Name: Pimento Cheese Hash Brown Casserole for Ultimate Comfort
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 30 ounces frozen shredded hash brown potatoes (Use directly from the freezer); 1/2 cup butter (melted) (Can substitute with olive oil); 1.5 to 2 cups jalapeno pimento cheese (Adjust quantity for desired cheesiness); 1 cup sour cream (Greek yogurt can be a healthier alternative); 1 cup chicken broth (Vegetable broth works for vegetarian option); 3 ounces green onion (chopped) (Substitute with chives if preferred); to taste salt & coarse ground black pepper (Adjust based on your taste); optional grated sharp cheddar cheese (For additional cheesiness)

As I watched the golden cheese melt into the bubbling hash browns in my oven, I couldn’t help but smile at the familiar scent wafting through my kitchen. This Pimento Cheese Hash Brown Casserole has become my go-to comfort food, effortlessly blending creamy pimento cheese with crispy, buttery hash browns. With minimal prep time, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or festive potluck gatherings, ensuring you’ll become a kitchen hero in no time. Plus, this dish is a crowd-pleaser, satisfying both traditionalists and adventurous eaters alike. Whether you’re whipping it up for a cozy family dinner or showcasing it at a holiday feast, get ready to indulge in that delightful Southern charm. Curious about how to make your own batch of cheesy goodness? Let’s dive into this easy recipe!

Why is this casserole a must-try?

Creamy, Cheesy Goodness: The luscious blend of pimento cheese and hash browns creates a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist.
Easy to Prepare: With quick mixing and minimal prep time, this dish comes together effortlessly, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights.
Versatile Topping Options: Customize with your favorite toppings like crispy bacon or pepper jack cheese for a personalized twist.
Crowd-Pleasing Charm: This casserole is bound to impress at potlucks and family gatherings, winning over both picky eaters and adventurous palates.
Comfort Food Staple: Infused with Southern hospitality, it embodies the essence of comfort food that warms the heart and fills the stomach. Enjoy it alongside succulent fried chicken or even as a standout brunch centerpiece!

Pimento Cheese Hash Brown Casserole Ingredients

Here’s everything you need to create this delightful comfort food!

For the Casserole

Frozen Shredded Hash Brown Potatoes – Use directly from the freezer for a hearty base with perfect texture.
Butter (melted) – This adds a rich, buttery flavor; you can swap it for olive oil if you’re looking for a lighter version.
Jalapeno Pimento Cheese – For that tangy, creamy taste; feel free to adjust the quantity according to your cheesiness preference, or opt for plain pimento cheese for less spice.
Sour Cream – This contributes to the creaminess and tanginess; Greek yogurt can serve as a healthier alternative.
Chicken Broth – It adds moisture and depth to the dish; vegetable broth works beautifully for a vegetarian option.
Green Onion (chopped) – This brings a fresh and mild onion flavor; chives make a great substitute if you prefer.
Salt & Coarse Ground Black Pepper – Essential for enhancing flavors; adjust these seasonings based on your taste.
Grated Sharp Cheddar Cheese (optional) – A delightful topping that adds even more cheesiness; feel free to use your favorite cheese to customize.

Enjoy cooking your Pimento Cheese Hash Brown Casserole, and get ready for compliments around the table!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pimento Cheese Hash Brown Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, take a 9×13 inch casserole dish and generously spray it with non-stick cooking spray to ensure your Pimento Cheese Hash Brown Casserole releases easily once baked.

Step 2: Mix Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine 30 ounces of frozen shredded hash brown potatoes with 1/2 cup of melted butter, 1.5 to 2 cups of jalapeno pimento cheese, 1 cup of sour cream, and 1 cup of chicken broth. Toss in chopped green onions, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir the mixture well until all the ingredients are incorporated and evenly coated in that creamy goodness.

Step 3: Transfer to Casserole Dish
Carefully pour the well-mixed hash brown and pimento cheese mixture into your pre-prepared 9×13 casserole dish. Spread it out evenly to create a smooth layer. If you’re feeling cheesy, sprinkle a generous layer of grated sharp cheddar cheese on top for an extra melty goodness that will add to the overall flavor and appeal of the casserole.

Step 4: Bake
Slide the casserole into your preheated oven and bake for approximately 35 minutes. Keep an eye out for those edges to bubble and begin turning golden brown, which is a sure sign that your Pimento Cheese Hash Brown Casserole is coming together beautifully.

Step 5: Cool Before Serving
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes, allowing the cheese to set slightly. This little pause is essential for helping those delightful layers hold together when you serve this comforting dish to friends and family.

How to Store and Freeze Pimento Cheese Hash Brown Casserole

Fridge: Keep leftover Pimento Cheese Hash Brown Casserole in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the casserole tightly wrapped for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking, then cook according to the original instructions.

Reheating: When reheating individual portions, microwave for 1-2 minutes or until hot. For best results, use the oven to maintain that perfect cheesy texture.

Meal Prep: This casserole can be prepared ahead of time and stored uncooked in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.

Make Ahead Options

Make your busy weeknights smoother by preparing the Pimento Cheese Hash Brown Casserole in advance! You can mix all the ingredients (hash browns, melted butter, pimento cheese, sour cream, chicken broth, green onions, salt, and pepper) and assemble the casserole up to 24 hours ahead. Simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. For best quality, avoid adding the grated cheddar cheese until just before cooking to ensure it stays fresh and melts perfectly. When you’re ready to indulge, take it from the fridge, sprinkle on the cheddar, and bake as instructed—enjoy this comforting dish with minimal effort!

