Indulge in the irresistible flavors of a beloved restaurant favorite with our Cracker Barrel Copycat Hashbrown Casserole recipe. This comforting dish features creamy shredded hash browns, savory cream of chicken soup, tangy sour cream, and gooey cheese, all baked to golden perfection for a side dish that’s sure to steal the show at any gathering or family dinner. Whether you’re reminiscing about meals at Cracker Barrel or simply craving a cozy comfort food fix, this recipe is guaranteed to hit the spot. So, let’s dive into the delicious details and recreate the magic of this iconic dish in the comfort of your own kitchen!
Ingredients:
- 32 oz frozen shredded hash browns, thawed
- 1 can (10.25 oz) cream of chicken (or cheddar) soup
- 1 pint sour cream
- ½ cup melted butter
- ½ cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cups grated colby cheese
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
Instructions:
- Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed shredded hash browns, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, melted butter, chopped onion, grated colby cheese, and pepper. Stir until all ingredients are well combined.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the hash brown mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
- Bake to Perfection: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly, and the top is golden brown.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley or additional shredded cheese if desired. Serve warm and enjoy the deliciousness!
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Add Crunch: For added texture, top the casserole with crushed cornflakes or buttery breadcrumbs before baking.
- Make it Spicy: Kick up the flavor by adding diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the hash brown mixture.
- Customize Cheeses: Experiment with different cheeses such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for a unique flavor twist.
- Add Protein: Incorporate cooked bacon, diced ham, or crumbled sausage into the casserole for a heartier dish.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):
Q: Can I use fresh hash browns instead of frozen? A: Yes, you can use fresh shredded potatoes if you prefer. Be sure to squeeze out any excess moisture before mixing them with the other ingredients.
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time? A: Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator until ready to bake. Simply remove it from the refrigerator and bake as directed when ready.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers? A: Yes, this casserole freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer individual portions or the entire casserole to freezer-safe containers or bags. Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Q: Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream? A: Yes, you can substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream if desired. Just keep in mind that Greek yogurt may impart a slightly tangier flavor to the casserole.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
Keto Version:
- Use cauliflower rice instead of hash browns to keep the carb count low.
- Replace the cream of chicken soup with a homemade keto-friendly cream sauce made from heavy cream, chicken broth, and cream cheese.
- Use full-fat sour cream and cheese for a keto-friendly option.
Low-Carb Version:
- Opt for low-carb cream of chicken soup or make your own low-carb cream sauce.
- Reduce the amount of onion used in the recipe to lower the carb content.
- Use a combination of low-carb cheeses such as mozzarella and Parmesan to reduce the overall carb count.
Savor the nostalgia and flavor of Cracker Barrel’s iconic Hashbrown Casserole with our homemade copycat recipe. Whether you’re serving it up as a side dish for breakfast, brunch, or dinner, this creamy and cheesy casserole is sure to be a hit with family and friends alike. With its simple preparation and irresistible taste, it’s bound to become a staple in your recipe repertoire. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a taste of comfort food heaven with this delicious dish!
