Homemade Hash Brown Casserole

By srumbel

This homemade hash brown casserole is a cheesy dish that is perfect for brunch or as a side dish to any meal.
from insidebrucrewlife.com

Ingredients

• 4 Tablespoons butter
• 1/2 cup diced onion
• 1/2 cup diced red pepper
• 1/2 cup diced green pepper
• 4 Tablespoons flour
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup sour cream
• 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• 1 - 30 ounce bag frozen shredded hash brown potatoes, thawed
• salt and pepper
• green onions
• 3/4 cup crushed crackers (we use Chicken in a Biscuit) (optional)

Details

Preparation time 20mins
Cooking time 60mins

Preparation

Step 1

Melt the butter in a large saucepan. Add the onions and saute for 2 minutes. Add the green and red peppers and cook for another 2 minutes.
Sprinkle the flour over the mixture and stir in. Stir and cook for an additional minute.
Whisk in the milk and broth slowly. Cook for a few minutes until thickened slightly. Stir in the sour cream and 2 cups of cheese until melted and creamy.
Stir in the thawed potatoes until coated. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Stir in 1 more cup of cheese. Pour into a greased 9x13 dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top. Top with the cracker crumbs if desired. Cover with foil and bake at 375 degrees for 30 minutes. Uncover and cook 10 minutes longer. Top with green onions and serve hot. Serves 12.

Notes

* You can add bacon or ham to the potato mixture before pouring into the baking dish.

**This is a great casserole to freeze for a later meal. Prepare and pour into a foil pan. Let cool, then cover and freeze. Thaw overnight before baking.