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Crispy Creamy Cracker Barrel Hash Brown Casserole

cracker barrel hash brown casserole - featured image

A nostalgic, creamy, cheesy, and crispy hash brown casserole perfect for family breakfasts, potlucks, and holidays. Easy to prepare with simple ingredients and customizable for various dietary needs.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 30 ounces (850 grams) frozen shredded hash browns
  • 2 cups (200 grams) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup (240 ml) sour cream, full-fat recommended
  • 1 can (10.5 ounces / 298 grams) cream of chicken soup (or cream of mushroom for vegetarian)
  • 4 tablespoons (57 grams) unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste (about 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper)
  • Optional: 1 cup (30 grams) crushed cornflakes or breadcrumbs for topping

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Slightly thaw the frozen shredded hash browns just enough to break apart clumps but not fully melted.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and melted unsalted butter until smooth and creamy.
  4. Add onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the mixture and mix well.
  5. Fold in the shredded hash browns and shredded sharp cheddar cheese until everything is evenly coated.
  6. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) baking dish and spread evenly.
  7. If using, sprinkle crushed cornflakes or breadcrumbs over the top for extra crispiness.
  8. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 to 55 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top. If the topping browns too quickly, tent loosely with foil after 40 minutes.
  9. Let the casserole rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving to set.

Notes

Do not over-thaw hash browns to avoid sogginess. Freshly shred cheese for better melting. Use room temperature sour cream and butter for smooth mixing. Taste before adding extra salt due to salty soup base. For extra crispiness, broil for last 2-3 minutes watching closely. Let casserole rest before serving to firm up.

Nutrition

Keywords: hash brown casserole, cheesy casserole, Cracker Barrel style, comfort food, easy casserole, breakfast casserole, potluck recipe