There’s something about cheesy hashbrown casserole that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. It’s like a cozy sweater—comforting and familiar, yet somehow always exciting. I remember making it for the first time during last winter’s snowstorm—my kitchen was filled with the aroma of cheese and potatoes mingling harmoniously, and it was love at first bite.
Steps
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine thawed frozen hashbrowns with melted butter, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, finely diced onion, 1 ½ cups of shredded cheese, and black pepper.
- Evenly spread the mixture into the prepared casserole dish, ensuring it is smooth and level.
- Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheese over the top of the casserole for a cheesy finish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes until the casserole is hot, bubbly, and golden brown on top.
Ingredients
- 32 ounces frozen shredded hash browns, thawed
- ½ cup melted butter
- 10.5 ounces condensed cream of chicken soup (or cream of cheddar soup), 1 can
- 16 ounces sour cream
- ½ cup finely diced onion
- 2 cups shredded Colby or cheddar cheese, divided
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Nutritional Values
Calories: 355 | Carbohydrates: 23g | Protein: 10g | Fat: 24g | Saturated Fat: 14g | Cholesterol: 68mg | Sodium: 503mg | Potassium: 418mg | Fiber: 1g | Vitamin A: 755IU | Vitamin C: 8.5mg | Calcium: 265mg | Iron: 1.4mg | Total Servings: N/A
FAQ
- Can I prepare the hashbrown casserole in advance?
- Yes, you can assemble the hashbrown casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it. Just ensure it’s covered well to maintain freshness.
- Is it possible to freeze the hashbrown casserole for later use?
- Absolutely, this cheesy hashbrown casserole can be frozen. You can freeze leftovers in individual portions, making it convenient for future lunches or quick dinners.
- Can I add other ingredients to the casserole for variation?
- Certainly! You can incorporate leftover chicken, ham, or ground beef into the casserole. Additionally, adding vegetables like steamed broccoli, peas, or frozen veggies can enhance the recipe.
- What can I use as a crunchy topping for the casserole?
- If you prefer a crunchier texture, you can top the casserole with crushed cornflakes mixed with melted butter before baking.
- Can I substitute the cream of chicken soup with another type of soup?
- Yes, you can use cream of cheddar soup if available. Both options work well and provide a deliciously creamy base for the casserole.
Tips
- For a version closer to the original Cracker Barrel recipe, consider using condensed cream of cheddar soup if available, as it enhances the cheesy flavor while maintaining the dish’s creamy texture.
- To add a crunchy texture to your hashbrown casserole, try topping it with crushed cornflakes mixed with melted butter before baking. This provides a delightful contrast to the creamy casserole.
- If you have leftover meats like chicken, ham, or ground beef, or even some extra veggies, stir them into the casserole mixture. This adds protein and nutrients, making the dish even more hearty and satisfying.
- To save time for future meals, prepare the casserole as directed and freeze any leftovers in individual portions. This makes for a quick and convenient lunch or dinner option on busy days.
Equipment
- 9×13-inch casserole dish
- Large mixing bowl
