Pimento Cheese Hash Brown Casserole

Imagine the irresistible aroma of golden, crispy hash browns mingling with the tangy, creamy goodness of homemade pimento cheese wafting through your kitchen. This Pimento Cheese Hash Brown Casserole is Southern comfort food elevated to new heights, combining two beloved classics into one spectacular dish that’s guaranteed to impress at any gathering. The contrast between the crunchy potato exterior and the gooey, cheesy interior creates a texture sensation that keeps you coming back for more. You’ll learn how to create this crowd-pleasing Pimento Cheese Hash Brown Casserole with simple ingredients while achieving that perfect balance of flavors that will make this recipe your new go-to comfort food.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Pimento Cheese Hash Brown Casserole is about to become your favorite comfort food for so many reasons. First, it’s incredibly versatile – perfect for breakfast alongside eggs, as a hearty side dish for dinner, or as the star at your next potluck. The contrasting textures make every bite an adventure – from the golden-brown crispy top layer to the creamy, cheese-laden middle, and the satisfying hash brown base.

What truly sets this casserole apart is the homemade pimento cheese element. Unlike many hash brown casseroles that rely solely on shredded cheese, this recipe incorporates the distinctive tang and complexity of pimento cheese with its signature red peppers and creamy base. It’s also a time-saver for busy cooks, as you can prepare components ahead of time or even assemble the entire dish the night before baking.

Perhaps best of all, this hash brown pimento cheese bake is virtually foolproof. Even novice cooks can create this impressive dish that tastes like it came from a Southern grandmother’s kitchen. The combination of familiar ingredients transformed into something extraordinary makes this recipe truly special.

Ingredients

To create this delicious Pimento Cheese Hash Brown Casserole, you’ll need:

• 30 oz (850g) frozen hash browns, thawed
• 2 cups (8 oz/226g) sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
• 1 cup (4 oz/113g) Monterey Jack cheese, freshly grated
• 8 oz (226g) cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup (115g) sour cream
• 1/4 cup (57g) mayonnaise
• 1 jar (4 oz/113g) diced pimentos, drained
• 3 green onions, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• 1/2 cup (15g) crushed butter crackers (like Ritz)

The key to exceptional flavor in this cheesy pimento hash brown bake lies in using freshly grated cheese rather than pre-shredded varieties, which contain anti-caking agents that can affect melting. Additionally, the combination of sharp cheddar and creamy Monterey Jack creates the perfect cheese balance, while real pimentos (not red bell peppers) provide that authentic Southern flavor.

Pro Tips

Master the Moisture Balance
The secret to a perfectly textured Pimento Cheese Hash Brown Casserole is controlling moisture. Thoroughly thaw your frozen hash browns, then place them in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out excess moisture. This crucial step prevents a soggy casserole and ensures those crispy edges everyone fights over. For hash brown perfection, spread them evenly in your baking dish and pre-bake for 15 minutes before adding your pimento cheese mixture.

Perfect Your Pimento Cheese
For the most flavorful hash brown casserole with pimento cheese, let your cream cheese come completely to room temperature before mixing. This ensures a smooth, lump-free pimento cheese base. When mixing your cheeses, add ingredients in stages rather than all at once – start with cream cheese, then add sour cream and mayonnaise, followed by shredded cheeses, and finally the pimentos and seasonings. This method creates the creamiest, most evenly distributed cheese mixture.

Temperature Matters
The difference between a good and great Pimento Cheese Hash Brown Casserole often comes down to baking temperature and timing. Start with a higher temperature (400°F/205°C) for the first 15 minutes to develop a beautiful golden crust, then reduce to 350°F/175°C for the remainder of baking time. This two-stage approach creates the perfect contrast between crispy exterior and creamy interior. Always let the casserole rest for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to settle and the texture to set properly.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Hash Browns
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Take your thawed hash browns and squeeze out excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel. This step is crucial for achieving that crispy texture in your Pimento Cheese Hash Brown Casserole. Spread the hash browns evenly in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, pressing them down slightly to form a solid base. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of the melted butter, then bake for 15 minutes to partially cook the potatoes.

Step 2: Create the Pimento Cheese Mixture
While the hash browns pre-bake, prepare your pimento cheese mixture. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and fluffy. Add the mayonnaise and sour cream, mixing until well combined. Fold in the grated cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, followed by the drained pimentos, minced garlic, sliced green onions, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. The mixture should be creamy but substantial, with vibrant flecks of pimento throughout.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake
Remove the partially baked hash browns from the oven. Spread your pimento cheese mixture evenly over the hash brown layer, making sure to reach all the way to the edges. In a small bowl, combine the crushed butter crackers with the remaining tablespoon of melted butter, then sprinkle this mixture over the top of the casserole for a delicious crunchy topping.

