Cheesy Potato Casserole (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Potato Base

01 - 1 (32-ounce) package frozen diced hash browns (or shredded potatoes)
02 - 2 cups sour cream
03 - 1 (10.5-ounce) can cream of chicken soup
04 - ¾ cup unsalted butter, melted, divided (½ cup for mixture, ¼ cup for topping)
05 - 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
06 - 1 teaspoon salt
07 - 1 teaspoon onion powder (optional)

→ Topping

08 - 2-3 cups corn flakes, crushed

# Instructions:

01 - Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter and set aside.
02 - Place the frozen hash browns in a colander and let them sit at room temperature until fully thawed and excess moisture has drained.
03 - While the potatoes are thawing, combine the sour cream, cream of chicken soup, and ½ cup of the melted butter in a large bowl. Mix well until smooth.
04 - Add the shredded cheddar cheese, salt, and onion powder (if using) to the cream mixture. Stir until all ingredients are well incorporated.
05 - Add the thawed hash browns to the cheese mixture and stir until the potatoes are evenly coated. Spread this mixture into the prepared baking dish.
06 - Place the crushed cornflakes and remaining ¼ cup of melted butter in a large resealable plastic bag. Seal the bag and shake until the cornflakes are evenly coated with butter.
07 - Sprinkle the buttered cornflakes evenly over the potato mixture in the baking dish.
08 - Bake in the preheated oven for 42-46 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the edges are bubbling. Serve warm.

# Notes:

01 - For make-ahead preparation, assemble the potato mixture but don't add the cornflake topping. Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours, then add the topping just before baking.
02 - If cornflakes aren't available, you can substitute with Panko breadcrumbs or crushed Ritz crackers for the topping.
03 - Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the microwave.