As I stood in the kitchen, the aroma of melted cheese and crispy hash browns transported me straight to a Southern family gathering. That’s when I decided it was time to whip up a Pimento Cheese Hash Brown Casserole—an easy recipe that’s the epitome of comfort food. This dish effortlessly combines creamy, zesty pimento cheese with golden, crunchy hash browns, making it a perfect companion for busy weeknight dinners or festive holiday feasts. One of the greatest perks? You can customize it to suit your taste with different cheeses or add-ins like crispy bacon. Plus, this crowd-pleaser brings a slice of Southern warmth to any table without hours in the kitchen. Want to know how to create this cheesy delight? Let’s dive in!
Why is this casserole so irresistible?
Comforting, creamy goodness: The Pimento Cheese Hash Brown Casserole is the ultimate comfort dish, perfectly blending the richness of pimento cheese with crispy hash browns.
Versatile flavors: You can easily customize it with various pimento cheese types, or add ingredients like bacon or peppers to suit your taste.
Time-saving simplicity: With minimal prep and only one dish to clean, this casserole is perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Crowd favorite: This cheesy delight will have your friends and family coming back for seconds, making it a guaranteed hit at any potluck or holiday feast.
Southern charm: Bringing together beloved Southern flavors, this recipe infuses your meal with warmth and hospitality, much like a traditional family gathering. Want a refreshing side to go with it? Pair it with a Cottage Cheese Chickpea Salad for a delightful contrast!
Pimento Cheese Hash Brown Casserole Ingredients
For the Casserole
• Frozen Shredded Hash Brown Potatoes – These are the base of your casserole, providing structure and texture straight from the freezer.
• Butter (Melted) – Adds richness and helps bind the casserole together; you can substitute it with olive oil for a lighter option.
• Jalapeno Pimento Cheese – The star ingredient, delivering creamy, zesty flavor; feel free to use regular pimento cheese for less heat.
• Sour Cream – Contributes creaminess and a tangy note; Greek yogurt works as a wonderful low-fat alternative.
• Chicken Broth – Keeps the casserole moist and enhances flavors; vegetable broth can replace it for a vegetarian version.
• Green Onion (Chopped) – Adds fresh color and flavor; you can swap it with chives for a milder profile.
• Salt – A key seasoning that elevates flavors; adjust according to your taste preferences and other ingredients.
• Coarse Ground Black Pepper – Provides a subtle heat, and using freshly ground pepper will significantly enhance flavor.
For the Topping
• Grated Sharp Cheddar Cheese (Optional) – Adds an indulgent layer on top; feel free to substitute with Monterey Jack or mozzarella for variety.
Each of these ingredients collaborates to create the ultimate Pimento Cheese Hash Brown Casserole, perfect for a cozy gathering or family dinner. Now, let’s get cooking!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pimento Cheese Hash Brown Casserole
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, grab a 9×13-inch casserole dish and generously spray it with non-stick cooking spray. This will ensure your Pimento Cheese Hash Brown Casserole comes out easily after baking and keeps clean-up simple and hassle-free.
Step 2: Prepare the Hash Browns
In a large mixing bowl, combine the frozen shredded hash brown potatoes with the melted butter. Stir them together until the potatoes are evenly coated with butter, bringing rich flavor and helping the casserole hold together beautifully. It should take no more than a couple of minutes to complete this step and create a well-mixed base.
Step 3: Mix the Remaining Ingredients
Next, add the jalapeno pimento cheese, sour cream, chicken broth, chopped green onion, salt, and coarse ground black pepper to the bowl. Stir everything together until evenly blended, creating a creamy, cheesy mixture that will envelop the hash browns. This is where the magic happens as all the flavors meld in delightful harmony.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Pour the entire mixture into your prepared casserole dish, spreading it out evenly for consistent baking. If you’re feeling indulgent, sprinkle the grated sharp cheddar cheese on top for an extra cheesy finish. This step adds a golden layer that will turn bubbly and irresistible while baking, making your Pimento Cheese Hash Brown Casserole even more tempting.
Step 5: Bake the Casserole
Place the casserole into your preheated oven and bake for 35 minutes. Watch for the edges to turn golden brown and bubbly; this is the perfect sign that your dish is ready. The aroma of melted cheese and crispy edges will fill your kitchen, bringing everyone to the dinner table.
Step 6: Let it Rest
Once the baking time is up, carefully remove the casserole from the oven. Allow it to sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This brief resting period helps the flavors meld beautifully and makes serving easier, ensuring you get perfect portions of the Pimento Cheese Hash Brown Casserole.
Pimento Cheese Hash Brown Casserole Variations
Feel free to personalize this delicious casserole with these delightful twists and substitutions!
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Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes for an extra burst of heat. This twist will elevate your dish into a flavor-packed delight.
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Creamy Swap: Replace sour cream with Greek yogurt for a tangy and healthier option. The same creamy consistency ensures that comfort remains intact while lightening up the dish!
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Herbaceous Flair: Stir in fresh herbs like dill or parsley to brighten up flavors. This new layer of freshness can transform your casserole into a garden-inspired creation.
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Vegetarian Version: Use vegetable broth in place of chicken broth to create a vegetarian-friendly version. Pair this with sautéed mushrooms for added depth.
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Cheesy Variety: Experiment with different cheeses, such as creamy Monterey Jack or tangy feta. Mixing in cheese styles can create a unique flavor profile that keeps every bite exciting.
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Crispy Toppings: Mix in some crumbled cooked bacon or crispy fried onions on top for added crunch. This sprinkle will not only provide texture but amplify that irresistible comfort factor.
