Pimento Cheese Hash Brown Casserole

Give your regular hash brown casserole a mouthwatering southern makeover with this gloriously dreamy Pimento Cheese Hash Brown Casserole! Perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, and holiday feasts, this dish stands out with its creamy texture and zesty flavor. The combination of jalapeno pimento cheese and crispy hash browns creates a delightful balance that will leave everyone wanting more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of jalapeno pimento cheese and sour cream creates a creamy, cheesy delight packed with flavor.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal prep time, you can whip up this dish in no time.
• Versatile Side Dish: This casserole pairs beautifully with any main course, making it an ideal choice for any occasion.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, this recipe serves 8 to 10 people, ensuring there’s plenty to go around.
• Comfort Food Classic: This dish embodies the essence of comfort food, bringing warmth and satisfaction to your table.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, gather the essential tools before you start. Utilizing the right equipment will enhance your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• 9×13 casserole dish
• Non-stick cooking spray
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space for combining ingredients without spills.
• 9×13 casserole dish: The perfect size for baking and serving your Pimento Cheese Hash Brown Casserole.
• Non-stick cooking spray: Prevents sticking, ensuring easy removal of your casserole from the dish.

Ingredients

For the Casserole

• 20 ounces frozen shredded hash brown potatoes
• 2 tablespoons butter (melted)
• 1.5 – 2 cups jalapeno pimento cheese (or the entire yield of the linked recipe)
• 8 ounces sour cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 3-4 green onion (chopped)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon coarse ground black pepper
• 1/2 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese (optional topping)

How to Make Pimento Cheese Hash Brown Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350° Fahrenheit. This step is crucial for even baking.

Step 2: Prepare the Casserole Dish

Spray a 9×13 casserole dish with non-stick cooking spray to ensure easy serving later.

Step 3: Mix the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Toss shredded potatoes in melted butter until evenly coated.
2. Add jalapeno pimento cheese, sour cream, chicken broth, chopped green onions, salt, and black pepper.
3. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Pour the mixture into the prepared casserole dish. If desired, sprinkle 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top for added richness.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake in preheated oven for about 35 minutes or until edges are beginning to brown and are bubbly. Once done, remove from oven and let sit for about 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious Pimento Cheese Hash Brown Casserole!

How to Serve Pimento Cheese Hash Brown Casserole

Pimento Cheese Hash Brown Casserole is a versatile dish that can elevate any meal. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy family dinner, here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

For Breakfast or Brunch

• Serve with Eggs: Pair the casserole with scrambled or fried eggs for a hearty breakfast.
• Add Fresh Fruit: A side of seasonal fruit can add a refreshing touch to balance the richness of the casserole.

For Lunch or Dinner

• Complement with Salad: A light green salad dressed with vinaigrette provides a crisp contrast.
• Include Grilled Vegetables: Roasted or grilled vegetables add color and nutrition to your plate.

For Potlucks and Gatherings

• Pair with Dips: Serve alongside various dips like salsa or guacamole for an appetizer spread.
• Offer Bread Rolls: Warm, fluffy rolls are perfect for scooping up leftovers.

For Festive Occasions

• Serve with Holiday Ham: This dish pairs wonderfully with glazed ham for holiday meals.
• Accompany with Cranberry Sauce: A dollop of cranberry sauce adds a sweet-tart flavor that complements the casserole.

How to Perfect Pimento Cheese Hash Brown Casserole

To make your Pimento Cheese Hash Brown Casserole truly special, consider these helpful tips.

• Bold flavors matter: Use sharp cheddar cheese in addition to jalapeno pimento cheese for rich flavor depth.
• Keep it crispy: Bake until the edges are golden brown for that satisfying crunch.
• Customize heat levels: Adjust the amount of jalapeno in the pimento cheese based on your spice preference.
• Let it rest: Allow the casserole to sit briefly before serving; this helps it set and makes slicing easier.

Best Side Dishes for Pimento Cheese Hash Brown Casserole

When thinking about what to serve alongside your Pimento Cheese Hash Brown Casserole, these side dishes will complement it perfectly.

1. Garlic Green Beans: Fresh green beans sautéed in garlic create a vibrant and tasty side.
2. Coleslaw: A creamy coleslaw adds crunch and balances out the casserole’s richness.
3. Cornbread Muffins: Tender cornbread muffins are great for soaking up any extra cheese sauce.
4. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Caramelized Brussels sprouts bring earthiness and pair well with cheesy dishes.
5. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce, croutons, and Caesar dressing provide freshness and texture.
6. Sweet Potato Fries: Sweet potato fries offer a sweet contrast, adding variety to your meal.
7. Macaroni Salad: A cold macaroni salad can be refreshing alongside warm dishes like casseroles.
8. Baked Beans: Sweet baked beans complement savory casseroles nicely, making them a crowd favorite.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Pimento Cheese Hash Brown Casserole, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture.

• Using thawed hash browns: Always use frozen shredded hash brown potatoes for the best texture. Thawed potatoes can become mushy and watery.
• Skipping the seasoning: Don’t forget to season your dish! Adding salt and pepper enhances the flavors of the pimento cheese and other ingredients.
• Overbaking: Keep an eye on your casserole while it bakes. Overbaking can lead to a dry dish; aim for bubbly edges and a golden top.
• Not letting it rest: Allowing the casserole to sit for a few minutes after baking helps it set up, making serving easier.
• Ignoring customization: Feel free to adjust ingredients based on your taste. Incorporating additional vegetables or spices can elevate your casserole.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Pimento Cheese Hash Brown Casserole in an airtight container.
• It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Pimento Cheese Hash Brown Casserole

• You can freeze this casserole before or after baking.
• Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil or use a freezer-safe container.
• It will last up to 2 months in the freezer.

Reheating Pimento Cheese Hash Brown Casserole

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F, cover with foil, and bake for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place a portion on a microwave-safe plate, cover loosely, and heat for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through; this method helps retain moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Pimento Cheese Hash Brown Casserole?

Pimento Cheese Hash Brown Casserole is a savory dish combining hash browns with creamy pimento cheese, making it rich and flavorful.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance, cover it, and refrigerate until ready to bake.

How do I customize my Pimento Cheese Hash Brown Casserole?

You can add chopped bell peppers, different cheeses, or even cooked chicken for extra protein. Experiment with flavors that you enjoy!

Is Pimento Cheese Hash Brown Casserole suitable for potlucks?

Absolutely! This casserole is perfect for potlucks due to its easy preparation and crowd-pleasing flavor.

What are some serving suggestions for this casserole?

Serve alongside fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or even as part of a brunch spread. It’s versatile enough to fit any meal!

Final Thoughts

Pimento Cheese Hash Brown Casserole is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with various ingredients to suit your taste preferences. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering, this casserole is sure to impress. Give it a try and discover how easy it is to make this delicious dish your own!