Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole

This Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole is a crowd-pleaser that brings comfort food right to your table. It’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any gathering where delicious, hearty food is welcome. With its creamy texture and cheesy goodness, this dish stands out as a favorite among hash brown recipes. Easy to prepare and full of flavor, it’s sure to become a staple in your cooking repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe takes only 15 minutes of prep time, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: Packed with cheddar cheese and savory ingredients, this casserole is loved by both kids and adults.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a side with breakfast, lunch, or dinner; it fits perfectly into any meal plan.
• Freezer-Friendly: Make it ahead of time and freeze for a quick dinner option on those hectic days.
• Simple Ingredients: Made with easy-to-find ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather the necessary tools to make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Baking pan (9×11 inch)
• Non-stick cooking spray
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: Essential for combining all the ingredients evenly without spills.
• Baking pan: The right size guarantees even cooking and the perfect texture for your casserole.
• Non-stick cooking spray: Prevents sticking, ensuring easy serving and clean-up after baking.

Ingredients

For the Casserole

• 1 bag (30 oz) frozen hash browns, thawed
• 8 tbsp (1 stick) butter, melted
• 1 can (10 ¾ 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 your casserole cooks evenly throughout.

Step 2: Prepare the Mixture

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Combine the chopped onion, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper.
2. Add in the sour cream and condensed cream of chicken soup. Mix well until everything is combined.
3. Fold in the thawed hash browns and melted butter until fully incorporated.

Step 3: Transfer to Baking Pan

1. Grease your 9×11 inch baking pan with non-stick cooking spray.
2. Spoon the hash brown mixture into the pan, spreading it evenly across the surface.
3. Sprinkle the remaining cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top.

Step 4: Bake the Casserole

Place the baking pan in the preheated oven. Bake for 45 to 60 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly. Make sure to check for doneness by inserting a knife into the center; it should come out clean.

This Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole serves six people and is ready in just over an hour! Enjoy this comforting dish at your next meal!

How to Serve Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole

This delightful Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole is a versatile dish that can complement any meal. Here are some great serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

Breakfast Delight

• Pair with scrambled eggs for a hearty breakfast that keeps you full all morning.
• Serve alongside crispy bacon to add a savory crunch.

Family Dinner

• Accompany with grilled chicken for a satisfying family meal.
• Pair with a fresh garden salad to balance the richness of the casserole.

Potluck Perfection

• Bring it along to potlucks; everyone loves this comforting side dish.
• Serve in individual portions for easy sharing with friends and family.

Holiday Gatherings

• This casserole is perfect for special occasions, like Thanksgiving or Christmas.
• Offer it as a side dish with glazed ham for a festive feast.

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How to Perfect Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole

Achieving the ideal Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole involves some simple tips. Follow these guidelines for the best results.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh cheese and onions will elevate the flavor of your casserole.
• Don’t skip the butter: It adds richness and ensures that your hash browns get crispy on top.
• Adjust seasoning: Feel free to add garlic powder or herbs for an extra layer of flavor.
• Let it rest: Allowing the casserole to sit for about 10 minutes after baking helps it set up nicely.

Best Side Dishes for Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole

When planning your meal, consider pairing your Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole with these delicious side dishes. They will complement its flavors perfectly.

1. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned and grilled, these veggies add a fresh contrast.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy and caramelized, they bring a nutty flavor to the table.
3. Corn on the Cob: Sweet and juicy, corn makes a delightful summer addition.
4. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and balances the creaminess of the casserole.
5. Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up any leftover creamy goodness from your plate.
6. Baked Beans: A sweet and savory option that pairs well with cheesy casseroles.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing this Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Using frozen hash browns without thawing: Make sure to thaw your hash browns before mixing them in. This helps achieve the right texture in your casserole.
• Not greasing the baking pan: Always grease your baking pan properly. This prevents the casserole from sticking and makes for easier serving.
• Overbaking the casserole: Keep an eye on your casserole as it bakes. Overbaking can lead to dry hash browns instead of a creamy texture.
• Skipping salt and pepper: Don’t forget to season your mixture with salt and pepper. These ingredients enhance the flavors and make the dish more enjoyable.
• Using low-quality cheese: Opt for high-quality cheddar cheese for the best taste. Cheddar adds creaminess and richness that complements the dish perfectly.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3-5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole

• Freeze the casserole in a tightly sealed container or freezer bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Cover the casserole with foil and bake for about 20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power for 3-5 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about this delightful casserole:

How can I customize my Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole?

You can add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for added flavor. You might also consider using different types of cheese for variety.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare it a day ahead and store it in the fridge before baking. Just remember to add extra baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.

What type of cheese works best?

Cheddar cheese is traditional, but you can experiment with Monterey Jack or Colby Jack for different flavors.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! As long as you use gluten-free cream of chicken soup, this Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole is gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

This Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole is not just comforting but also incredibly versatile. With its cheesy goodness and hearty ingredients, it makes an excellent side dish or even a main course. Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or cheeses. Give this recipe a try; it’s bound to become a family favorite!