Hokie Pot is a comfort food deeply intertwined with Virginia Tech’s culture, particularly during tailgating events. This hearty casserole is a cherished staple, making it a popular choice at gatherings and celebrations. The term “Hokie” stems from an old spirit yell created in 1896, which evolved into a nickname for Virginia Tech’s athletic teams and fans.
Classic Hokie Pot Recipe
Ingredients
- 30-ounce bag frozen shredded hash browns, thawed
- 16-ounce container sour cream
- 10.5-ounce can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, plus 1/2 cup reserved for topping
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed hash browns, sour cream, cream of mushroom soup, melted butter, 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper, stirring thoroughly until uniformly incorporated. Transfer the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out to form a consistent layer. Bake the casserole for 45 minutes. After this initial baking period, remove the dish from the oven and sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Return the casserole to the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the top is lightly golden brown.
Tips for Making and Serving Hokie Pot
To elevate your Hokie Pot, consider incorporating various additions for enhanced flavor and texture. Crumbled, cooked bacon or finely chopped green onions can be folded into the potato mixture before baking, providing a smoky or fresh counterpoint. A blend of cheeses, such as Monterey Jack or Colby, can also be used in place of or in addition to cheddar for a more complex cheesy taste.
Hokie Pot is an excellent make-ahead option, ideal for busy schedules or large gatherings. You can assemble the entire casserole the day before, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it. When ready to bake, add an extra 10-15 minutes to the initial baking time to account for the chilled temperature. Leftovers can be reheated in the oven at around 300°F (150°C) until warmed through, or in individual portions in a microwave. This casserole pairs wonderfully with grilled meats like barbecue chicken or pulled pork, making it a versatile side dish for any tailgate or family meal.