Copycat Cracker Barrel Hash Brown Casserole Recipe

Shredded hash browns: These are the base of the casserole, providing a hearty and starchy foundation.

Sour cream: Adds a tangy creaminess that balances the flavors.

Cream of chicken soup: Offers a rich, savory flavor and creamy texture.

Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into the casserole, adding cheesy goodness.

Onion: Provides a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor.

Salt: Enhances the overall taste of the dish.

Black pepper: Adds a hint of spice and warmth.

Melted butter: Contributes richness and helps bind the ingredients together.

To achieve a perfectly creamy and flavorful hash brown casserole, ensure that your shredded hash browns are fully thawed and patted dry before mixing them with the other ingredients. This prevents excess moisture from diluting the sour cream and cream of chicken soup, allowing the casserole to bake evenly and develop a rich, golden crust. Additionally, for an extra depth of flavor, consider sautéing the onion in a bit of the melted butter until translucent before adding it to the mixture. This step enhances the sweetness and aroma of the onion, complementing the savory elements of the dish.

• Shredded hash browns - Substitute with diced potatoes: Diced potatoes provide a similar texture and can be used if you prefer a chunkier consistency.

• Sour cream - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt offers a similar tangy flavor and creamy texture while being lower in fat.

• Cream of chicken soup - Substitute with cream of mushroom soup: Cream of mushroom soup can add a different but complementary flavor to the casserole.

• Shredded cheddar cheese - Substitute with Monterey Jack cheese: Monterey Jack melts well and has a mild flavor that works well in casseroles.

• Onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots provide a milder onion flavor and can add a subtle sweetness to the dish.

• Salt - Substitute with garlic salt: Garlic salt adds a hint of garlic flavor while still providing the necessary saltiness.

• Black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a slightly different flavor profile and can be used for a more subtle heat.

• Melted butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can be used for a healthier fat option and adds a distinct flavor to the casserole.

• Allow the hash brown casserole to cool completely at room temperature before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the casserole soggy.

• For short-term storage, transfer the casserole into an airtight container or cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

• If you plan to freeze the casserole, portion it into individual servings. This makes it easier to reheat only what you need, reducing waste and ensuring even reheating.

• Wrap each portion tightly with plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date to keep track of its freshness. The casserole can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

• When ready to enjoy, thaw the frozen portions in the refrigerator overnight. This gradual thawing helps maintain the texture and flavor of the casserole.

• Reheat the thawed casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. Cover with foil to prevent over-browning, removing it for the last few minutes if you prefer a crispy top.

• Alternatively, you can reheat individual portions in the microwave. Place the portion on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a microwave-safe lid or damp paper towel, and heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals until hot.

• For an extra burst of flavor, sprinkle a little more shredded cheddar cheese on top before reheating. This adds a fresh, cheesy layer that enhances the dish's appeal.

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover hash brown casserole in an oven-safe dish. Cover it with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. Heat for about 20-25 minutes or until it's warmed through and the cheese is melty and bubbly.

• For a quicker option, use the microwave. Transfer a portion of the casserole to a microwave-safe plate. Cover it with a microwave-safe lid or another plate to retain moisture. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure even heating.

• If you're a fan of crispy edges, try reheating in a skillet. Add a small amount of butter or olive oil to a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Place a portion of the casserole in the skillet and cover with a lid. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, flipping once, until it's heated through and has a nice crispy bottom.

• For those with an air fryer, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in the air fryer basket, ensuring it's in a single layer. Heat for 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until it's hot and the top is slightly crispy.

• If you have a toaster oven, it's a great tool for reheating. Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and place the casserole on a baking sheet. Cover with foil and heat for 15-20 minutes, removing the foil for the last 5 minutes to crisp up the top.

• Oven: Used to bake the casserole at a consistent temperature of 350°F (175°C) until it is golden brown and bubbly.

• Large mixing bowl: Essential for combining all the ingredients like hash browns, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, cheese, onion, salt, pepper, and melted butter.

• Spatula: Handy for stirring the ingredients together and ensuring they are well combined.

• Baking dish: A greased dish where the mixture is transferred to be baked evenly.

• Measuring cups: Used to accurately measure the quantities of ingredients like hash browns, sour cream, and cheese.

• Measuring spoons: Useful for measuring smaller quantities of ingredients such as salt and black pepper.

• Knife: Necessary for finely chopping the onion.

• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping the onion.

• Oven mitts: Important for safely handling the hot baking dish when removing it from the oven.

Use pre-shredded hash browns: Save time by opting for pre-shredded hash browns instead of shredding them yourself.

Chop onions in advance: Finely chop the onion ahead of time and store it in the fridge to streamline preparation.

Melt butter in microwave: Quickly melt the butter in the microwave instead of using a stovetop.

Mix in one bowl: Combine all ingredients in a single mixing bowl to minimize cleanup.

Use non-stick spray: Apply non-stick spray to the baking dish for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.