Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole
This Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole is not just a dish; it’s a comforting experience that brings the familiar flavors of Cracker Barrel right to your home. Perfect for family dinners, brunch gatherings, or potlucks, this casserole is rich, cheesy, and irresistibly satisfying. With its creamy texture and delightful crunch on top, it’s sure to become a favorite at your table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With only 15 minutes of prep time, you can have this dish ready for the oven in no time.
- Deliciously Cheesy: The generous amount of cheddar cheese creates a creamy and savory flavor that everyone will love.
- Versatile Side Dish: This casserole pairs well with various main courses, making it a great addition to any meal.
- Crowd-Pleasing Comfort Food: Its hearty nature makes it perfect for feeding a large group, ensuring no one leaves hungry.
- Easy to Customize: Feel free to add extra ingredients like vegetables or different cheeses to make it your own.
Tools and Preparation
To whip up this delightful casserole, you need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more efficient.
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Essential Tools and Equipment
- 9×11 inch baking pan
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Non-stick cooking spray
Importance of Each Tool
- 9×11 inch baking pan: This size is ideal for even cooking and helps achieve that perfect golden top on the casserole.
- Large mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows you to combine all ingredients without mess.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements ensure that every flavor shines through in the final dish.
Ingredients
For the Casserole
- 1 bag (30 oz) frozen hash browns, thawed
- 8 tbsp (1 stick) butter, melted
- 1 can (10.5 oz.) condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded, divided
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp pepper
How to Make Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your casserole cooks evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Mixture
In a large bowl:
1. Mix together the chopped onion, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper.
2. Add in the sour cream and condensed cream of chicken soup; stir until well combined.
3. Gently fold in the thawed hash browns and melted butter until everything is evenly mixed.
Step 3: Bake the Casserole
- Grease your 9×11 inch baking pan with non-stick cooking spray.
- Pour the hash brown mixture into the prepared pan and spread it out evenly.
- Top with the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake in your preheated oven for 45–60 minutes, or until it is bubbly and golden brown on top.
Enjoy this delicious Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole as a comforting addition to any meal!
How to Serve Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole
This Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole is a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or as a tasty side for dinner, you can easily adapt it to suit your meal.
Breakfast Style
- Serve with scrambled eggs for a hearty breakfast.
- Pair with crispy bacon or sausage links for a complete morning feast.
Family Dinner
- Present alongside roasted chicken for a comforting family meal.
- Combine with grilled vegetables for a colorful plate.
Potluck Parties
- Offer it at potlucks and watch it disappear quickly.
- Accompany with fresh salads to balance the richness of the casserole.
Weeknight Meals
- Enjoy as a quick side with any protein of your choice.
- Pair it with store-bought rotisserie chicken for an easy dinner option.
Game Day Treats
- Serve as a crowd-pleaser during game day gatherings.
- Add some hot sauce on the side for those who like extra flavor.
How to Perfect Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole
To make sure your casserole turns out perfectly every time, follow these simple tips that will enhance the flavors and texture of this dish.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh onions and high-quality cheese will elevate the overall taste.
- Adjust the baking time: Keep an eye on the casserole; it may need more or less time based on your oven’s accuracy.
- Let it cool slightly: Allowing the casserole to rest before serving helps it set up nicely and makes cutting easier.
- Experiment with spices: Try adding garlic powder or paprika for an extra kick in flavor.
- Top with herbs: Fresh chives or parsley make great garnishes that add freshness and color.
Best Side Dishes for Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole
This hashbrown casserole pairs well with various sides, making your meal even more enjoyable. Here are some excellent side dishes to consider:
- Green Salad – A light green salad adds freshness and balances the richness of the casserole.
- Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal veggies roasted until tender complement the flavors perfectly.
- Grilled Chicken – Juicy grilled chicken provides a satisfying protein addition to your meal.
- Baked Beans – Sweet and savory baked beans create a delightful contrast to the cheesy casserole.
- Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw offers crunch and acidity, enhancing each bite of hashbrowns.
- Cornbread – Moist cornbread brings a touch of sweetness that pairs wonderfully with savory dishes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding mistakes can make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for when making Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole.
- Skipping Thawing: If you use frozen hash browns directly, the casserole may cook unevenly. Always thaw them for the best texture.
- Not Mixing Properly: Failing to mix ingredients well can lead to clumps in your casserole. Ensure all components are evenly combined for a delicious final dish.
- Overbaking: Baking too long can dry out the casserole. Keep an eye on it and check for doneness between 45-60 minutes.
- Ignoring Cheese Quality: Using low-quality cheese can affect flavor. Opt for good quality cheddar cheese for an irresistible taste.
- Underseasoning: Not adding enough salt or pepper can result in blandness. Taste your mixture before baking and adjust seasonings as needed.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Use within 3-5 days for the best quality.
Freezing Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly with plastic wrap.
- Best used within 2-3 months for optimal flavor.
Reheating Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake covered for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until warm.
- Stovetop: Heat gently in a pan over low heat, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about this dish that might help you further.
What makes Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole special?
This dish is beloved for its creamy texture and cheesy flavor, reminiscent of the famous restaurant version.
Can I customize my Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole?
Absolutely! You can add ingredients like cooked bacon, peppers, or different types of cheese to tailor it to your taste.
How do I know when the casserole is done?
The casserole is ready when it’s bubbly and golden brown on top, typically taking between 45-60 minutes at 350°F.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake.
Final Thoughts
Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole is not just a hearty side; it’s a comforting dish perfect for family gatherings or weeknight dinners. Its versatility allows you to customize it with various add-ins, making it a delightful choice every time. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe; your taste buds will thank you!
Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Serves approximately 8 people 1x
Description
Indulge in the comforting flavors of Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole, a dish that brings the beloved restaurant experience straight to your kitchen. This rich and cheesy casserole is perfect for family dinners, brunches, or potlucks. With its creamy texture and crispy topping, it’s bound to become a staple at your table. Easy to prepare in just 15 minutes, this versatile side pairs wonderfully with various main dishes, making it an ideal addition to any meal. Customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or cheeses for a personal touch.
Ingredients
- 30 oz frozen hash browns (thawed)
- 1 stick (8 tbsp) butter (melted)
- 10.5 oz can cream of chicken soup
- 1 small onion (chopped)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine chopped onion, 1 cup cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper.
- Stir in sour cream and cream of chicken soup until well mixed.
- Gently fold in thawed hash browns and melted butter.
- Grease a 9×11 inch baking pan and pour in the mixture, spreading evenly.
- Top with remaining cheddar cheese and bake for 45-60 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45–60 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/8 casserole (approximately 170g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
