Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole Recipe

Unlocking the Secrets of Cracker Barrel’s Hashbrown Casserole

The Quest for the Ultimate Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole

Hey there! I’m about to embark on a culinary adventure, and you’re invited to join me. You know, there’s something about trying to recreate that much-loved Cracker Barrel hashbrown casserole at home that just sets my heart aflutter. Picture this: a creamy, cheesy casserole that’s a perfect embodiment of comfort food, right from the comfort of our kitchen. I stumbled upon a recipe that’s so close to the real deal, it’s uncanny. It’s as if one of the cooks from Cracker Barrel sneaked it out just for us. The thought of bringing such an iconic dish into our homes, to enjoy whenever we want, is downright exciting!

Now, I’ve got to be upfront with you. This isn’t one of those light, “good for your waistline” types of meals. We’re talking about a casserole laden with cream, butter, and all that cheesy goodness. But isn’t life too short to not indulge in something as delicious as this? Every now and then, giving in to such a delectable temptation is not just okay, it’s necessary. So, let’s dive into this indulgence together, shall we?

Key Takeaways:

• Embarking on a Culinary Adventure: Trying our hand at replicating the iconic Cracker Barrel hashbrown casserole recipe at home.
• Authentic Recipe Excitement: Discovering a recipe that closely matches the original adds an exciting twist to our cooking journey.
• Indulgence Over Health: Acknowledging that while this creamy, cheesy casserole might not be the healthiest option, it’s a delicious treat worth enjoying occasionally.

Gathering Your Ingredients

Hey there, fellow food enthusiasts! Today, I’m thrilled to share with you the essential ingredients required to recreate the iconic Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole from the comfort of your home. With a wink and a nod toward simplicity, let’s gather our pantry staples and dive deep into the culinary adventure that awaits us. Every ingredient here plays a pivotal role in achieving that rich, indulgent taste we all crave from a hearty casserole:

• 2 pounds frozen hashbrowns – the star of the show, bringing the comforting, hearty texture.
• 2 cups sour cream – for that tangy, creamy richness.
• 1/2 cup butter, melted – because everything’s better with butter.
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup – adding depth and creaminess to our base.
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese – the melty, gooey heart of this dish.
• 1/2 small onion, finely diced – a touch of sharpness to balance the richness.
• 1/2 teaspoon each of kosher salt and ground black pepper – because what’s a dish without its seasoning salt?
• 2 cups cornflakes, crushed – for that irresistible crispy topping.
• 1/4 cup melted butter – to bind our crunchy topping together.

Each of these ingredients, easily found in your pantry or the nearest grocery store, come together to create a symphony of flavors that is the Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole. Get ready to indulge in one of the best casserole experiences right at home!

Tools For This Recipe

• 9×13 Baking Dish – The perfect vessel for our creamy creation
• Large Mixing Bowl – For combining all our delicious ingredients
• Measuring Cups and Spoons – Precision makes perfect casseroles

The Cooking Process Unveiled

Oh, the joy of replicating that creamy delight from Cracker Barrel right in your cozy kitchen! Here’s how to bring the Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole recipe to life – step by precious step. You’ll need your large mixing bowl and a fervent love for all things hearty and warming. First, preheat your oven to 350°F, setting the stage for the magic that’s about to happen. This step is the cornerstone for creating that golden, bubbly masterpiece we all love.

Next, in your large bowl, combine the thawed hashbrowns with sour cream, melted butter, cream of chicken soup, shredded cheddar cheese, diced onions, salt, and pepper. It’s all about building that rich base, imbuing every forkful with depth and character. Now, while the magic starts to unfold in your mixing bowl, take a moment to grease your 9×13 baking dish. This ensures our casserole releases beautifully after baking. Spread the hashbrown mixture evenly into your prepared dish, smoothing the top with a spatula.

