Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole is a beloved dish that brings comfort and warmth to any breakfast or brunch table. This creamy, cheesy casserole filled with hashbrowns is a staple at Cracker Barrel restaurants and has become a favorite among many who crave a hearty and indulgent dish. With its rich flavors and pleasing texture, it’s perfect for family gatherings, holiday brunches, or even as a side dish for dinner. The combination of flavors and ingredients makes this casserole not just filling but also incredibly satisfying.
Why We Love This Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole Recipe
There’s something irresistibly delightful about the Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole. First, it’s the ease of preparation. You don’t need to be a skilled chef to whip this up, making it accessible for everyone in the kitchen. Additionally, the comforting flavors of creamy cheese and buttery hashbrowns remind us of home. This dish is great for serving to a crowd because it is a great make-ahead option for breakfast or brunch. You can assemble it the night before and bake it in the morning. Plus, it’s unbelievably versatile; you can customize it with your favorite add-ins or pair it with a range of main dishes. Each bite of this casserole gives you a warm hug, making it a must-try for any occasion.
Ingredients about Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole
To create this delightful casserole, you’ll need a handful of ingredients. Each component plays a significant role in delivering that classic taste that makes this dish so appealing. Here’s what you’ll require:
- 30-32 ounces frozen hashbrowns (thawed)
- ½ cup butter (melted)
- 1 teaspoon bouillon (chicken, mushroom, or vegetable – optional)
- 1 medium onion (chopped finely)
- 2 cups sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt)
- 2-3 cups shredded cheese (such as Colby Jack or sharp cheddar, and reserve ½-1 cup for topping)
- 1-2 teaspoons kosher salt (to taste)
- ¼-½ teaspoon black pepper
How to Make Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole Directions
Making the Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole is a straightforward process that anyone can follow. First, ensure your hashbrowns are completely thawed; this will help them cook evenly and achieve a perfect texture.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the casserole starts cooking immediately upon being placed in the oven, allowing for that perfect golden brown top. In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter and chopped onion. Sauté the onion until it becomes translucent and fragrant. This usually takes about 5 minutes, and it helps build a flavor base for the casserole.
Once your onion is ready, incorporate the thawed hashbrowns into the bowl. Add in the sour cream, half of your cheese, salt, and black pepper. Stir carefully but thoroughly to ensure that all the ingredients are evenly mixed, creating a creamy filling with a comforting blend of flavors.
Now, take a 9×13-inch baking dish and grease it with a bit of butter or cooking spray. This will help prevent the casserole from sticking and make cleanup a breeze. Pour the hashbrown mixture into the greased dish, making sure to spread it out evenly with a spatula.
To finish up, sprinkle the remaining cheese on top, giving your casserole that desirable cheesy crust when baked. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and let it bake for about 45 minutes. You’ll want to keep an eye on it until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbly. When the time is up, take the casserole out of the oven and let it cool slightly for about 10 minutes before serving. This cooling time allows the flavors to set and makes it easier to slice.
How to Serve Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole
When it comes to serving your Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole, the possibilities are endless. Depending on the occasion, this dish pairs well with various sides and main courses. Serve it as a part of a luxurious brunch table alongside scrambled eggs and fresh fruit for a delightful morning spread. You can also offer it with a range of breakfast meats, like chicken sausage, for those who enjoy a heartier meal.
Additionally, this casserole can be a comforting side at dinner. It complements roasted chicken or grilled meats perfectly. If you’re hosting a gathering or holiday celebration, consider slicing the casserole into squares and serving them on a buffet-style table. This way, guests can help themselves to this creamy, cheesy delight while exploring other dishes. You can always garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color and an added freshness.
Expert Tips: Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole
To achieve the best results with your Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole, keep these expert tips in mind. First, ensure that your hashbrowns are completely thawed. If you’re short on time, using the microwave to speed up the thawing process is acceptable, but be cautious not to cook them.
Use fresh ingredients wherever possible. Fresh onions provide a more robust flavor compared to pre-packaged versions. When selecting cheese, opt for a blend that melts well; Colby Jack and sharp cheddar are ideal choices, bringing rich flavors and creating that gooey texture you desire.
Don’t hesitate to introduce your personal touch! Feel free to mix in vegetables like bell peppers or sautéed mushrooms for added taste. You can also vary the type of cheese—Monterey Jack or pepper jack could provide a spicier kick. If you’re looking for a more substantial dish, consider adding cooked chicken or turkey to the mix for a complete meal.
Finally, keep an eye on the baking time, as ovens can vary. If the top is browning too quickly but the center isn’t cooked, cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning while allowing the inside to bake through.
How to Store Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole
If you find yourself with leftovers (which is rare because it’s so delicious), storing your Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole is simple. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. You can also cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil if you prefer to keep it in the same baking dish.
This casserole can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days. When you’re ready to reheat it, you can warm individual portions in the microwave, or for larger amounts, place it back into the oven at about 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
For longer storage, consider freezing the casserole. After baking, allow it to cool, then wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. You can freeze it for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat as mentioned above.
Variation of Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole
The beauty of Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole lies in its adaptability. You can easily make variations based on your preferences or what you have on hand. For example, if you’re looking to incorporate vegetables, try adding chopped broccoli, spinach, or diced bell peppers into the hashbrown mixture. These additions not only enhance the nutritional value but also add a splash of color.
If you’re a fan of spice, don’t hesitate to mix in some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper into the mixture for an added kick. Alternatively, consider swapping out some of the cheese for a more robust variety such as pepper jack or gouda, which can bring a different layer of flavor to the casserole.
For a twist on texture, try adding crushed cornflakes or breadcrumbs on top of the cheese layer just before baking. This will create a crunchy topping that adds another dimension to every bite. You can also experiment with different sour cream alternatives, such as cream cheese or Greek yogurt, to achieve a slightly tangy flavor and different creaminess.
FAQ
What is Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole?
Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole is a popular dish made with hashbrowns, cheese, and sour cream, baked until golden and bubbly.
Can I make Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole the night before, keep it in the refrigerator, and bake it in the morning.
How long do I need to bake the casserole?
You should bake the casserole for about 45 minutes at 350°F (175°C), or until the top is golden brown.
What can I serve with Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole?
This casserole pairs well with eggs, fresh fruit, roasted meats, or even as part of a breakfast buffet.
Can I freeze Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole after baking. Wrap it tightly and store it for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 30-32 ounces frozen hashbrowns (thawed) Ensure they are completely thawed.
- ½ cup butter (melted) Used for sautéing onions.
- 1 teaspoon bouillon (chicken, mushroom, or vegetable – optional) Enhances flavor.
- 1 medium onion (chopped finely) Provides flavor base.
- 2 cups sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt) Creates creaminess.
- 2-3 cups shredded cheese (such as Colby Jack or sharp cheddar) Reserve ½-1 cup for topping.
- 1-2 teaspoons kosher salt (to taste)
- ¼-½ teaspoon black pepper To taste.
Instructions
Preparation
- Ensure your hashbrowns are completely thawed.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter and chopped onion. Sauté the onion until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Incorporate the thawed hashbrowns, sour cream, half of your cheese, salt, and black pepper. Stir until thoroughly mixed.
- Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish. Pour the hashbrown mixture into the dish and spread evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
- Bake for about 45 minutes, until the top is golden brown and edges are bubbly.
- Let the casserole cool for about 10 minutes before serving.
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