O'Brian's Cheesy Potato Casserole 🥔🧀

This indulgent potato casserole is the ultimate comfort food that's perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or cozy family dinners. With layers of creamy goodness and a crunchy topping, it’s sure to satisfy everyone's cravings. It’s incredibly easy to whip up and can be prepped ahead of time, making it a great choice for busy weeknights!

Ingredients

For the casserole

• 1 (2-pound) package frozen hash brown potatoes, thawed
• 1/2 cup melted butter
• 1 (10.75-ounce) can condensed cream of chicken soup
• 12 ounces shredded cheese
• 1 (8-ounce) container sour cream
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 onion, chopped

For the topping

• 2 cups crushed cornflake cereal
• 1/2 cup melted butter

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.

2. Layer the Potatoes: Evenly spread the thawed hash browns in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.

3. Prepare the Creamy Mixture: In a bowl, combine the 1/2 cup melted butter, condensed soup, shredded cheese, sour cream, salt, and chopped onion. Mix until smooth.

   🍽️ Tip: Use a mix of cheeses for a flavor boost! Try combining different types like cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack for a bit of heat.

4. Assemble the Casserole: Pour the creamy mixture over the potatoes, spreading it evenly across the surface.

5. Add the Crunch: Sprinkle the crushed cornflakes on top and drizzle with the remaining 1/2 cup melted butter.

6. Bake to Perfection: Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.

   ⏳ Note: If you like a crispier topping, consider broiling it for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end—just keep a close eye on it to prevent burning!

Variations

• Vegetarian: Add broccoli, spinach, or bell peppers to the creamy mixture for a pop of color and added nutrition.
• Spicy: Stir in some diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce for an extra kick.
• Meaty: For a heartier dish, mix in cooked crumbled bacon or sausage before layering with hash browns.
• Make-Ahead: Prepare the casserole the night before and refrigerate it. Just bake it for an extra 15-20 minutes, adjusting the time as needed since it will be cold going into the oven.

Enjoy this dish warm, and watch it disappear! Perfect alongside a fresh green salad or your favorite protein for a complete meal. 🌿🍽️