Pimento Cheese Hash Browns

This pimento cheese hash brown casserole is my favorite go to for weekend brunch or casual gatherings. It combines creamy, cheesy comfort with a little kick of jalapeno for just the right amount of flavor without overwhelming the dish.

I made this dish last minute for a family potluck and it disappeared so fast everyone asked for the recipe.

Ingredients

• Frozen shredded hash brown potatoes: provide the base that crisps up nicely in the oven choose a good quality brand with minimal additives
• Butter: adds richness and helps coat the potatoes for an even bake opt for unsalted so you control the seasoning
• Jalapeno pimento cheese: gives that classic Southern flavor with a spicy lift pick a fresh tub from the deli or make your own if you can
• Sour cream: lends creaminess and tang which balances the spices use full fat for best results
• Chicken broth: brightens the mix and prevents it from drying out select low sodium to keep salt levels in check
• Green onions: add a fresh crunch and mild onion flavor chop them finely for even distribution
• Salt and coarse ground black pepper: season the casserole simply but effectively adjust to taste
• Sharp cheddar cheese topping: adds a golden crust and extra cheesy notes this is optional but highly recommended for texture and flavor contrast

Instructions

Build The Base:

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and prepare a 9 by 13 casserole dish by spraying it with non stick cooking spray. This prevents sticking and ensures easy serving later.

Toss The Potatoes:

Place your frozen shredded hash browns in a large mixing bowl and drizzle with melted butter. Toss well to make sure every strand is coated. This helps the potatoes bake up crisp and flavorful.

Add The Creamy Goodness:

Add two cups of jalapeno pimento cheese and eight ounces of sour cream to the mixing bowl. Pour in half a cup of chicken broth to keep the casserole moist and add depth of flavor. Stir gently but thoroughly so the ingredients combine well.

Season And Freshen:

Sprinkle in chopped green onions along with half a teaspoon of salt and half a teaspoon of coarse ground black pepper. Stir once more to spread the seasonings evenly throughout the mixture.

Transfer And Top:

Pour everything into the prepared casserole dish and spread it out evenly. If you want, sprinkle half a cup of grated sharp cheddar cheese over the top for a wonderful cheesy crust that browns during baking.

Bake And Rest:

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 35 minutes or until you see the edges turning golden brown and bubbly. When done, take it out and let it rest five minutes. This resting time sets the casserole so it slices cleanly.

The jalapeno pimento cheese is my secret weapon here—layered with creaminess and just enough heat it makes this casserole distinctly Southern and utterly addictive. Every time I serve it, my family gathers around the table eager for seconds and the occasional third helping.

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers covered tightly in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven set to 325 degrees Fahrenheit to keep the crisp top intact, or microwave slices for a quicker fix but you might lose some texture.

Ingredient Swaps

If you prefer a milder flavor, swap jalapeno pimento cheese with regular pimento cheese or even plain sharp cheddar mixed with diced pimentos. For a vegetarian option, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Serving Ideas

Serve this casserole alongside fresh fruit or a simple green salad to lighten the meal. It also pairs wonderfully with crispy bacon or sausage if you want to make it more of a hearty brunch feast.

Seasonal Twists

In spring add finely diced bell peppers or fresh herbs like chives for brightness. In winter swap green onions for caramelized leeks to deepen the flavor profile. This dish adapts well year-round.

This casserole offers a perfect balance of creamy and spicy flavors with a satisfying crunch. Serve fresh and enjoy the layered textures and tastes.

Frequently Asked Recipe Questions

→ Can I use regular pimento cheese instead of jalapeno?

Yes, using regular pimento cheese will result in a milder flavor while maintaining the creamy texture.

→ What is the best way to achieve crispier edges?

Baking until the edges turn golden and allow them to sit a few minutes after baking helps create a crispy crust.

→ Can I add meat to this dish?

Adding cooked bacon or ham enhances the flavor and protein content, providing a savory twist.

→ Is sour cream essential in the mixture?

Sour cream adds moisture and creaminess, helping bind the ingredients and enrich the flavor.

→ Can I omit the cheddar topping?

Yes, the cheddar topping is optional and can be excluded to reduce fat without sacrificing the main flavors.