Cracker Barrel’s Hashbrown Casserole is a timeless favorite that brings Southern comfort to any meal. I’ve always loved its creamy texture and rich flavors that perfectly complement a hearty breakfast or dinner. There’s something special about recreating a beloved restaurant dish right in your own kitchen.
Ingredients
- 1 (30 oz) package frozen shredded hash browns, thawed
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup melted butter
- ½ cup chopped onion
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Tools Needed
To create the perfect Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole, I rely on these essential tools:
- Large Mixing Bowl: Ideal for combining all the creamy ingredients smoothly.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Ensures accurate measurements for consistent results.
- 8×8-Inch Baking Dish: Provides the perfect size for even baking.
- Spatula: Helps in mixing the ingredients thoroughly and scraping down the bowl.
- Whisk: Essential for blending the mixture to a creamy consistency.
- Oven: Needed to bake the casserole to golden perfection.
- Knife and Cutting Board: For chopping onions and any other prep work.
- Aluminum Foil: To cover the casserole during baking, preventing over-browning.
Having these tools on hand makes the preparation process seamless and helps achieve that authentic Cracker Barrel taste right in your kitchen.
Directions
Creating the perfect Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole at home is simpler than you might think. Follow these steps to achieve that creamy, comforting dish reminiscent of your favorite Southern restaurant.
Prep
- Preheat Your Oven
- Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready when you assemble the casserole.
- Prepare the Ingredients
- Chop the Onion: Finely dice one medium onion.
- Shred the Cheese: Measure and shred two cups of sharp cheddar cheese.
- Measure the Spices: Gather one teaspoon of garlic powder, ½ teaspoon of salt, and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper.
- Melt the Butter
- In a small saucepan, melt ½ cup of butter over low heat until it’s fully liquefied.
Assemble
- Mix the Creamy Base
- In a large mixing bowl, combine one can of cream of chicken soup, one cup of sour cream, and the melted butter. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Add the Flavorings
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, chopped onion, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Incorporate the Hash Browns
- Gently fold in four cups of frozen shredded hash browns, ensuring they are thoroughly coated with the creamy mixture.
- Transfer to Baking Dish
- Pour the mixture into an 8×8-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
Bake
- Cover the Dish
- Tent the baking dish with aluminum foil to prevent the top from browning too quickly.
- Bake the Casserole
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the casserole to heat through.
- Uncover and Brown
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Let It Set
- Allow the casserole to rest for 10 minutes before serving. This helps it set, making it easier to portion and enhancing the overall texture.
Make-Ahead Instructions
Preparing the Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole ahead of time is a game-changer for busy weeknights and holiday gatherings. Here’s how I ensure this dish is always ready to impress:
Step 1: Assemble the Casserole
After following the initial preparation steps, gently mix all the ingredients as directed. Ensure the hash browns are evenly coated with the creamy mixture for consistent flavor and texture.
Step 2: Choose Your Storage Method
- Refrigerate: Transfer the assembled casserole to an airtight container or cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Freeze: For longer storage, place the tightly covered baking dish in the freezer. The casserole can be frozen for up to two months. I like to wrap the dish with an extra layer of aluminum foil for added protection against freezer burn.
Step 3: Label and Date
Always label your containers with the date you prepared the casserole. This simple step helps you keep track of freshness and ensures you enjoy the casserole at its best quality.
Step 4: Baking from the Refrigerator
When you’re ready to bake the refrigerated casserole:
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cover and Bake: Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
- Uncover and Continue Baking: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Rest Before Serving: Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes to set, making it easier to portion.
Step 5: Baking from the Freezer
If you’ve frozen the casserole, follow these steps:
- Thaw Overnight: Move the casserole from the freezer to the refrigerator and let it thaw overnight.
- Preheat the Oven: Heat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cover and Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 60 minutes.
- Uncover and Continue Baking: Remove the foil and bake for another 20 minutes until the top is beautifully browned.
- Allow to Rest: Let it sit for 10 minutes before serving to achieve the perfect creamy texture.
Tips for Success
- Avoid Overmixing: When preparing ahead, mix the ingredients just until combined to prevent the hash browns from becoming mushy.
- Consistent Layers: Make sure the casserole is spread evenly in the baking dish to ensure even cooking.
- Add Extra Cheese: If you’re preparing the dish in advance, consider adding a bit more cheese before baking for an extra cheesy finish.
By following these make-ahead instructions, you can enjoy the rich, comforting flavors of Cracker Barrel’s Hashbrown Casserole without the last-minute rush. It’s a perfect addition to your meal prep arsenal, ensuring delicious results every time.
Conclusion
Making Cracker Barrel’s Hashbrown Casserole at home has truly transformed my meal times. There’s something special about enjoying that creamy and comforting dish without needing to visit the restaurant. The recipe is simple and the results are always delicious.
Whether you’re planning a busy weeknight or hosting a holiday gathering this casserole fits perfectly. I love how easy it is to prepare ahead of time and customize to your liking. Adding extra cheese or adjusting the seasonings makes it uniquely yours.
Serving this hearty casserole always brings a smile to everyone’s face. It’s become a favorite in my kitchen and I’m excited for you to try it too. Enjoy the warm, comforting flavors and the ease of making a beloved classic right at home.
