Better Than Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole
Hashbrown casserole is a breakfast or brunch staple that brings comfort to the table. This Better Than Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole recipe is an absolute crowd-pleaser that can easily become a family favorite. With its creamy texture and cheesy goodness, each bite feels like a warm hug, making it perfect for any occasion whether it be a casual family breakfast, a holiday brunch, or a potluck.
Why Make This Recipe
You might be wondering why you should make this hashbrown casserole over others. The answer is simple: this recipe strikes a perfect balance between simplicity and flavor. With just a handful of ingredients, it delivers a creamy, cheesy, and satisfying dish that can delight a variety of palates. Not to mention, it’s straightforward enough for even novice cooks to whip up in no time. Plus, the recipe is super adaptable, allowing you to mix in different ingredients to suit your preferences. It’s a fantastic way to bring people together around the breakfast table!
How to Make Better Than Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole
Creating this delicious hashbrown casserole is as easy as one, two, three! Stick around for the detailed steps, and you’ll be on your way to a heartwarming dish in no time.
Ingredients
- 1 (32 oz) bag frozen hashbrowns (thawed)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the thawed hashbrowns, shredded cheddar cheese, cream of chicken soup, and sour cream. Mix until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly.
- Remove from the oven, let it cool for a few minutes, and serve warm.
Pro Tips for Success with Hashbrown Casserole
- Thaw Your Hashbrowns: Ensure that your frozen hashbrowns are thoroughly thawed. This helps achieve that creamy texture and prevents excess water from making the casserole soggy.
- Cheese It Up: Feel free to mix different types of cheese! Mozzarella or pepper jack can add a fun twist to the flavor profile.
- Don’t Skimp on the Soup: Make sure to use cream of chicken soup for optimal creaminess. If you want a vegetarian alternative, consider using cream of mushroom soup.
- Bake it Right: Keep an eye on your casserole as it bakes. If the top gets too golden before the center is bubbly, cover it loosely with foil until it cooks through.
- Serve it Warm: Let it rest after removing it from the oven for a few minutes. This helps the casserole set and makes serving easier.
Flavor Variations for Hashbrown Casserole
- Veggie Delight: Add in sautéed onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms to bring extra flavor and nutrients.
- Meat Lovers: Incorporate cooked and crumbled bacon or sausage for a hearty twist.
- Spicy Kick: A sprinkle of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños can add a fun kick to your casserole.
- Southwest Style: Mix in some black beans and corn, topped with spicy salsa for a Southwestern flavor profile.
- Italian Version: Add in spinach and diced tomatoes for an Italian flair, along with mozzarella cheese.
Serving Suggestions for Hashbrown Casserole
This delicious hashbrown casserole can stand alone or be the star of your breakfast spread. Pair it with scrambled eggs, fresh fruit, or biscuits for a classic breakfast combination. It also works well alongside a fresh green salad for a brunch setting. Don’t forget about serving it with a side of your favorite hot sauce for an added flair!
Storage and Freezing Instructions for Hashbrown Casserole
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. If you want to freeze your hashbrown casserole, let it cool completely first and then wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Calories | Protein | Carbs | Fat | Fiber | Sodium |
|———-|———|——-|—–|——-|——–|
| 320 | 8g | 36g | 18g | 2g | 570mg |
FAQ About Better Than Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the hashbrown mixture up to a day in advance and store it covered in your refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake it, just pour it into the baking dish and put it in the oven as per the usual directions.
Is there a vegetarian option for this casserole?
Yes! You can easily make this dish vegetarian by replacing the cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom or vegetable soup. This way, you still get that creamy texture without any meat.
Can I customize the cheese in the recipe?
Certainly! While sharp cheddar cheese offers a great flavor, you can use any cheese you prefer. Consider mixing in mozzarella for stretchiness, or pepper jack for a spicy kick! The cheese can significantly alter the taste, so feel free to experiment.
What can I serve with hashbrown casserole?
This casserole is very versatile! It pairs beautifully with scrambled eggs, bacon, sausage, or even a simple green salad. You can also serve it alongside pancakes or French toast for a complete brunch spread.
How long does it take to bake the casserole?
Typically, the casserole should bake for about 45-50 minutes at 350°F (175°C). Keep an eye on it; once the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly, it’s done!
Final Thoughts
The Better Than Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole is not just any breakfast dish; it’s a comforting, filling, and fun way to start your day. With its creamy texture and cheesy flavor, it’s sure to become a recipe you rely on for gatherings, brunches, or a cozy family breakfast. Don’t hesitate to personalize it and make it your own! Happy cooking!
Print
Better Than Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole
- Total Time: 60 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This creamy and cheesy hashbrown casserole is a crowd-pleaser perfect for breakfast or brunch, delivering warmth and comfort in every bite.
Ingredients
- 1 (32 oz) bag frozen hashbrowns, thawed
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the thawed hashbrowns, shredded cheddar cheese, cream of chicken soup, and sour cream. Mix until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly.
- Remove from the oven, let it cool for a few minutes, and serve warm.
Notes
Thaw your hashbrowns completely for the best texture. You can customize the recipe by mixing in different cheeses or adding sautéed vegetables.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 570mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
