Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole is a perennial favorite, and there’s a reason for it. The perfect blend of soft potato shreds and creamy and delicious cheese is the ultimate comfort food. Serve it with breakfast classics like sausages or pancakes or as a filling dinner accompaniment. It’s a meal that will satisfy every desire.
What if you could avoid driving to a restaurant and enjoy this classic dish at home? Making this recipe at home will recreate all the delicious flavors you’ve always loved and allow you to alter it according to your preferences. Suppose you’re cooking for your guests, impressing your family, or simply giving yourself a treat. In that case, this recipe will surely be a success.
Let’s begin by making this delicious casserole, using easy-to-follow steps and suggestions to ensure the best results.
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Ingredients to Perfect This Classic Casserole
The preparation of Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole requires basic pantry staples and fresh ingredients. This is what you’ll need to make a delicious and creamy meal:
- Frozen hashbrowns Make use of a 30 oz bag of shreds of hashbrowns chilled to allow for mixing. Do not use diced potatoes in this recipe since they alter the texture.
- Butter Blend 1/2 cup unsalted butter for an intense, buttery taste that will enhance the dish’s flavor.
- Soup of the chicken: 1 can of soup is the basis that gives the creamy consistency that Cracker Barrel hashbrown casserole s famous for.
- Cheddar cheese: 2 cups are needed to achieve its sharp, cheese-y taste. To add depth, consider mixing the cheese with Monterey Jack.
- Sour cream: A cup of sour cream adds tanginess and smoothness to the mixture.
- Onion: Cut one small onion finely, balancing the sweetness with a delicate bite.
- Spices to use: Add a pinch of black pepper and optional garlic powder to add a touch of flavor that doesn’t overpower the dish’s flavor.
Optional: Add cooked bacon pieces, diced ham, or even jalapenos to give an exciting twist to the traditional casserole. This versatility makes it simple to alter the recipe to your preferences or dietary preferences.
Step-by-Step Guide to Make Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole
The secret to making a fantastic Cracker Barrel hashbrown casserole is a perfect combination of creamy and golden-baked deliciousness. Follow these guidelines to recreate the famous Cracker Barrel dish:
- Prepare in the oven. Your oven must be at 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees C). This will ensure that the casserole bakes evenly. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish using cooking spray or butter. This will stop the casserole from sticking.
- Make your base recipe: In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, chicken soup cream, sour cream, diced onion, black pepper, and garlic powder (if using it). Mix until the ingredients are well blended and smooth.
- Mix with the cheese and hashbrowns: Gently fold the thawed frozen hashbrowns and 1 1/2 cups of cheddar cheese into the moist mixture. Please Make sure the hashbrowns are evenly coated, but do not overmix to avoid breaking them.
- Transfer to a baking dish. Distribute the mix evenly over the baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining half cup of cheese over the top, creating a golden, cheese-y crust while baking.
- Bake the casserole for 45 to 50 minutes. The top should be golden and bubbly, and the interior should remain delicious and creamy.
- Serve and cool: Let the casserole sit for 5 minutes before leaving the oven. This will allow it to cool and make it easy to serve. Sprinkle with fresh parsley or chives to add some color.
Serve warm your casserole with roasted vegetables, grilled and charred meats, or a freshly green salad for an entire dish.
Ideas for Variations and Paring
Tips and Variations
| Tip/Variation | Description |
|---|---|
| Vegetarian Swap | Replace the cream in the chicken soup with cream of mushroom soup. Add extra vegetables like broccoli, zucchini, or bell peppers. |
| Add a Spicy Kick | Mix with diced jalapenos, cayenne pepper, and red pepper flakes to give it a spicy twist. |
| Crunchy Topping | Add crushed popcorn, Ritz crackers, and breadcrumbs melted with butter to add texture. |
| Play around with cheese | Try blending Gruyere, Parmesan, or Pepper Jack for a more sophisticated flavor profile. |
| Make It Ahead | To make dinner preparation easy, the casserole can be assembled the previous night, stored in the refrigerator, and baked fresh the next day. |
| Gluten-Free Option | Make a gluten-free chicken soup or thicken it using rice flour or cornstarch. |
| Lighter Version | Substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt, or use reduced-fat cheese to get a lower-calorie alternative. |
| Herb and Garlic Infusion | For more flavor, add fresh herbs such as parsley, thyme, or chives and a little garlic powder. |
| Bacon Lovers’ Favorite | Sprinkle the casserole with bacon pieces before baking to add a smoky taste. |
Pairing Ideas
- Breakfast Buffet: Serve Cracker Barrel hashbrown Casserole with scrambled eggs, crisp bacon, and fresh fruits for a filling breakfast.