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Sweet Addition: Consider adding a small amount of sautéed bell peppers or even a pinch of smoked paprika for a smoky-sweet twist. This subtle change can take your casserole to new heights.
In the spirit of delicious experimentation, why not pair your Pimento Cheese Hash Brown Casserole with a refreshing Cottage Cheese Chickpea Salad or a slice of warm Blueberry Cream Cheese for a delightful meal? Happy cooking!
Make Ahead Options
These Pimento Cheese Hash Brown Casseroles are a fantastic option for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the entire casserole up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the ingredients and transferring them into a greased casserole dish. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to bake, simply remove the wrap and place it in a preheated oven (350°F) for about 40-45 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown. Alternatively, if you’re looking to make it even further ahead, freeze the assembled casserole for up to 3 months. Defrost overnight in the refrigerator before baking for ultimate convenience, and rest assured that it will be just as delicious as when freshly prepared!
Expert Tips for Pimento Cheese Hash Brown Casserole
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Ingredient Temperature Matters: Always use frozen hash browns directly from the freezer. Using cold or slightly thawed potatoes may affect the mixing and baking process.
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Customize Wisely: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different types of pimento cheese or toppings. Adding extra ingredients, like diced jalapeños or crispy bacon, can elevate this comfort dish further.
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Bake Until Golden: Keep an eye on your casserole while it bakes; the edges should be golden brown and bubbly, indicating that the Pimento Cheese Hash Brown Casserole is perfectly cooked.
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Rest Before Serving: Allow the casserole to sit for about 5 minutes after baking. This resting time helps the flavors meld and makes it easier to serve.
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Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, they store well in the fridge for 2-3 days. You can also prepare the casserole ahead of time and freeze it for up to 3 months for a quick meal later on.
Storage Tips for Pimento Cheese Hash Brown Casserole
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Room Temperature: Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing at room temperature for no more than 2 hours to prevent bacteria growth.
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Fridge: Store leftover Pimento Cheese Hash Brown Casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
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Freezer: For long-term storage, wrap the casserole tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, defrost in the fridge overnight before baking at 350°F until heated through.
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Reheating: To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes, covering with aluminum foil to keep it moist. Enjoy the gooey, cheesy goodness!
What to Serve with Pimento Cheese Hash Brown Casserole
Imagine a bustling table filled with flavors that dance together, complementing each bite of cheesiness in this dish.
- Fresh Garden Salad: A bright mix of greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers adds a refreshing crunch that balances the richness of the casserole.
- Fried Chicken: The crispy, savory profile of golden fried chicken pairs stunningly with the creamy casserole, making for a comforting meal.
- Roasted Veggies: Tossed in olive oil and herbs, roasted vegetables bring an earthy sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the cheesy casserole.
- Sweet Cornbread: Slightly sweet and soft, a slice of cornbread enhances the dish’s Southern charm while offering a comforting texture.
- Barbecue Ribs: Smoky, tender ribs elevate the meal with their bold flavors, harmonizing marvelously with the casserole’s creamy goodness.
- Creamy Coleslaw: The crispness and tang of coleslaw cut through the richness, creating a delightful contrast that keeps each bite exciting.
- Sparkling Lemonade: A bubbly glass of refreshing lemonade adds a zesty brightness to the table, enhancing the warm, comforting flavors of the dish.
- Peach Cobbler: For dessert, this sweet, fruity treat connects the Southern theme, rounding out your meal with a touch of nostalgia and sweetness.
Pimento Cheese Hash Brown Casserole Recipe FAQs
What kind of pimento cheese should I use?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, use jalapeno pimento cheese to add a touch of spiciness, but if you’re looking for something milder, regular pimento cheese works great too. You can even customize it by trying different brands or homemade versions, depending on your taste preferences.
How do I store leftover casserole?
After enjoying your casserole, allow it to cool completely. Store leftover Pimento Cheese Hash Brown Casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through, ensuring that it stays creamy and delicious.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the Pimento Cheese Hash Brown Casserole for later enjoyment! Simply prepare the casserole as directed, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, defrost it in the fridge overnight before cooking at 350°F until bubbly, about 35-40 minutes.
What should I do if the edges burn while baking?
If you notice your casserole starting to burn at the edges, it’s a good idea to cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil for the remainder of the baking time. This will help prevent over-browning on the edges while allowing the center to cook through. Be sure to keep an eye on it towards the end!
Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
Certainly! To make the Pimento Cheese Hash Brown Casserole vegetarian-friendly, simply substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth. This small change maintains all the flavor while accommodating dietary preferences. Enjoy your comforting dish without any meat!
Is this recipe pet-friendly?
While the Pimento Cheese Hash Brown Casserole is scrumptious for us, it’s not suitable for pets due to ingredients like cheese and onion. Make sure to keep any leftovers safely out of reach from your furry friends to ensure they stick to their own, pet-friendly meals!
Pimento Cheese Hash Brown Casserole: Comfort Food Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and spray a 9x13-inch casserole dish with non-stick cooking spray.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the frozen shredded hash brown potatoes with the melted butter until evenly coated.
- Add the jalapeno pimento cheese, sour cream, chicken broth, chopped green onion, salt, and coarse ground black pepper to the bowl. Mix thoroughly.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared casserole dish and spread it out evenly. Optionally, sprinkle grated sharp cheddar cheese on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35 minutes until the edges are golden brown and bubbly.
- Allow the casserole to rest for about 5 minutes before serving.
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