and baking the casserole uncovered will also help to crisp up the hash browns.
Q5: Can I use different types of cheese?
A: Absolutely! While the recipe calls for sharp cheddar cheese, you can certainly experiment with other types of cheese to customize the flavor to your liking. Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack cheese would all be delicious options. You can also use a combination of different cheeses for a more complex flavor profile. Just be sure to use cheeses that melt well and complement the other ingredients in the casserole. For a sharper flavor, try using extra sharp cheddar cheese or a blend of cheddar and Parmesan cheese.
