Main Dishes

Hash Brown Casserole, Mimosa, and Malibu Rising

May 4, 2025
editor
Pair the comforting Hash Brown Casserole with Taylor Jenkins Reid's recent novel "Malibu Rising" and a Mimosa cocktail to create an exquisite experience of indulgence and relaxation. "Malibu Rising" offers a narrative rich in family dynamics and emotions, much like the layered flavors of the casserole. The bright and effervescent Mimosa complements the dish's richness and adds a splash of freshness, making it a delightful companion. Together, this trio promises to transport you to a day of cozy reading and culinary enjoyment.
Hash Brown Casserole

Ingredients

  • 1 (30-ounce) bag frozen shredded hash browns, thawed
  • 1 can (10.5 ounces) condensed cream of chicken soup
  • 1 1/2 cups sour cream
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1 cup crushed cornflakes or breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter (for topping)

Instructions

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed hash browns, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, melted butter, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped onion, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
  • Stir until all ingredients are well mixed and evenly distributed.
  • Pour the hash brown mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
  • If using, mix the crushed cornflakes or breadcrumbs with the 2 tablespoons of melted butter. Sprinkle the topping mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.
  • Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving.

Malibu Rising

Malibu Rising

A novel about one unforgettable night in the life of a family: the Rivas. Four famous siblings throw an epic party to celebrate the end of summer. But over the course of twenty-four hours, their lives will change forever. It’s the story of love, betrayal, secrets, and the bonds that form the fabric of family ties.
GLOBE AND MAIL BESTSELLER NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER NEW YORK TIMES EDITORS' CHOICE Malibu 1983. Four famous siblings throw an epic party to celebrate the end of the summer. But over the course of one night, each of their lives will be changed forever. It's the day of Nina Riva's annual end-of-summer party, and anticipation is at a fever pitch. Everyone wants to be around the famous Rivas: Nina, the talented surfer and supermodel; brothers Jay and Hud, one a championship surfer, the other a renowned photographer; and their adored baby sister, Kit. Together the siblings are a source of fascination in Malibu and the world over–especially as the offspring of the legendary singer Mick Riva. The only person not looking forward to the party of the year is Nina herself, who never wanted to be the center of attention, and who has also just been very publicly abandoned by her pro tennis player husband. Oh, and maybe Hud–because it is long past time for him to confess something to the brother from whom he's been inseparable since birth. Jay, on the other hand, is counting the minutes until nightfall, when the girl he can't stop thinking about promised she'll be there. And Kit has a couple secrets of her own–including a guest she invited without consulting anyone. By midnight the party will be completely out of control. By morning the Riva mansion will have gone up in flames. But before that first spark in the early hours before dawn, the alcohol will flow, the music will play and the loves and secrets that shaped this family's generations will all come rising to the surface. Malibu Rising is a story about one unforgettable night in the life of a family: the night they each have to choose what they will keep from the people who made them . . . and what they will leave behind.

Discussion Questions

  • What role does the setting of Malibu play in the narrative? How does it influence the characters?
  • Discuss the significance of the ocean in the lives of the Riva siblings. What does it symbolize?
  • Explore the theme of family legacy in the book. How do the siblings grapple with their father's legacy?
  • How does Reid explore the concept of fame and its impact on personal relationships?
  • What are the major turning points in the book? How do they reshape the characters' trajectories?
  • Discuss the relationships between the siblings. How are they similar, and how are they different?
  • How does the novel address themes of identity and self-discovery?
  • In what ways does Taylor Jenkins Reid depict resilience and overcoming adversity?
  • How does the novel balance between personal dreams and family responsibilities?
  • What impact do secrets and hidden truths have on the family's dynamic?
Authors: Taylor Jenkins Reid
ISBN: 1524798657
Publisher: Anchor Canada
Published Date: 2023-05-23

Mimosa

Mimosa
A classic brunch cocktail made with champagne and chilled citrus juice, typically orange juice. The Mimosa is perfect for adding a touch of elegance and zest to any meal, making it a stunning accompaniment to the rich flavors of a casserole dish.

Ingredients

  • 1 part champagne
  • 1 part chilled orange juice

Instructions

  • In a champagne flute, pour the champagne first, filling the glass halfway.
  • Top with equal part chilled orange juice.
  • Gently stir, if desired, to blend the ingredients evenly.
  • Serve immediately while chilled.