Imagine a dish that combines crispy potatoes, melted cheese, and creamy goodness in every single bite - welcome to the most irresistible side dish you'll ever make! Our Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole is like a warm hug on a plate, guaranteed to transform your ordinary meal into a restaurant-worthy experience. Whether you're craving a hearty breakfast, planning a family brunch, or looking for the perfect side dish, this recipe will have everyone at the table begging for seconds.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 pounds frozen hashbrowns
- 1/2 cup onion, chopped
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish thoroughly with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the frozen hashbrowns, chopped onions, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and 1½ cups of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix ingredients thoroughly until well combined.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper, stirring to distribute the seasoning evenly throughout the hashbrown mixture.
- Pour the melted butter over the hashbrown mixture and stir to ensure all ingredients are well coated and integrated.
- Transfer the entire mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly to create a smooth top surface.
- Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole for an extra cheesy finish.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are crispy.
- Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow it to set and cool slightly.
- Serve hot as a delicious side dish, perfect alongside breakfast, brunch, or dinner entrees.
Tips
- Use frozen hashbrowns for convenience, but make sure to thaw them slightly and pat dry to prevent excess moisture.
- For extra flavor, consider adding crispy bacon bits or diced ham to the mixture.
- Let the casserole rest after baking to help it set and make serving easier.
- Don't overmix the ingredients - combine just until everything is evenly distributed.
- For a crispy top, broil the casserole for 2-3 minutes at the end of cooking, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Experiment with different cheese blends like adding some pepper jack for a spicy kick.
- Prepare the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate, then bake when ready - perfect for meal prep!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 26g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Cholesterol: 65mg
