1 (24 oz.) frozen hash browns, thoroughly defrosted
10 oz. sharp cheddar cheese, grated
1 can cream of mushroom soup
1 pt. sour cream
1/2 c. finely chopped onion
1 tsp. black pepper
1 c. croutons, crushed or Durkee onions in the can

Mix all except the Durkee onions together. Pour into greased 9 x 13 inch baking pan. Sprinkle with croutons, if desired. Bake at 325 degrees for 1 hour. If using Durkee onions, crush and put on last 5 minutes.