This Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, delivering creamy, cheesy, and savory goodness in every bite. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even as a side dish at dinner, this casserole mimics the famous dish from Cracker Barrel, making it a hit with family and guests alike. With its crispy top layer of melted cheddar cheese and soft, tender hash browns, this dish is rich, hearty, and incredibly satisfying.
Ingredients:
- 1 bag (30 oz) frozen hash browns, thawed
- 8 tbsp (1 stick) butter, melted
- 1 can (10 ¾ oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded, divided
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×11 inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray, making sure to coat it evenly to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the chopped onion, 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper. Stir in the sour cream and condensed cream of chicken soup, mixing until everything is well incorporated.
3. Add Hash Browns and Butter:
Gently fold in the thawed hash browns and the melted butter. Continue mixing until all ingredients are evenly combined, but avoid overmixing to maintain the texture of the hash browns.
4. Prepare the Baking Dish:
Spoon the hash brown mixture into the greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly to create a smooth layer. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top to create a crispy, cheesy crust as it bakes.
5. Bake the Casserole:
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 60 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly. The casserole is ready when the cheese is melted and the edges are slightly crispy.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Let the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving to allow it to set. Serve as a side dish or enjoy it as a standalone meal!
Tips:
- Thaw the Hash Browns:
Ensure the hash browns are fully thawed before mixing to prevent excess moisture from making the casserole too soggy. You can thaw them overnight in the fridge or microwave them on a defrost setting. - Customize Your Cheese:
Feel free to swap out the cheddar for other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Colby, or a blend of cheeses for extra flavor. - Add a Crunchy Topping:
For added texture, consider topping the casserole with crushed cornflakes or Ritz crackers mixed with melted butter before baking. - Make it Meatier:
If you want to make this a more filling dish, add cooked, crumbled sausage or diced ham to the mixture before baking. - Vegetarian Option:
To make this dish vegetarian, simply substitute the cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup.
This Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole is the perfect dish to serve at family gatherings or holiday breakfasts. Its creamy texture, cheesy topping, and comforting flavors make it an irresistible option for any meal.
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