Creamy Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole Recipe

This Creamy Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole is a copycat version of the beloved Cracker Barrel dish. It’s a rich, cheesy, and creamy casserole made with frozen hashbrowns, sour cream, and plenty of cheese. Perfect for brunch, holidays, or as a comforting side dish, this casserole is easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Rich and Creamy: Loaded with cheese, sour cream, and a flavorful sauce, this casserole is indulgent and delicious.
• Easy to Make: With minimal prep and simple ingredients, this dish comes together quickly.
• Perfect for Gatherings: Great for brunch, potlucks, holidays, or family dinners.
• Freezer-Friendly: Make it ahead of time and freeze it for a convenient meal later.

Key Ingredients

• Frozen Hashbrowns: Shredded frozen hashbrowns are the base of the casserole.
• Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds a bold cheesy flavor to the dish.
• Sour Cream: Adds creaminess and tang to the casserole.
• Cream of Chicken Soup: Provides a rich and creamy base for the casserole. You can use store-bought or homemade.
• Butter: Adds richness and helps create a golden, crispy top.
• Onion: Finely chopped onion adds flavor and a bit of texture.
• Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and garlic powder to enhance the flavor.

How to Make Creamy Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.

Step 2: Mix the Casserole Ingredients

• In a large bowl, combine 1 can (10.5 oz) of cream of chicken soup, 1 cup of sour cream, 1/2 cup of melted butter, 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, and 1 small finely chopped onion. Stir until everything is well combined.
• Add 1 package (32 oz) of frozen shredded hashbrowns (no need to thaw) to the bowl and mix until the hashbrowns are evenly coated with the creamy mixture.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

• Pour the hashbrown mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.

Step 4: Bake the Casserole

• Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.

Step 5: Serve

• Let the casserole cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with additional cheese, fresh parsley, or green onions if desired.

Tips for the Best Hashbrown Casserole

1. No Need to Thaw Hashbrowns: You can use frozen hashbrowns directly in the recipe without thawing them first, which makes this dish even more convenient.
2. Shredded vs. Cubed Hashbrowns: This recipe calls for shredded hashbrowns, but you can use cubed hashbrowns if you prefer a chunkier texture.
3. Cheese Options: While sharp cheddar is traditional, feel free to mix in other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Colby for extra flavor.
4. Make It Crunchy: For an added crunch, sprinkle crushed cornflakes or crushed Ritz crackers over the top before baking.

Recipe Variations

• Meaty Hashbrown Casserole: Add cooked bacon, ham, or sausage to the casserole for a heartier version.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom soup for a vegetarian-friendly casserole.
• Spicy Hashbrown Casserole: Add diced jalapeños, or use pepper jack cheese to add some heat to the dish.
• Breakfast Hashbrown Casserole: Add scrambled eggs or cooked breakfast sausage to turn this dish into a delicious breakfast casserole.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the casserole, cover it, and refrigerate it overnight before baking. When ready to bake, simply remove it from the fridge and bake as directed.

2. Can I freeze hashbrown casserole?

Yes, this casserole freezes well. After baking, let it cool completely, then cover tightly with aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven.

3. What can I serve with hashbrown casserole?

Hashbrown casserole is versatile and pairs well with roasted meats, eggs, biscuits, or vegetables. It’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dinner!

4. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover hashbrown casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving