Cheesy Chili Hash Brown Bake: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes hit the spot quite like a Cheesy Chili Hash Brown Bake. This easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing dish combines the heartiness of chili with the crispy goodness of hash browns, all wrapped up in a blanket of melted cheese. 

Whether you’re looking for a quick family dinner, a potluck favorite, or a game-day treat, this bake is guaranteed to be a hit. In this article, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step recipe, provide helpful cooking tips, and answer frequently asked questions about this delicious dish.

Ingredients

To make this Cheesy Chili Hash Brown Bake, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Chili Base:

• 1 lb ground beef (or turkey for a leaner option)

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed

• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed

• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes

• 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce

• 2 tbsp tomato paste

• 1 cup beef broth

• 2 tbsp chili powder

• 1 tsp cumin

• 1 tsp paprika

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 1/2 tsp black pepper

For the Hash Brown Topping:

• 1 package (20 oz) frozen hash browns, thawed

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

• 1/2 cup sour cream

• 1/4 cup melted butter

• 1/2 tsp garlic powder

• 1/2 tsp onion powder

• 1/4 tsp salt

• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chili

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat.

2. Add chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until fragrant (about 2 minutes).

3. Stir in the kidney beans, black beans, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, and beef broth.

4. Add chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.

5. Reduce heat and let simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld together.

Step 2: Prepare the Hash Brown Topping

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed hash browns, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, melted butter, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.

2. Stir until all ingredients are evenly distributed.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish and spread the chili mixture evenly in the bottom.

3. Spread the hash brown mixture over the chili layer, making sure to cover the entire surface.

4. Bake uncovered for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.

5. Let cool slightly before serving.

Serving Suggestions

• Garnishes: Top with fresh chopped parsley, green onions, or extra shredded cheese.

• Sides: Serve with a side of cornbread, garlic bread, or a fresh green salad.

• Toppings: A dollop of sour cream, salsa, or even avocado slices can enhance the flavors.

Storage and Reheating Tips

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

• Freezing: To freeze, let the dish cool completely, then wrap tightly with plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 3 months.

• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes.

FAQs About Cheesy Chili Hash Brown Bake

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the bake ahead of time, cover it, and refrigerate it overnight. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before placing it in the oven.

2. Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?

Absolutely! If using fresh potatoes, grate them and squeeze out any excess moisture before mixing them with the other topping ingredients.

3. How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

For a vegetarian version, simply omit the ground beef and add more beans or a meat substitute like lentils or plant-based crumbles.

4. What’s the best cheese to use for this recipe?

Cheddar cheese is a great choice for its sharp, tangy flavor, but you can also use Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or a Mexican blend for variety.

5. Can I make this spicier?

Yes! To increase the heat, add diced jalapeños, extra chili powder, cayenne pepper, or a splash of hot sauce.

6. Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Cook the chili in a skillet first, then transfer to a slow cooker, layering the hash brown mixture on top. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours.

7. What type of ground meat works best?

Ground beef is classic, but you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage for a unique flavor twist.

8. Can I add extra veggies?

Of course! Bell peppers, mushrooms, zucchini, or corn make great additions to the chili layer.

9. What’s the best way to get crispy hash browns?

For extra crispiness, broil the bake for the last 2-3 minutes until golden brown. Be sure to watch closely to prevent burning.

10. How do I prevent a soggy bake?

Make sure to drain any excess liquid from the chili before layering the hash browns on top. You can also pat the hash browns dry if they seem too wet.

Final Thoughts

The Cheesy Chili Hash Brown Bake is the ultimate dish for cozy dinners, game days, and potlucks. Its rich, savory chili base paired with crispy, cheesy hash browns makes for an unforgettable meal that’s easy to prepare and endlessly customizable. Whether you follow this recipe to the letter or add your own creative touches, one thing’s for sure—this dish will be a new favorite in your household!

Give this recipe a try and let us know how it turns out in the comments! Happy cooking!