What to Serve with Pimento Cheese Hash Brown Casserole

Elevate your meal experience by pairing this comforting casserole with delightful sides and beverages that enhance its creamy, cheesy charm.

Fried Chicken: Crispy, salty fried chicken complements the casserole’s creamy texture, creating a classic Southern duo that’s hard to resist.
Fresh Garden Salad: A light, crisp salad with tangy vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the casserole, providing balance on your plate.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The slightly smoky, caramelized flavors of roasted Brussels sprouts introduce a wonderful depth and earthiness that pairs beautifully with the cheesy goodness.
Sweet Cornbread: Soft, sweet cornbread adds a touch of sweetness and a comforting texture that rounds out the meal perfectly. It’s an ideal companion for scooping up casserole remnants!
Coleslaw: This crunchy and tangy dish lightens the meal while adding a refreshing crunch, balancing the creaminess of the casserole and providing a satisfying bite.
Peach Iced Tea: A glass of sweet peach iced tea offers a delightful refreshment, harmonizing with the Southern essence of the casserole while enhancing its flavors.
Chocolate Chip Cookies: Indulge your sweet tooth with warm, gooey chocolate chip cookies for dessert—a perfect sweet finale to your comforting meal.
Grilled Sausages: Juicy grilled sausages provide a hearty addition that pairs well with the casserole’s creamy texture, creating a satisfying and filling plate.

Expert Tips for Pimento Cheese Hash Brown Casserole

Keep Hash Browns Frozen: Ensure your hash browns remain frozen until mixing; this helps maintain the ideal texture for your casserole.
Layer of Cheese: For a richer flavor, don’t skip the optional layer of cheddar cheese on top; it creates a deliciously gooey crust.
Cooling Time: Letting the casserole cool for a few minutes after baking helps it set, making serving easier and more appealing.
Prep Ahead: Prepare the casserole a day in advance; it can be refrigerated overnight and baked fresh before serving.
Adjust Spice Levels: If spice isn’t your thing, use plain pimento cheese instead of jalapeno; it’ll still be creamy and delicious.

Pimento Cheese Hash Brown Casserole Variations

Feel free to unleash your creativity and customize this casserole to best suit your taste buds!

Meat Lovers: Add cooked crumbled bacon or breakfast sausage for extra flavor and heartiness. Mixing in savory meats transforms this dish into a fulfilling meal perfect for breakfast or brunch.
Cheese Swap: Use pepper jack cheese for a delightful kick of spice. This cheesy variation can elevate the flavor profile and add a fun, zesty twist to your casserole.
Creamy Alternative: Replace sour cream with Greek yogurt for a healthier, protein-packed version. This swap not only maintains creaminess but adds a touch of tanginess that complements the flavors beautifully.
Vegetarian Delight: Opt for vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to create a vegetarian-friendly casserole. This simple substitution makes it a welcoming dish for all dietary preferences.
Extra Veggies: Incorporate sautéed bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition and color. This addition brings a fresh vegetarian element that catches the eye and enhances flavors.
Bite-Sized Treats: Transform your casserole into bite-sized portions by using muffin tins for individual servings. These mini casseroles are perfect for gatherings or meal prep, making them easy to serve and enjoy.
Comfy Sweetness: Roast sweet potatoes or butternut squash and mix them into the hash brown base for a sweet twist. The natural sweetness pairs wonderfully with the savory pimento cheese.
On the Heat: For spice aficionados, toss in diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes to crank up the heat factor. It adds a dynamic kick that complements the creamy texture perfectly.

Both the traditional charm of this casserole and these delightful variations guarantee you’ll always have a satisfying dish to share during holidays, potlucks, or cozy dinners at home. If you’re looking for inspiration for your next meal, check out the Cheesy Hash Brown or a delectable Cheesy Broccoli Casserole that can easily become part of your recipe rotation!

Pimento Cheese Hash Brown Casserole Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best frozen hash browns?
Absolutely! Look for frozen shredded hash brown potatoes that are free of dark spots and ice crystals, as these indicate freezer burn. You want them to be uniform in size for even cooking. Brands with minimal added ingredients, like salt or preservatives, are ideal to let the pimento cheese flavor shine through.

What is the best way to store leftovers?
Very good question! To store leftover Pimento Cheese Hash Brown Casserole, simply place it in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Just reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, which helps maintain that delicious cheesy texture.

Can I freeze Pimento Cheese Hash Brown Casserole?
Absolutely! This dish can be frozen for up to 3 months. To do this, allow the casserole to cool completely and then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and bake as per your original instructions.

What should I do if the casserole is too dry after baking?
If you find your casserole is a bit dry, no worries! You can stir in additional chicken broth or sour cream before baking next time for creaminess. Also, keep an eye on the baking time; it can vary based on ovens so check it after 30 minutes and cover with foil if it browns too quickly.

Is this dish suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
Of course! For a vegetarian version, simply substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth, and opt for vegetarian pimento cheese options if available. Additionally, if you have anyone with dairy allergies, try using nut-based cheeses and plant-based sour cream or yogurt alternatives.

How do I customize the spice level in this dish?
The more the merrier! If you prefer a milder taste, you can use regular pimento cheese instead of jalapeno. Alternatively, you can add finely chopped bell peppers or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to adjust the spice level to your liking!