Indulge in Comfort: Cracker Barrel’s Hash Brown Casserole Recipe
Craving the comforting flavors of home? Look no further than Cracker Barrel’s Hash Brown Casserole! This iconic dish combines the goodness of creamy hash browns, melted butter, and savory soup for a mouthwatering experience that’s sure to warm your soul. Recreating this classic favorite at home is easier than you think, so let’s dive into the recipe and bring a taste of nostalgia to your kitchen.
Ingredients:
- 32 oz. frozen hash browns, thawed
- 1 stick (1/2 cup) butter, melted
- 10.5 oz. cream of chicken soup (cream of cheddar works too)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups crushed cornflakes
- 1/4 cup butter, melted (for topping)
Instructions:
- Preheat and Prepare:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray.
- Mix and Combine:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed hash browns, melted butter, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, chopped onion, shredded cheddar cheese, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Layer and Spread:
- Spread the hash brown mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Crunchy Topping:
- In a separate bowl, mix the crushed cornflakes with the remaining melted butter until well coated.
- Sprinkle the cornflake mixture evenly over the top of the hash brown mixture in the baking dish.
- Bake to Perfection:
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve hot and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness of Cracker Barrel’s Hash Brown Casserole!
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Customize the Cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese for added flavor. Try substituting the sharp cheddar with Monterey Jack, Swiss, or Colby cheese.
- Add Some Heat: For a spicy kick, mix in chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the hash brown mixture.
- Vegetarian Twist: Make this dish vegetarian-friendly by using cream of mushroom soup instead of cream of chicken.
- Gluten-Free Option: Swap out the crushed cornflakes for crushed gluten-free crackers or breadcrumbs to make this casserole gluten-free.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Keto Version: To make a keto-friendly version of this casserole, replace the hash browns with cauliflower rice or shredded turnips. Use a low-carb cream soup alternative and skip the cornflakes topping altogether.
- Low-Carb Version: Reduce the carb content by using a lower-carb cream soup option and cutting back on the amount of onion used in the recipe. You can also omit the cornflakes topping or use a smaller amount for a lighter crunch.
Cracker Barrel’s Hash Brown Casserole is a beloved classic that never fails to satisfy. With its creamy texture, cheesy goodness, and irresistible crunch, it’s a dish that brings joy to any mealtime gathering. Whether you’re serving it up for brunch, dinner, or a potluck feast, this casserole is sure to be a hit with family and friends.
So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to experience the comfort and nostalgia of Cracker Barrel’s Hash Brown Casserole in the comfort of your own kitchen. With its simple preparation and delicious flavors, it’s a recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy every savory bite!
