A Cheesy Hash Brown Casserole with Buttery Corn Flake Crust

*******************************************
Shop now at CookPrayandEat.com/shop!
*******************************************

Calling all hash brown lovers! This recipe celebrates the crispy, golden wonder in all its glory. We're building a casserole masterpiece of perfectly cooked shredded hash browns, a cheesy and flavorful sauce, and a corn flake crumble. Serve as a side dish or add bacon, sausage or ham to create the ultimate hash brown casserole!

The Star of the Show: The Mighty Shredded Hash Brown

This dish is an ode to the humble frozen shredded hash browns. Their ease of use and affordability make this a perfect dish that doesn't compromise on flavor.

The Secret Weapon: The Unexpected Corn Flake Topping

Don't underestimate the power of the breakfast cereal aisle! Crushed corn flakes add a delightful crunch and a hint of sweetness that balances the savory elements of the casserole. Plus, they brown beautifully in the oven, creating an irresistibly crispy topping.

Endless Variations: Make it Your Own!

This recipe is a blank canvas for your creativity. Here are some ways to customize your hash brown casserole:

Diced vegetables: Sauté chopped peppers or broccoli with the hash browns for added flavor and color.
Spicy kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a chopped jalapeno for a touch of heat.
Different cheeses: Experiment with cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend for a different flavor profile.
Add some meat: Stir in cooked sausage, diced ham or crumbled bacon for a more substantial meal.

Ready to Ascend to Hash Brown Casserole Nirvana?

Here's what you'll need:

Ingredients:
2 (16 oz) packages frozen shredded hash browns, thawed
1 can (10.75 oz) cream of mushroom soup
16 oz sour cream
8 oz shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup chopped onion
3/4 stick melted butter for potato mixture
1/2 stick of melted butter for topping
3 cups crushed corn flakes

Instructions:
Preheat oven to 375°F.
Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
In a mixing bowl, mix together mushroom soup, sour cream and melted butter.
Add to the shredded hash browns and onions and mix well.
Spoon evenly into the 9 x 13 dish.
Sprinkle crushed corn flakes on top and then drizzle melted butter on top.
Bake in the oven for 40 minutes.
Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips:

For a richer flavor, use leftover cooked diced ham or crumbled cooked sausage in the casserole.

Leftover hash brown casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

This casserole is a celebration of everything good about hash browns. It's crispy, creamy, cheesy, and surprisingly light thanks to the corn flake topping. Get ready to experience the true potential of the shredded hash brown and elevate it to a casserole worthy of a weeknight feast!