Step 4: Final Baking
Return the assembled casserole to the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling. If you notice the top browning too quickly, loosely cover with foil for the remainder of the baking time. Your Pimento Cheese Hash Brown Casserole is done when it’s hot throughout and has developed those irresistible crispy edges. Allow the casserole to rest for 10 minutes before serving, which helps it set up properly for easier serving.

Variations

Breakfast Casserole Version
Transform this Pimento Cheese Hash Brown Casserole into a complete breakfast by adding protein. Brown 1 pound of breakfast sausage or 8 slices of chopped bacon, then layer it between the hash browns and pimento cheese mixture. For an even heartier morning meal, whisk 6 eggs with 1/4 cup of milk, pour over the assembled casserole before baking, and extend the cooking time by 10-15 minutes. This creates a delicious all-in-one breakfast that’s perfect for holiday mornings or weekend brunches.

Spicy Southwest Twist
For heat lovers, create a southwest version of this pimento cheese potato casserole by adding 1 can of drained, diced green chilies, 1 teaspoon of cumin, and substituting pepper jack for the Monterey Jack cheese. Top with crushed tortilla chips instead of butter crackers, and finish the baked casserole with fresh cilantro, diced avocado, and a dollop of sour cream. This variation adds a delicious Tex-Mex flair that pairs perfectly with grilled meats or as part of a festive brunch spread.

Lightened-Up Option
For a lighter version that still delivers on flavor, use reduced-fat cream cheese, light sour cream, and 2% milk cheese. Replace half the hash browns with riced cauliflower (be sure to thoroughly drain it first), and use Greek yogurt in place of mayonnaise. The result is a more nutritious but still delicious Pimento Cheese Hash Brown Casserole that doesn’t sacrifice the creamy, cheesy goodness of the original.

Storage and Serving

This Pimento Cheese Hash Brown Casserole keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 4 days when stored in an airtight container. For optimal results, reheat individual portions in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes, which helps revive the crispy texture better than microwave reheating. If you’re meal prepping, you can also freeze the baked casserole in portions for up to 3 months – simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

For serving, pair this versatile casserole with eggs and fresh fruit for a perfect weekend breakfast. For dinner, it makes an extraordinary side dish alongside grilled chicken, pork chops, or a simple green salad with vinaigrette. My favorite presentation is to serve it hot from the oven, garnished with extra sliced green onions and a light dusting of paprika, alongside crispy bacon and a dollop of sour cream.

For potlucks or family gatherings, prepare the casserole in a disposable aluminum pan with a lid for easy transport. The Pimento Cheese Hash Brown Casserole is delicious at room temperature, making it ideal for buffets where food might sit out for a while.

FAQs

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?
Yes, you can substitute fresh potatoes. Peel and grate about 2 pounds of russet potatoes, then rinse thoroughly in cold water to remove excess starch. Squeeze completely dry before using. The texture will be slightly different but still delicious in this Pimento Cheese Hash Brown Casserole.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the entire casserole up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it covered. Add about 5-10 minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold. Alternatively, you can prepare the pimento cheese mixture up to 3 days ahead and store separately until ready to assemble.

Why is my casserole soggy?
The most common reason for a soggy pimento cheese hash brown bake is not removing enough moisture from the potatoes. Make sure to thoroughly thaw and dry your hash browns before using. Also, pre-baking the hash brown layer helps create a barrier that prevents sogginess.

Can I use store-bought pimento cheese to save time?
While homemade pimento cheese yields the best flavor, you can use 2 cups of quality store-bought pimento cheese in a pinch. Just add a little extra shredded cheese and the spices from the recipe to enhance the flavor.

Is there a vegetable I can add to make this more nutritious?
Absolutely! Sautéed spinach, bell peppers, or broccoli make excellent additions. Just make sure to cook and thoroughly drain any vegetables before adding them to prevent excess moisture in your casserole.

Conclusion

This Pimento Cheese Hash Brown Casserole is comfort food at its finest — a glorious marriage of crispy potatoes and tangy, creamy Southern pimento cheese that creates an irresistible dish your family will request again and again. It’s the kind of recipe that transforms ordinary gatherings into memorable occasions, equally at home at holiday brunches, potluck dinners, or Sunday family meals. With its perfect balance of textures and flavors, this casserole demonstrates how simple ingredients can become something truly extraordinary when combined with care and a touch of Southern charm. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this Pimento Cheese Hash Brown Casserole promises delicious results every time.

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