This comforting Hashbrown Casserole is a mix of crispy hashbrowns, creamy cheese, and tasty seasonings. It’s perfect for breakfast or a cozy dinner!
Honestly, who can resist melted cheese on crispy potatoes? I love making this dish for family gatherings—it’s always a hit! Remember, leftovers (if there are any) taste even better!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Frozen Shredded Hashbrowns: These are the base of the dish, bringing that wonderful potato texture. If you prefer, you can use fresh grated potatoes, but be sure to squeeze out excess moisture.
Sour Cream: This adds a creamy tanginess. Greek yogurt is a great substitute for a healthier option, and it still gives a nice creaminess!
Cream of Chicken Soup: It’s key for flavor and creaminess. If you’re vegetarian or don’t have it, try using cream of mushroom soup or a homemade white sauce for a similar effect.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives the best flavor. If you want something milder or different, feel free to use Monterey Jack or Colby Jack cheese.
How Do I Ensure My Casserole Turns Out Perfectly Creamy and Cheesy?
Getting the right texture in your casserole is all about mixing and baking. Make sure to combine wet and dry ingredients well, so everything is evenly distributed.
- When mixing, gently fold the ingredients to prevent breaking apart the hashbrowns too much.
- Keep an eye on the oven; the casserole should be bubbly and golden on top. Cover with foil if it’s browning too quickly.
Letting it rest after baking allows it to set up, making it easier to serve. These tips will help you get that comforting, creamy result everyone loves!
Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 1 (30 oz) package frozen shredded hashbrowns, thawed
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional)
- 1/2 tsp onion powder (optional)
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 45 minutes to bake. Just a quick assembly of ingredients, and you’ll have a warm, cheesy dish ready to comfort your family and friends in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This gives your casserole a nice, even cooking temperature. While that’s heating up, go ahead and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, toss together the thawed hashbrowns, melted butter, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, finely chopped onion, 1 1/2 cups of cheddar cheese, milk, salt, pepper, and any optional seasonings you like. Mix everything well until it’s nicely blended. The combination of ingredients creates that creamy texture we love!
3. Spread the Mixture:
Now, pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly so it cooks well. This is the heart of your casserole, so make sure it’s nicely distributed.
4. Add Cheese on Top:
Grab that last half cup of shredded cheddar cheese and sprinkle it on top of your mixture. This layer will create a deliciously cheesy crust as it bakes!
5. Bake It Up:
Place the baking dish in the oven and let it bake uncovered for about 45 minutes. Keep an eye on it; you want it bubbling and golden brown on top when it’s done.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once it’s out of the oven, you can sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley on top for a little color and freshness. Let the casserole sit for about 5-10 minutes; this makes it easier to serve.
7. Enjoy!
Dig in and enjoy this rich, creamy, and cheesy casserole just like they serve at Cracker Barrel! It’s perfect for any meal, whether breakfast, brunch, or as a hearty side dish!
Can I Use Fresh Hashbrowns Instead of Frozen?
Yes, you can! If you choose to use fresh hashbrowns, make sure to grate them and squeeze out any excess moisture to prevent the casserole from becoming soggy.
Is There a Vegetarian Option for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute the cream of chicken soup with a cream of mushroom soup or a homemade white sauce. This keeps the dish creamy without using meat products.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of milk to return some creaminess if needed.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.