Warm, cheesy, and irresistibly creamy, this hashbrown casserole is the ultimate comfort dish, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a satisfying side. Combining simple ingredients with a rich, velvety texture, it delivers a flavor-packed bite in every forkful. Whether served at family gatherings, holiday feasts, or casual weekend brunches, this easy-to-make recipe is always a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredient Breakdown
Frozen hash browns serve as the foundation of this dish, offering convenience while ensuring a perfect balance between crispy edges and a tender interior. Sharp cheddar cheese enhances the richness, delivering a gooey, melty consistency that binds everything together. Sour cream not only adds a creamy texture but also introduces a slight tang that cuts through the richness, providing depth to the overall flavor. Melted butter infuses the casserole with a buttery, golden finish, ensuring a luscious mouthfeel. Cream of chicken soup acts as the binding agent, creating a velvety base that holds the casserole together while contributing a savory, comforting flavor. Finely chopped onion provides a subtle bite and mild sweetness, complementing the creamy and cheesy elements. Lastly, the seasoning—a simple yet essential combination of salt and black pepper—ensures all the flavors are balanced, bringing out the best in each ingredient without overpowering the dish.
Step-by-Step Cooking Guide
Preparing the Ingredients
Before assembling the casserole, ensure the frozen hash browns are properly thawed to allow even baking and prevent excess moisture. Chop the onion finely so it blends seamlessly into the mixture without overpowering the dish.
Mixing the Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the hash browns, shredded cheddar, sour cream, melted butter, cream of chicken soup, and onions. Stir thoroughly to ensure that each ingredient is evenly distributed, creating a well-balanced texture in every bite.
Baking to Perfection
Spread the mixture evenly into a greased baking dish, smoothing the top for uniform cooking. Bake until the casserole turns golden brown and begins bubbling around the edges, ensuring a crispy yet creamy consistency. Adjust baking time as needed based on your oven’s heat distribution.
Recipe Tips & Frequently Asked Questions
Using fresh shredded cheese instead of pre-packaged for better melt quality
Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can prevent smooth melting, so fresh cheese is best.
How to achieve a crispy top layer by adding extra cheese or crushed crackers
A sprinkle of cheese in the last 10 minutes of baking or a light topping of crushed buttery crackers enhances the golden crust.
Storing leftovers properly and the best ways to reheat without drying out
Store in an airtight container and reheat in the oven at a low temperature to retain moisture.
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?
Yes, but they should be grated and patted dry to remove excess moisture.
What’s a good substitute for cream of chicken soup?
A homemade version using butter, flour, broth, and milk works well, or swap for cream of mushroom for a vegetarian alternative.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble it a day in advance, store covered in the fridge, and bake fresh when needed.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Simply substitute cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom or a homemade creamy base.
What to Serve With This Recipe
Breakfast Pairings – A perfect companion to scrambled eggs, bacon, or sausage.
Dinner Side Ideas – Complements roasted meats such as ham, turkey, or chicken.
Creative Variations – Use as a filling for breakfast burritos or layer it inside a breakfast sandwich for a unique twist.
This Cracker Barrel hashbrown casserole is the epitome of simple, comforting flavors coming together in one irresistible dish. Whether served as a side or a standalone meal, its creamy, cheesy goodness is sure to win over any crowd. Experiment with add-ins like crispy bacon, diced ham, or jalapeños to make it your own, and enjoy a dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
2 lbs frozen hash browns
2 cups cheddar cheese, grated
1 pint sour cream
½ cup butter or margarine, melted
1 (10 ¼ ounce) can cream of chicken soup
½ cup onion, peeled and finely chopped
1 teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Lightly grease an 11 x 14-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the frozen hash browns, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, melted butter, cream of chicken soup, and finely chopped onions. Season with salt and black pepper, then stir everything together until well combined and evenly coated.
Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly to ensure uniform baking. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 45 minutes, or until the top develops a golden-brown crust and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.
Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy warm as a comforting side dish.
Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 lbs frozen hash browns
- 2 cups cheddar cheese grated
- 1 pint sour cream
- ½ cup butter or margarine melted
- 1 10 ¼ ounce can cream of chicken soup
- ½ cup onion peeled and finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. Lightly grease an 11 x 14-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the frozen hash browns, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, melted butter, cream of chicken soup, and finely chopped onions. Season with salt and black pepper, then stir everything together until well combined and evenly coated.
- Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly to ensure uniform baking. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 45 minutes, or until the top develops a golden-brown crust and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.
- Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy warm as a comforting side dish.
