Better Than Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole

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🥔 Better Than Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole

Description

This creamy, cheesy hashbrown casserole is the ultimate comfort food — warm, gooey, and perfectly crisp on top. It’s a family favorite for breakfasts, potlucks, holidays, or any time you want a crowd-pleasing dish that comes together easily.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

  • 2 pounds (32 oz) frozen shredded hashbrowns, thawed
  • ½ cup onion, finely diced
  • ½ cup (1 stick) butter, melted
  • 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup (or cream of mushroom for a vegetarian option)
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 ½ cups sour cream
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

Topping:

  • 2 cups crushed cornflakes or buttery cracker crumbs (like Ritz)
  • ¼ cup (4 tablespoons) butter, melted

Instructions

1. Prepare the Base

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed hashbrowns, diced onion, melted butter, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, cheddar cheese, and seasonings (salt, pepper, garlic powder).
  4. Mix well until everything is evenly coated.

2. Assemble the Casserole

  1. Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
  2. In a separate bowl, mix the crushed cornflakes (or crackers) with melted butter.
  3. Sprinkle the topping evenly over the hashbrown mixture.

3. Bake

  1. Bake uncovered for 45–50 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and crispy and the casserole is bubbly around the edges.
  2. Let it cool for 5–10 minutes before serving — this helps it set slightly and makes it easier to slice.

Optional Additions

  • Add Protein: Mix in 1–2 cups of cooked diced ham, bacon, or sausage for a heartier version.
  • Spicy Twist: Stir in a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce.
  • Cheese Swap: Try Monterey Jack, Colby, or a mix of cheeses for extra creaminess.
  • Vegetable Boost: Add diced bell peppers, spinach, or broccoli florets for color and nutrition.

Tips for Success

  1. Thaw the hashbrowns fully and pat dry with paper towels — this prevents sogginess.
  2. Don’t overmix — you want a creamy texture, not mashed potatoes.
  3. Cover loosely with foil halfway through baking if the topping browns too quickly.
  4. Let it rest before serving — it thickens slightly and holds together beautifully.
  5. Double the recipe for large gatherings — it reheats perfectly!

Nutritional Information (Per Serving — Approx. 10 servings)

NutrientAmount
Calories~340 kcal
Protein8 g
Total Fat26 g
Saturated Fat15 g
Carbohydrates21 g
Sugars2 g
Fiber1 g
Sodium520 mg
Cholesterol65 mg

(Approximate values; varies by brand and portion size.)

Conclusion

The Better Than Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole is everything you love about classic Southern comfort food — creamy, cheesy, and crunchy — with an extra layer of homemade richness. It’s perfect for brunches, holiday breakfasts, or as a savory dinner side. Once you make it from scratch, you’ll never go back to the restaurant version again!

Recommendation

  • Pair with: Scrambled eggs, ham, or roasted chicken.
  • Serve at: Breakfast buffets, potlucks, or family gatherings.
  • Make ahead: Assemble a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.

Embracing Healthful Indulgence

You can make this comforting dish a little lighter without losing its cozy flavor:

  • Use Greek yogurt in place of sour cream for extra protein.
  • Swap reduced-fat cheese or part-skim mozzarella for a leaner texture.
  • Replace some butter with olive oil or light cream cheese.
  • Add veggies for extra fiber and color — carrots, zucchini, or peas blend in beautifully.

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