Comfort food is something we all crave from time to time, and this Easy Cottage Cheese Hashbrown Casserole delivers just that—warm, creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying. This dish is the perfect blend of golden hashbrowns, rich cheese, and the surprising addition of cottage cheese, which gives it a deliciously creamy texture without being overly heavy. It’s the kind of recipe that works for a lazy Sunday breakfast, a holiday brunch, or even a cozy family dinner. Best of all, it comes together quickly with simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen, making it an ideal dish for both beginner and experienced home cooks.

Full Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 (32 oz / 900 g) package frozen hashbrowns, thawed

• 1 cup (240 g) cottage cheese

• 1 cup (120 g) shredded cheddar cheese

• 1 cup (240 ml) sour cream

• 1 small onion, finely diced

• 2 large eggs

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• 2 tablespoons butter, melted

• ½ cup (60 g) grated Parmesan cheese

• Optional: chopped chives or parsley for garnish

Cooking Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) baking dish with butter or nonstick cooking spray.

2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cottage cheese, sour cream, eggs, and melted butter until smooth and fully combined.

3. Add the garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and finely diced onion to the mixture, stirring well to incorporate the flavors.

4. Fold in the thawed hashbrowns, making sure they are evenly coated with the creamy mixture.

5. Add the shredded cheddar cheese and half of the grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until well distributed.

6. Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese on top.

7. Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the casserole is golden brown on top and set in the center.

8. Allow the casserole to cool for 5–10 minutes before slicing and serving. Garnish with chopped parsley or chives if desired.

Nutrients (per serving, based on 8 servings)

• Calories: ~290

• Protein: 13 g

• Fat: 16 g

• Carbohydrates: 22 g

• Fiber: 2 g

• Calcium: 180 mg

• Sodium: 460 mg

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are so many reasons why this hashbrown casserole will win you over. For starters, it’s versatile—you can serve it at breakfast with eggs, at brunch with fruit and salad, or as a hearty side dish at dinner with roasted meats or vegetables. It’s also budget-friendly, as most of the ingredients are inexpensive staples like potatoes, cheese, and cottage cheese. The preparation is simple, making it a stress-free dish even if you’re cooking for a crowd. And perhaps the best part—it strikes that perfect balance between indulgent and nourishing, thanks to the protein boost from cottage cheese.

The Origins and Inspiration Behind the Dish

Hashbrown casseroles are deeply rooted in American comfort food traditions. In many Southern homes, this dish—often known as “funeral potatoes”—was made for large gatherings because it was easy to prepare, filling, and guaranteed to please. The traditional version relied heavily on sour cream and canned cream soups for creaminess. This modern take draws inspiration from that classic idea but gives it a lighter, fresher update by swapping in cottage cheese. It’s both nostalgic and innovative, staying true to its comforting roots while adding a nutritious twist.

Ingredient Spotlight

Cottage cheese is the star ingredient in this dish. While it may seem unusual in a casserole, it melts into the mixture beautifully, adding a creamy, slightly tangy layer of flavor while boosting the protein content. Hashbrowns, of course, make up the base—providing that familiar potato comfort that everyone loves. Cheddar cheese brings gooey richness, while Parmesan adds a sharp, nutty bite on top. Sour cream balances the flavors with tanginess, and onions bring depth and savoriness. Together, these ingredients create a dish that is both simple and layered with flavor.

Storage and Reheating Tips

One of the biggest perks of this casserole is that it stores and reheats incredibly well, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers. Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply cover with foil and place in a 325°F (165°C) oven for 10–15 minutes, or microwave individual slices for 1–2 minutes. This dish also freezes beautifully—wrap portions tightly in foil, place in a freezer bag, and store for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as directed.

Common Variations to Try

One of the best things about this casserole is how customizable it is. You can add cooked bacon, ham, or sausage for a meatier version. For a vegetarian option, sauté mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach and fold them in. If you love spice, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or swap in pepper jack cheese for a kick. You can also experiment with different cheeses—mozzarella for a stringy pull, gouda for a smoky flavor, or Swiss for a mild nuttiness. For a lighter version, use reduced-fat cottage cheese and sour cream.

Pairing Recommendations

This dish pairs wonderfully with both light and hearty foods. For breakfast or brunch, serve it with scrambled eggs, fresh fruit, and coffee. As a dinner side, it complements roasted chicken, grilled steak, or even a fresh green salad. If you want to keep things cozy, pair it with a bowl of soup, like tomato or broccoli cheddar. The balance of creamy potatoes with something fresh or protein-rich on the side makes for a well-rounded and satisfying meal.

Health Benefits

While it is undeniably a comfort dish, this casserole offers some surprising health benefits. Cottage cheese provides a hefty dose of protein, which supports muscle health and helps keep you fuller for longer. Potatoes are an excellent source of energy and fiber, especially when paired with the protein from cheese and eggs. The dish is also rich in calcium, supporting bone and teeth health. By incorporating vegetables or choosing lighter versions of the dairy ingredients, you can make this dish even more nutrient-dense.

Conclusion

This Easy Cottage Cheese Hashbrown Casserole is proof that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. With its creamy, cheesy, golden layers and simple preparation, it’s the kind of recipe that will quickly earn a permanent spot in your rotation. Whether you’re hosting brunch, feeding your family on a busy weeknight, or looking for the perfect make-ahead side dish, this casserole delivers every time. It’s hearty, satisfying, and endlessly adaptable—a modern take on a classic favorite that brings comfort and nourishment to the table in one dish.