Ultimate Homemade Hashbrown Recipe

Are you ready to take your brunch game to the next level? Look no further than this recipe for Better Than Cracker Barrel Hashbrown casserole. Creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying, this dish has all the comfort and flavor you crave in a classic breakfast favorite. With a golden bubbly top and a crunchy cornflake topping, this casserole is a surefire way to bring everyone to the table.

This hashbrown casserole holds a special place in my heart, as it has been a staple at countless family gatherings and potlucks. The rich, melty cheddar cheese steals the show in this dish, making it a true crowd-pleaser every time. Whether you’re serving it alongside scrambled eggs and buttermilk biscuits for brunch or as a hearty dinner with a side salad, this casserole is versatile and always a hit.

Make-ahead friendly and freezer-friendly, this Better Than Cracker Barrel Hashbrown casserole is a convenient option for busy mornings or to have on hand for unexpected guests. With simple swaps like using Greek yogurt instead of sour cream or opting for a vegetarian cream soup, you can customize this dish to suit your preferences. Get ready to create a dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds and leaving no crumb behind!

Quick Benefits

• Convenient make-ahead dish perfect for potlucks and family gatherings
• Versatile recipe with options for ingredient substitutions to suit dietary preferences
• Can be frozen and reheated, making it a great option for meal prep
• Crowd-pleasing comfort food that always leaves guests satisfied

Why You’ll Love This Ultimate Homemade Hashbrown Recipe Recipe

• Comfort Dish Favorite: This creamy cheesy hashbrown casserole is the epitome of comfort food that brings a sense of homey satisfaction with every bite.
• Crowd Pleaser: Whether serving at a family brunch, potluck, or holiday breakfast, this casserole is guaranteed to be a hit and will disappear quickly.
• Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe to your dietary preferences by using Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, swapping cream of chicken soup with mushroom or celery soup, or opting for a vegetarian version with vegetable soup.
• Make-ahead Convenience: Prepare this casserole in advance, refrigerate, and bake it right before serving. It’s a great dish for busy mornings or when hosting a gathering.
• Versatile Options: Serve this casserole as a brunch side dish with scrambled eggs, fruit salad, and biscuits, or as a hearty dinner alongside a salad or roasted veggies. It can be the star of the meal with bacon and sliced tomatoes on the side.
• Freezer-Friendly: This recipe is perfect for batch cooking. Freeze assembled casseroles before baking for a quick meal option later. It also reheats well for leftovers.
• Nostalgic Appeal: With its classic American comfort food origins, this casserole brings a touch of vintage charm to your table. It’s a beloved dish at various gatherings and celebrations.

Ingredients for Ultimate Homemade Hashbrown Recipe

Main Components

• 2 pounds frozen hashbrowns
• 1/2 cup diced onion
• 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of chicken soup
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided

Topping

• 1 cup crushed cornflakes

Pro Tips for Ultimate Homemade Hashbrown Recipe

Pro tip: To save time and ensure even mixing, use frozen shredded hashbrowns that have been allowed to thaw slightly before incorporating them into the casserole mixture. This will make the preparation process smoother.

Pro tip: For a twist on the classic recipe, consider using cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup as a substitute for the cream of chicken soup. This swap will maintain the creamy texture and add a different flavor dimension to the dish.

Pro tip: Make meal planning easier by assembling the casserole ahead of time, refrigerating it, and baking it just before serving. This way, you can enjoy a delicious and comforting dish with minimal last-minute effort.

How to Make Ultimate Homemade Hashbrown Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Dish

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray or butter.

Step 2: Combine Potato Mixture

Combine frozen hashbrowns, diced onion, melted butter, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, kosher salt, and black pepper in a large mixing bowl. Mix until well combined.

Step 3: Arrange in Baking Dish

Spread the potato mixture evenly in the baking dish and press gently to distribute.

Step 4: Apply Cornflake Topping

Sprinkle the crushed cornflakes on top of the hashbrowns for a crispy topping.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden

Place the dish in the oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes, until the casserole is bubbly and golden brown.

Step 6: Add Cheese Finishing Layer

Take the casserole out of the oven and sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Bake for another 5 to 10 minutes until the cheese is melted.

Step 7: Rest and Serve

Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before cutting and serving warm.

Storage Tips

Once the Better Than Cracker Barrel Hashbrown casserole is cooked and cooled, it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days. Make sure to cover it tightly to maintain freshness. When reheating, it’s recommended to slice the casserole and warm it in the oven uncovered. This method helps retain the crispy texture of the topping.

For longer storage, you can freeze the casserole for up to two months. Cut cooled portions, tightly wrap them, and store in the freezer. When ready to enjoy, thaw the portions overnight in the refrigerator and reheat at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until heated through. Freezing the casserole is a great option for meal prep or saving leftovers for future meals, ensuring you can enjoy this comforting dish whenever you crave it.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you’re looking to make this hashbrown casserole a bit healthier, consider swapping the sour cream for plain Greek yogurt. This substitution reduces the fat content while still maintaining a creamy texture with a subtle tang. Additionally, if you prefer not to use cream of chicken soup, you can easily substitute it with cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup to achieve a similar creamy consistency and flavor balance.

For a vegetarian version of this comforting casserole, opt for vegetable soup instead of cream of chicken soup. This simple switch allows you to enjoy a meat-free dish without compromising the overall creaminess and deliciousness of the casserole. To add a twist to the classic flavor profile, experiment with Monterey Jack cheese as a flavorful alternative to cheddar. These substitutions offer versatility and allow you to customize the dish to suit your dietary preferences and taste preferences.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative twist on serving this Better Than Cracker Barrel Hashbrown casserole, consider layering individual servings in mason jars for a charming and portable brunch option. Start with a base of creamy hashbrowns, followed by a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese, and repeat the layers until the jar is filled. Top it off with a generous layer of crushed cornflakes for that irresistible crunch. Seal the jars and bake them just before serving for a unique and visually appealing presentation that will surely impress your guests.

Another fun serving suggestion is to transform this classic casserole into mini hashbrown muffins by spooning the mixture into greased muffin tins. Bake until golden and bubbly, then serve these individual portions as a delightful finger food option at brunch gatherings or potlucks. The muffin-sized servings make it easy for guests to grab and enjoy, creating a fun and interactive dining experience that everyone will love.

FAQs for Ultimate Homemade Hashbrown Recipe

Can I substitute the sour cream with something else?

Yes, you can swap sour cream with plain Greek yogurt for a lighter option and a hint of tanginess in the casserole.

Can I use a different type of soup instead of cream of chicken?

Absolutely, you can use cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup as alternatives to achieve a similarly creamy texture and flavor balance.

Is it possible to assemble the casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare and assemble the casserole in advance, store it in the refrigerator, and bake it right before serving for added convenience.

What can I use as a substitute for crushed cornflakes in the topping?

If you don’t have cornflakes on hand, you can use crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs as delicious alternatives to achieve a crunchy finish for the casserole.

Conclusion

As you set out to recreate this beloved classic dish, remember that creating memories around the table is just as important as the food itself. The Better Than Cracker Barrel Hashbrown casserole is a surefire way to bring your loved ones together over a delicious and comforting meal.

Whether you’re hosting a family brunch, a holiday gathering, or simply craving a taste of home, this casserole is bound to be a hit. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to savor every bite of this Better Than Cracker Barrel Hashbrown casserole. Your taste buds (and your guests) will thank you for it!