For the crowning glory, mix your crushed cornflakes with melted butter in a small bowl until every flake is coated. Sprinkle this golden mixture evenly across the top of your casserole. Now comes the hardest part – waiting! Slide your dish into the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling with cheesy perfection. It’s about more than just following steps; it’s about the dance of flavors, textures, and love coming together in a casserole dish.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Now we arrive at what I consider the crowning glory of our Cracker Barrel hashbrown casserole adventure – the serving suggestions! As I scoop this golden beauty onto plates, I can’t help but smile knowing that this versatile dish pairs perfectly with so many meals. Serving, you see, is not just about getting food on the table. It’s an invitation to add a personal touch, to play with pairings and presentations. Imagine serving this alongside perfectly grilled steaks, or pairing it with crispy bacon and scrambled eggs for an unforgettable breakfast spread.

• Don’t shy away from adding chopped ham or crispy bacon directly into the casserole for a protein boost,
• Or let’s go wild with different cheese blends – try pepper jack for a spicy kick,
• And why not experiment with the topping? Crushed potato chips or French fried onions work beautifully too!

Every scoop served is an opportunity to showcase creativity and to indulge in the joy of sharing a meal that looks as good as it tastes. So, grab those serving spoons, let’s create variations that speak to your family’s tastes, and watch as a simple hashbrown casserole transforms into a dish that promises comfort and invites conversation at the dinner table.

As you present this beautiful creation, your loved ones will be drawn in by the irresistible flavors and eye-catching golden top.

A Toast to Indulgence

Sometimes, it’s perfectly okay to leave the calorie counter in the drawer and just indulge in the rich, velvety comfort of Cracker Barrel’s Hashbrown Casserole. Let’s savor the flavors, together indulging in this hearty casserole that warms the soul.

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CRACKER BARREL HASHBROWN CASSEROLE

Ingredients

• 2 pounds frozen hashbrowns, thawed
• 2 cups sour cream
• 1/2 cup butter, melted
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 small onion, finely diced
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 2 cups cornflakes, crushed
• 1/4 cup butter, melted (for topping)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and generously grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed hashbrowns, sour cream, 1/2 cup melted butter, cream of chicken soup, shredded cheddar cheese, diced onion, salt, and pepper. Stir until all ingredients are thoroughly combined and the hashbrowns are evenly coated.
3. Spread the hashbrown mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish, using a spatula to smooth the top and ensure even cooking.
4. In a separate small bowl, combine the crushed cornflakes with 1/4 cup melted butter, stirring until the cornflakes are evenly coated. This will create that signature crunchy, golden topping.
5. Sprinkle the buttered cornflake mixture evenly across the top of the casserole, covering the entire surface for maximum crunch.
6. Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling. The casserole should be heated through completely.
7. Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the casserole to set slightly, making it easier to serve.
8. Scoop generous portions onto plates and enjoy this comforting side dish alongside your favorite main courses. The combination of creamy hashbrowns and crunchy topping is absolutely irresistible!

Tips for Success

Make-Ahead Magic: You can assemble this casserole the night before and refrigerate it covered. Just add 10-15 extra minutes to the baking time if you’re putting it in the oven straight from the fridge.

Freezer-Friendly: This casserole freezes beautifully! Prepare it completely but don’t bake it. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed.

Cheese Variations: While cheddar is classic, feel free to experiment with different cheese blends. A combination of cheddar and Monterey Jack creates a creamier texture, while adding some Parmesan to the cornflake topping brings extra savory notes.

Extra Creamy Option: For an even richer casserole, substitute half of the sour cream with cream cheese. Beat the cream cheese until smooth before mixing it with the other ingredients.

Customization Ideas: This recipe is wonderfully versatile. Try adding cooked, crumbled bacon, diced ham, or sautéed mushrooms to the hashbrown mixture for extra flavor and heartiness.

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Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 10-12 servings

This Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole is pure comfort food at its finest. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday breakfast, Sunday brunch, or as a side dish for dinner, it’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser that disappears quickly. The creamy, cheesy interior paired with the crispy, buttery cornflake topping creates the perfect textural contrast that keeps everyone coming back for seconds. Happy cooking!