- Dinner Combo: Pair with the grilled chicken, steamed beans, and a garden salad to create a balanced dinner.
- Brunch delight: Add mimosas or freshly made coffee to the breakfast table.
These easy presentation tips can ensure that your dish looks stunning and provide an unforgettable dinner experience for everybody around the dining table!
Original Twist: A Smoky BBQ Hashbrown Casserole
Are you looking to put a different twist on the classic Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole? Try this spicy BBQ variation that’s guaranteed to please the crowd! By incorporating a few easy items, you can make the recipe you’ve always made into a tasty food item or main dish with bold barbecue flavors.
How to Add the BBQ Flair
- Barbecue sauce: Mix 1/4 cup of the preferred BBQ sauce in the chicken soup to create the perfect tangy, smokey base.
- Smoked Cheddar: You can replace regular cheddar with gouda or smoked cheddar to add a layer of smoke.
- Grilled Protein: Add shredded chicken or pulled pork for an excellent main meal.
- Optional topping: Sprinkle crushed tortilla chips or smoked paprika on top of the cake before baking to create an incredibly crispy and flavorful finish.
This BBQ variation is delicious with grilled vegetables or fresh coleslaw. It’s the perfect Option for any backyard party or potluck. Taste today and surprise all your friends and family with this surprising taste combination!
Bring the Comfort of Cracker Barrel to Your Table
Cracker Barrel hashbrown Casserole is the ultimate comfort food. Whether you’re trying to recreate the experience of eating at a restaurant or adding a new favorite to your repertoire of recipes, it’s guaranteed to please the crowd. The creamy, rich texture, cheesy potatoes topping, and various customizable options make it perfect for any event.
Test this recipe right now. Make sure to try your recipes. Send your creations to your family and friends, and add warm memories from Cracker Barrel to your table!
FAQs About Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes! To freeze, put the casserole in a baking dish, cover securely with foil, and store for 3 months or more. If you’re ready to cook, allow it to thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake the cake according to the directions.
What can I serve to accompany this dish?
This dish pairs well with barbecued meat chops, chicken, or roasting vegetables. It is also a tremendous separate breakfast casserole or brunch dish.
How do I make it healthier?
For a lighter option that is low in fat, you can opt for sour cream with a lower fat content or cheese with reduced fat, as well as a lighter cream soup alternative. Adding additional vegetables like zucchini or spinach can enhance the nutritional value.
How long can it keep in the refrigerator?
The leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Individual portions can be reheated in the microwave, or more significant portions can be baked at 300 degrees F (150 degrees C) until warm.
What allergens should I be aware of when eating Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole?
The classic recipe includes dairy (butter and sour cream cheese) and gluten (in the chicken’s creamy soup), as well as onions, which are commonly used as allergens. If you’re making the dish for someone who has dietary restrictions, you should consider utilizing dairy-free options and gluten-free cream soup.
What’s your “top secret” to making Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole at home?
The secret lies in the harmony of cheese and creamy ingredients. Use premium cheddar cheese, ensuring the hashbrowns are entirely frozen, and then baking them until golden and bubbly is crucial to recreate the famous texture and taste.
Cracker Barrel’s Hashbrown Casserole gluten-free?
The classic recipe isn’t gluten-free because the soup cream is made with chicken, which usually has wheat. For a gluten-free version, try using organic chicken soup or creating your own using rice flour or cornstarch to thicken it.
Can I mix eggs and bacon for a brunch-style hashbrowns casserole?
Absolutely! Cooked and crumbled bacon can be incorporated into the casserole to add flavor. To incorporate eggs, mix some eggs and pour them over the casserole evenly before baking. This will make a hearty breakfast meal that is ideal for early mornings.