Better Than Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole

Ingredients:

To make this incredible casserole, you’ll need:

32 ounces frozen shredded hash browns, thawed
½ cup melted butter
10.5 ounces condensed cream of chicken soup (or cream of cheddar for a vegetarian option)
16 ounces sour cream
½ cup finely diced onion
2 cups shredded Colby or cheddar cheese, divided
¼ teaspoon black pepper
Ingredient Substitutions & Variations
Swap out cream of chicken soup for cream of mushroom for a vegetarian version.
Try Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a healthier twist.
Add cooked bacon, ham, or sausage for extra protein.
Toss in chopped bell peppers or jalapeños for a little heat.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
Large mixing bowl
9×13-inch casserole dish
Measuring cups and spoons
Mixing spoon or spatula
Oven preheated to 350°F (175°

PREPARATION:

  1. Preheat & Prepare
    Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with butter or non-stick spray.
  2. Mix the Ingredients
    In a large bowl, combine the thawed hash browns, melted butter, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, diced onion, 1 ½ cups of shredded cheese, and black pepper. Stir until everything is well mixed.
  3. Assemble the Casserole
    Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared casserole dish. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheese over the top.
  4. Bake to Perfection
    Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the casserole is hot, bubbly, and the cheese is golden brown. Let it cool slightly before serving.

Tips for the Best Hashbrown Casserole
Thaw the hash browns completely before mixing to ensure even baking.
Use freshly shredded cheese rather than pre-shredded for a creamier texture.
Don’t overbake – the casserole should be golden brown but still creamy inside.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
Refrigeration
Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Instructions
Wrap the casserole tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
Freeze for up to 3 months.
To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes.
Reheating Tips
Microwave in 30-second increments for a quick fix.
Use an oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes to keep the crispiness.
Serving Suggestions
This hashbrown casserole pairs wonderfully with:

Crispy bacon or sausage for breakfast.
Grilled chicken or ham for a heartier meal.
A fresh green salad for a lighter pairing.
enjoy!

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