2cupsSharp Cheddar Cheeseshredded (240g) - or plant-based cheese alternative
1/2cupYellow Onionfinely diced (75g)
1cupCooked Turkey or Chickendiced (150g) - optional for protein boost
4tbspUnsalted Butter60g - or vegan butter alternative
1/4cupAll-Purpose Flour30g
2cupsWhole Milk480ml - or unsweetened oat milk for dairy-free
1/2cupSour Cream120g - or cashew cream for plant-based
1tspSalt5g
1/2tspBlack Pepperfreshly ground
1/2tspGarlic Powder2g
1/2cupSharp Cheddar Cheeseshredded for topping (60g)
2tbspFresh Chiveschopped - or green onions
1/4cupPanko Breadcrumbs30g - optional for extra crunch
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
If using frozen hashbrowns, thaw completely and drain any excess moisture using paper towels or a clean kitchen towel.
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add flour and whisk constantly for 1-2 minutes to create a light roux.
Gradually add milk while whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Cook for 3-4 minutes until sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
Remove from heat and stir in sour cream, salt, pepper, and garlic powder until smooth. Set aside to cool slightly.
In a large mixing bowl, combine thawed hashbrowns, 2 cups shredded cheese, diced onion, and cooked meat (if using).
Pour the prepared white sauce over the hashbrown mixture and stir gently until evenly coated.
Transfer mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Top with remaining 1/2 cup cheese and panko breadcrumbs if desired.
Bake uncovered for 35-45 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling. Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh chives or green onions.
Notes
MAKE-AHEAD:
Casserole can be assembled up to 24 hours in advance. Cover tightly and refrigerate, then add 10-15 minutes to baking time if cooking from cold.STORAGE:
Leftovers keep in refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat individual portions in microwave for 1-2 minutes, or reheat entire dish in 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes until heated through.DIETARY MODIFICATIONS:
For dairy-free version, use vegan butter, oat milk, and plant-based cheese alternatives. For gluten-free, substitute flour with cornstarch or gluten-free flour blend.TROUBLESHOOTING:
If casserole appears watery, ensure hashbrowns are thoroughly thawed and drained. If top browns too quickly, cover with foil for remaining bake time. For crispier top, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end.