My husband loved it so much after trying it that he asked me to whip up another batch for his office potluck. It only takes four simple ingredients.

This Southern Hashbrown Casserole is rich, creamy, and packed with cheesy flavor. Instead of relying on condensed soup, it uses a tangy sour cream base to create a smooth, full-bodied texture. When tender shredded hashbrowns are combined with sharp cheddar, the result is a soft, velvety interior with a golden, lightly crisp layer on top. With just a few ingredients, it turns into a comforting, buttery dish that’s perfect for everything from holiday breakfasts to casual get-togethers.

Southern 4-Ingredient Hashbrown Casserole

Ingredients

• 1 bag (30–32 oz) frozen shredded hashbrowns, thawed
• 3 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded and divided
• 2 cups sour cream
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the potatoes
Preheat your oven to 350°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Tip:
After thawing, press the hashbrowns with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps prevent a watery texture.

Step 2: Mix the base
In a large bowl, stir together the sour cream and salt until smooth and well combined.

Step 3: Combine everything
Add the hashbrowns to the bowl and toss until evenly coated. Fold in 2 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese.

Tip:
You can taste the mixture here and adjust seasoning if needed, keeping in mind the cheese adds saltiness as it bakes.

Step 4: Assemble
Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, gently pressing it into an even layer. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheese over the top.

Step 5: Bake
Bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes, until hot and bubbling around the edges.

Tip:
For a golden, slightly crisp top, move the dish to a higher rack during the last 5–10 minutes of baking.

Step 6: Rest and serve
Remove from the oven and let it sit for at least 10 minutes before serving.

Tip:
Letting it rest helps it firm up, making it easier to slice and serve neatly.

Creamy, cheesy, and wonderfully simple—this dish proves that a short ingredient list can still deliver big comfort and flavor.