Cracker Barrel Hashbrown casserole
This recipe creates a classic, comforting Cracker Barrel-style hashbrown casserole, featuring frozen hash browns blended with sour cream, cream of chicken soup, butter, onion, and cheddar cheese. Baked until golden and bubbly, it's a rich and savory side dish perfect for any meal.
Equipment
- 1 Large Mixing Bowl
- 1 9x13 inch Baking Dish or equivalent casserole dish
- 1 Chef's knife for chopping onion
- 1 Cutting Board
- 1 Small Saucepan for melting butter and sautéing onion
Ingredients
Main
- 1 2 lb. pkg. frozen Hash Browns
- 8 oz. Sour cream
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1 stick butter
- 1/2 C. Chopped onion
- 2 C. grated Cheddar Cheese
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Ensure frozen hash browns are fully thawed and drained of excess moisture.
- Finely chop the onion.
- In a small saucepan, melt the stick of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed hash browns, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, and half of the grated cheddar cheese.
- Pour the melted butter and sautéed onion mixture into the hash brown mixture. Mix all ingredients thoroughly until well combined.
- Transfer the entire mixture evenly into a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle the remaining grated cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole.
- Bake, uncovered, for 45-60 minutes, or until the casserole is golden brown and bubbly around the edges.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Notes
1. For best results, ensure your hash browns are fully thawed and patted dry before mixing. This prevents a watery casserole and promotes a crisper texture.2. Sautéing the chopped onion in the butter before adding it to the mixture softens it and deepens its flavor, preventing raw onion bite. Consider caramelizing it slightly for an even richer undertone.3. While cheddar is traditional, a blend of cheeses like Gruyere or Monterey Jack can add complexity. Always grate cheese fresh for superior melt and texture.4. A sprinkle of paprika or a touch of cayenne pepper can elevate the flavor profile, adding a subtle warmth and color.5. Rest the casserole for 5-10 minutes after baking. This allows the internal structure to set, making it easier to serve cleanly.