If you are looking for that warm, comforting dish that feels like a big, cheesy hug, then you have to try this Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole with Crunchy Cornflake Topping Recipe. This casserole blends creamy, cheesy goodness with crispy, golden hashbrowns and wraps it all up with an irresistibly crunchy cornflake topping. Every forkful serves up a delightful combination of textures and flavors that make this dish an instant favorite for family dinners and potluck gatherings alike.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows four bowls on a white marbled surface. The biggest white bowl at the bottom right is filled with a large amount of shredded white cheese with a soft texture. To the left of it, there is a smaller white bowl containing a creamy white sauce with a smooth texture. Above that bowl, there is another white bowl filled with shredded pale orange and light yellow cheese, with a thin and stringy texture. At the top right, there is an open can showing a thick, light yellow creamy substance inside. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The secret to this Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole with Crunchy Cornflake Topping Recipe is using simple, accessible ingredients that come together beautifully. Each one is essential in creating the perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, hearty, and crispy, resulting in a crowd-pleasing dish that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.

Cream of chicken soup: This adds rich creaminess and depth, binding the casserole together.
Shredded cheddar cheese: Provides that classic cheesy flavor and melty texture that everyone loves.
Sour cream: Brings a subtle tang and extra moisture to keep everything luscious.
Shredded hash browns: The hearty base that soaks up all the delicious flavors.
Corn flakes: Slightly crushed for a perfectly crunchy topping that contrasts with the creamy filling.
Butter: Melted and mixed with cornflakes to elevate the crispiness and add buttery richness.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole with Crunchy Cornflake Topping Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Dish

Begin by preheating your oven to 350° F—this ensures a steady baking temperature for even cooking. Lightly spray an 11 x 7-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Mix the Creamy Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir these together until everything is well blended, creating a luscious, cheesy base that will envelop the hash browns perfectly.

Step 3: Add the Hashbrowns

Fold in the shredded hash browns gently but thoroughly. This step is key because the potatoes soak up the creamy mixture, giving every bite a flavorful, tender texture.

Step 4: Spread Into Baking Dish

Transfer the mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. This makes sure the casserole cooks uniformly and the textures meld together beautifully.

Step 5: Prepare and Add the Crunchy Cornflake Topping

In a small bowl, mix the slightly crushed cornflakes with melted butter until they are thoroughly coated. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the hashbrown casserole. This topping is what makes this dish extra special, delivering that satisfyingly crisp crunch in every bite.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden and Tender

Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for about one hour or until the hash browns are tender and the topping turns a lovely golden brown. This is when the magic happens—creamy meets crispy in the most delicious way.

How to Serve Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole with Crunchy Cornflake Topping Recipe

A rectangular white baking dish filled with a baked pasta casserole that has a golden brown, slightly crispy cheese layer on top, with some darker browned spots and visible melted shredded cheese strands evenly covering the surface. The dish is placed on a white cloth with thin gray stripes, against a white marbled surface. The casserole appears thick with a smooth, cheesy top layer, evenly cooked with a warm, inviting color. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of chopped fresh chives or parsley adds a fresh color pop and a subtle oniony brightness that cuts through the richness. For extra flavor, a dash of smoked paprika or a few dashes of hot sauce on the side can bring a warming kick that makes the dish uniquely yours.

Side Dishes

This casserole pairs wonderfully with green veggies like roasted broccoli, sautéed green beans, or a crisp garden salad to balance out the indulgence. For a heartier meal, serve with grilled chicken or baked ham, creating a comforting, crowd-pleasing dinner.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the casserole in individual ramekins for a charming presentation at brunch or smaller gatherings. You can also layer it with bits of cooked bacon or diced jalapeños inside before baking for extra flair and flavor explosions.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, cover the casserole tightly with plastic wrap or transfer into an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, leftovers will stay fresh for 3 to 4 days, making for easy meal planning during busy weeks.

Freezing

This Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole with Crunchy Cornflake Topping Recipe freezes beautifully. Wrap it well to prevent freezer burn, and it will keep for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best texture and flavor.

Reheating

Reheat your leftover casserole in the oven at 350° F for about 20-25 minutes until heated through and the topping regains its crunch. If using a microwave, cover loosely and heat on medium, but the oven method preserves the delightful crispiness best.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese in this casserole?

Absolutely! While cheddar cheese is classic, feel free to experiment with Monterey Jack, Colby, or even a mix of cheeses to suit your taste. Each variety will bring a unique melt and flavor to the casserole.

Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

Yes! Simply substitute the cream of chicken soup with a cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup, and ensure the other ingredients are vegetarian-friendly. This swap keeps the dish just as creamy and delicious.

Can I make this casserole dairy-free?

It’s possible by using dairy-free sour cream, cheese alternatives, and a suitable creamy soup substitute. The textures will be slightly different but still tasty and satisfying.

How crushed should the cornflakes be for the topping?

Lightly crushing the cornflakes works best—you want some texture and crunch but not a powder. Crushing them too finely can make the topping less crispy and more like a crumb.

Can I add vegetables to the casserole?

Definitely! Chopped green onions, diced bell peppers, or even steamed broccoli can be stirred into the mixture before baking for a veggie boost and extra color.

Final Thoughts

This Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole with Crunchy Cornflake Topping Recipe is one of those timeless dishes that effortlessly combines simplicity with irresistible comfort. It’s perfect for making ahead, sharing with loved ones, and savoring warm from the oven. I can’t wait for you to give it a try and experience the perfect blend of creamy, cheesy, and crunchy all in one bite.

Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole with Crunchy Cornflake Topping Recipe

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This comforting Hashbrown Casserole combines creamy chicken soup, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, and crispy hash browns topped with buttery crushed corn flakes. Baked to golden perfection, it’s a hearty and easy side dish that pairs perfectly with breakfast or dinner meals.

Author: Paula
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 8 servings
Category: Casserole
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

10 3/4 ounces cream of chicken soup (1 can)
8 ounces shredded cheddar cheese (2 cups loosely shredded)
3/4 cup sour cream
20 ounces shredded hash browns

Topping

1 1/2 cups corn flakes (slightly crushed)
1/4 cup butter (melted)

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350° F and generously spray an 11 x 7 inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Mix the Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir well until the mixture is smooth and fully incorporated.
Add Hashbrowns: Add the shredded hash browns to the mixture and stir until the hash browns are evenly coated with the creamy cheese and soup blend.
Transfer to Baking Dish: Spread the hash brown mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, ensuring a level surface for even baking.
Prepare Optional Topping: In a small bowl, combine the slightly crushed corn flakes with the melted butter, mixing thoroughly until the flakes are well coated.
Add Topping: Sprinkle the cornflake and butter mixture evenly over the top of the hash brown casserole for a crispy golden finish.
Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for one hour, or until the hash browns are tender and the topping is golden brown and crunchy.

Notes

For a vegetarian option, substitute cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup.
You can prepare this casserole a day ahead; cover and refrigerate before baking to save time.
For extra flavor, add chopped onions or green peppers to the mixture before baking.
Make sure to crush the corn flakes gently to keep some texture in the topping.
Let the casserole stand for 5-10 minutes after baking for easier serving.

Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole with Crunchy Cornflake Topping Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need