Description
This hearty Cajun Hash Brown Casserole combines tender chicken, smoky sausage, and crispy hash browns enveloped in a creamy, cheesy sauce with a spicy Cajun kick. Perfect for a satisfying brunch or dinner, this baked casserole blends flavors and textures for a comforting southern-inspired dish.
Ingredients
Scale
Meats
- 4 cups chopped cooked chicken
- 1 (16-oz) package smoked sausage, sliced
Dairy and Dairy Alternatives
- 2 cups sour cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- â…“ cup heavy cream (optional)
Canned Goods
- 2 (10.5-oz) cans unsalted cream of chicken soup
- 1 (6-oz) can french fried onions, divided
Frozen
- 1 (32-oz) package frozen shredded hash browns
Seasonings and Oils
- 1 tbsp olive or vegetable oil
- 2 to 3 tbsp Cajun/Creole seasoning
Instructions
- Preheat oven and prepare pan: Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC). Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking pan with cooking spray to prevent sticking, then set it aside.
- Cook the smoked sausage: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the sliced smoked sausage with the olive or vegetable oil. Stir occasionally and cook for 5 to 8 minutes until the sausage is lightly browned and flavorful.
- Mix casserole ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped cooked chicken, browned smoked sausage, two cans of unsalted cream of chicken soup, sour cream, Cajun or Creole seasoning, 1½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese, half of the french fried onions, optional heavy cream, and frozen shredded hash browns. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Assemble the casserole: Pour the mixture into the prepared 9×13-inch baking pan, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese over the top, followed by the remaining half of the french fried onions for a crunchy topping.
- Bake the casserole: Place the casserole uncovered in the preheated oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes. Bake until the casserole is bubbly, heated through, and the top is golden brown and crispy.
Notes
- Use unsalted cream of chicken soup to better control the salt content.
- The heavy cream is optional; it adds extra creaminess but can be omitted for a lighter version.
- Adjust Cajun seasoning to your preferred spice level.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated well in the oven or microwave.
- For a gluten-free version, ensure the cream of chicken soup and fried onions are gluten-free or use suitable substitutes.
