Hashbrown Casserole from Cracker Barrel features tender shredded potatoes mixed with creamy cheese, onions, and a hint of savory seasoning, baked to golden perfection with a crispy, cheesy topping that offers a comforting blend of creamy and crunchy textures.
Equipments
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon or spatula
- Cheese grater
- Baking dish (9x13 inch)
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Oven
Ingredients
- 2 lbs (900g) frozen shredded hash browns, thawed
- 1 (10.5 oz) can condensed cream of chicken soup
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups crushed cornflakes (for topping)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted (for topping)
Frozen shredded hash browns should be fully thawed and well-drained to avoid excess moisture that can make your casserole soggy. Using sharp cheddar cheese provides a rich, creamy flavor that complements the tangy sour cream and savory cream of chicken soup. Finely chopping the onion ensures it blends smoothly into the creamy mixture, enhancing the overall taste without overpowering it. Crushed cornflakes create a crispy, golden topping when combined with melted butter, adding a satisfying crunch to each bite. Your Hashbrown Casserole from Cracker Barrel copycat menu will deliver the perfect balance of creamy and crispy textures that mimic the beloved original.
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine thawed hash browns, cream of chicken soup, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, 1/2 cup melted butter, chopped onion, salt, and black pepper.
- Mix ingredients together thoroughly with a spoon or spatula.
- Spread the potato mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- In a separate bowl, combine crushed cornflakes with 1/4 cup melted butter.
- Sprinkle the cornflake mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Bake uncovered for 45–50 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and topping is golden brown.
- Let rest a few minutes before serving.
Substitution
Hashbrown Casserole from Cracker Barrel copycat menu captures the creamy, cheesy, and crispy qualities of the original dish. You can substitute the condensed cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup for a different flavor profile or to make it vegetarian. If frozen shredded hash browns are unavailable, fresh potatoes can be shredded and blanched briefly to mimic texture. Use gluten-free cornflakes as a topping alternative for dietary restrictions without sacrificing crunch. Adjust the amount of salt and pepper to suit your taste and balance the seasoning with other ingredients.
Tips
Ensure the frozen shredded hash browns are fully thawed and well-drained to prevent excess moisture, which can make your casserole soggy. Your sour cream and cream of chicken soup should be at room temperature for better mixing and a creamier texture. When spreading the mixture in the baking dish, avoid overpacking to ensure even cooking and a crispy topping. Use crushed cornflakes instead of regular breadcrumbs for the topping to achieve the signature golden crunch that enhances both texture and flavor.
Nutritions
Hashbrown Casserole from Cracker Barrel provides a rich source of carbohydrates primarily from shredded potatoes and cornflake topping, fueling your energy needs. The cheddar cheese and sour cream add significant amounts of calcium and protein, essential for muscle maintenance and bone health. Butter and cream of chicken soup contribute dietary fats, increasing the dish's caloric density and providing fat-soluble vitamins. Your meal offers a comforting balance of macronutrients, but moderation is key due to its higher saturated fat and sodium content.
Storage
Store your Hashbrown Casserole in an airtight container or cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil to maintain freshness. Refrigerate the casserole for up to 3-4 days to keep the creamy cheese and tender potatoes safe to eat. For longer storage, freeze the casserole in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months, and thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Variation or Alternatives
To add a twist to your Cracker Barrel hashbrown casserole, try swapping the cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup for a different flavor profile. You can also mix in diced green chilies or chopped jalapenos to introduce a spicy kick. For a richer texture, replace sour cream with Greek yogurt or cream cheese, and instead of cornflakes, consider using crushed Ritz crackers or panko breadcrumbs for a crispier topping. You might also bake the casserole covered with foil during the first 30 minutes to keep it moist, then uncover for the last 15-20 minutes to achieve a perfectly golden crust.
Allergies
Hashbrown Casserole from Cracker Barrel contains common allergens such as dairy from cheddar cheese and sour cream, as well as eggs which may be present in the cornflake topping. The condensed cream of chicken soup often contains wheat and soy, making it potentially unsafe for those with gluten or soy allergies. You should carefully check product labels and consider your specific allergies before consuming this dish to avoid adverse reactions.
Why this recipe?
Hashbrown Casserole from Cracker Barrel is beloved for its creamy texture, cheesy flavor, and crispy topping, delivering a perfect balance of comfort and taste. The dish features shredded potatoes, cheddar cheese, onions, and a creamy sauce baked to golden perfection, creating a rich and satisfying experience. Many appreciate the nostalgic quality and homestyle feel that makes it a standout side at the restaurant. Your attempt to recreate this copycat recipe allows you to enjoy that beloved comfort food anytime with control over ingredients and freshness.