Growing up, my mom would make the most incredible Pimento Cheese Hash Brown Casserole for our family gatherings. The rich, creamy pimento cheese paired with the crispy hash browns was an absolute flavor explosion in my mouth. I can still remember the mouthwatering aroma wafting through the house as it baked, drawing everyone to the kitchen in anticipation. It was the dish that brought us all together, creating cherished memories around the table.
Why This Pimento Cheese Hash Brown Casserole Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Pimento Cheese Hash Brown Casserole
What sets this Pimento Cheese Hash Brown Casserole apart is the harmonious blend of textures and flavors. The shredded hash browns create a crisp, golden-brown base that contrasts beautifully with the creamy, cheesy pimento topping. The key is to strike the right balance between the crispy potatoes and the rich, indulgent pimento cheese. With a touch of garlic, onion, and a subtle kick of cayenne, this casserole is bursting with flavor in every bite.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
The secret to this Pimento Cheese Hash Brown Casserole lies in the carefully selected ingredients:
- 2 cups shredded hash browns: These form the foundation, providing a delightful crunch and starchy base.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese and 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese: The combination of these two cheeses creates a perfectly melted, gooey texture.
- 1/2 cup diced pimientos: These add a delightful pop of color and a subtle, sweet flavor that complements the other ingredients.
- 3 large eggs: The eggs help bind the casserole, ensuring it holds its shape and has a creamy, custard-like consistency.
- 1/2 cup sour cream and 1/4 cup milk: These dairy ingredients add richness and creaminess to the dish.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, and 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper: These spices and seasonings elevate the flavors, creating a truly mouthwatering experience.
Step-by-Step Pimento Cheese Hash Brown Casserole Instructions
Preparing Your Pimento Cheese Hash Brown Casserole
Preparing this Pimento Cheese Hash Brown Casserole is a breeze, with a prep time of just 15 minutes and a cook time of 35 minutes, for a total time of 50 minutes. All you’ll need is a mixing bowl, a baking dish, and a few essential kitchen tools.
1- Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray, ensuring the entire surface is evenly coated.
2- In a large mixing bowl, combine the 2 cups of shredded hash browns, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, 1 cup of shredded Monterey Jack cheese, and the 1/2 cup of diced pimientos. Gently mix these ingredients together until they’re evenly distributed.
3- In a separate bowl, whisk together the 3 large eggs, 1/2 cup of sour cream, 1/4 cup of milk, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder, and 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
4- Pour the egg mixture over the hash brown and cheese mixture, and use a spatula to gently fold the ingredients together until they’re fully incorporated. The hash browns should be coated in the creamy, cheesy mixture.
5- Carefully transfer the casserole mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Ensure the top is smooth and level.
6- Bake the Pimento Cheese Hash Brown Casserole in the preheated oven for 35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are crispy. Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving, as it will be piping hot.
Pro Tips for Success
- For an extra crispy hash brown base, be sure to thoroughly squeeze out any excess moisture from the shredded potatoes before mixing them into the casserole.
- Grate the cheeses yourself for maximum melty goodness. Pre-shredded cheeses can sometimes contain anti-caking agents that can prevent them from melting as smoothly.
- Adjust the cayenne pepper to your desired level of spice. If you prefer a milder casserole, start with a pinch and gradually increase the amount.
- Serve the Pimento Cheese Hash Brown Casserole immediately for the best texture and flavor. The crisp hash brown crust is at its best when freshly baked.
Serving and Storing Your Pimento Cheese Hash Brown Casserole
Perfect Pairings for Pimento Cheese Hash Brown Casserole
This Pimento Cheese Hash Brown Casserole, which serves 6 people, is the ultimate comfort food that can be enjoyed in a variety of settings. For a satisfying brunch, pair it with a fresh fruit salad and a mimosa or Bloody Mary. If you’re looking for a hearty dinner, it pairs beautifully with a simple green salad and crusty bread. And for a casual gathering, it’s the perfect main dish, complemented by a selection of crunchy veggies and your favorite dipping sauces.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
The great news about this Pimento Cheese Hash Brown Casserole is that it can be easily stored and reheated, making it a fantastic make-ahead option. Once baked and cooled, you can cover the dish tightly with foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat it in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15-20 minutes, until heated through.
For longer-term storage, the casserole can be frozen for up to 2 months. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in foil or place it in an airtight container. To reheat, thaw the casserole in the refrigerator overnight and then bake it at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until it’s hot and bubbly.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Pimento Cheese Hash Brown Casserole
Creative Pimento Cheese Hash Brown Casserole Variations
While this classic Pimento Cheese Hash Brown Casserole is already a showstopper, there are plenty of ways to put your own spin on it. Try adding diced ham or crumbled bacon for a delicious protein boost. For a seasonal twist, fold in roasted red peppers or caramelized onions. You could also experiment with different cheese combinations, such as a blend of sharp cheddar, Gruyère, and Parmesan.
Making Pimento Cheese Hash Brown Casserole Diet-Friendly
To make this casserole more diet-friendly, you can swap out the regular hash browns for a low-carb alternative, such as shredded cauliflower or zucchini. For a dairy-free version, replace the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses with plant-based cheese alternatives, and use a non-dairy milk and sour cream. Vegans can enjoy this dish by using an egg substitute and vegan cheese.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use frozen hash browns instead of fresh?
A: Absolutely! Frozen shredded hash browns work just as well in this recipe. Just be sure to thaw and squeeze out any excess moisture before using.
Q: How long does it take to prepare the Pimento Cheese Hash Brown Casserole?
A: The total time for this recipe is 50 minutes, with 15 minutes of prep time and 35 minutes of cook time.
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes, this Pimento Cheese Hash Brown Casserole is perfect for making in advance. You can assemble the casserole and refrigerate it for up to 3 days before baking. When ready to serve, simply bake as directed.
Q: How many servings does this recipe make?
A: This Pimento Cheese Hash Brown Casserole recipe yields 6 servings.
Q: What if my casserole turns out too dry or too wet?
A: If your casserole seems too dry, try adding a bit more milk to the egg mixture. If it’s too wet, you can try baking it for a few extra minutes to allow the hash browns to crisp up and absorb more of the liquid.
Pimento Cheese Hash Brown Casserole
- Total Time: 50
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
This Pimento Cheese Hash Brown Casserole is a comforting, creamy, and indulgent dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Packed with shredded hash browns, melted cheese, and diced pimientos, it’s a true crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and sure to satisfy.
Ingredients
– 2 cups shredded hash browns
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 1/2 cup diced pimientos
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the shredded hash browns, cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, and diced pimientos. Mix well to evenly distribute the ingredients.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
4. Pour the egg mixture over the hash brown and cheese mixture, and stir until well combined.
5. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is set.
7. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
This casserole can be made ahead of time and refrigerated until ready to bake. You can also experiment with different types of cheese or add in diced ham or bacon for extra flavor. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 35
- Category: Dips & Spreads
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Conclusion
This Pimento Cheese Hash Brown Casserole is truly a comforting masterpiece that will have your family and friends raving. The perfect balance of crispy hash browns, creamy pimento cheese, and savory spices creates a dish that’s both satisfying and utterly delicious. Whether you’re serving it for a special brunch, a cozy family dinner, or a casual gathering, this casserole is sure to become a new favorite. So preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and get ready to experience the magic of Pimento Cheese Hash Brown Casserole. Don’t forget to let me know how it turns out in the comments!
