Crispy Cracker Barrel Hash Browns Recipe

Looking for a simple yet delicious dish for brunch or gatherings? Look no further than these Effortless Cracker Barrel Hash Browns. This cheesy and rich potato casserole is a family favorite that’s bound to disappear fast from the table. With its hassle-free preparation and irresistible taste, it’s a go-to recipe for those cozy Sunday mornings or impromptu get-togethers.

Imagine digging into a corner piece of this hash brown casserole, revealing a perfect blend of smooth, creamy center and crispy, cheesy edge. It’s comfort food at its finest, evoking memories of home-cooked meals shared with loved ones. Whether you enjoy it with sausage links and scrambled eggs for breakfast or as a side dish at a potluck, these hash browns are guaranteed to please any crowd.

So, if you’re looking to recreate that beloved Cracker Barrel taste in the comfort of your own kitchen, whip up these Effortless Cracker Barrel Hash Browns. With tips on ingredient substitutions and storage options for leftovers, this recipe is not only delicious but also versatile and convenient for busy days ahead.

Quick Benefits

• Effortless to make – no need to peel fresh potatoes or make tricky sauces
• Versatile – can easily swap ingredients like cheese or add in extras like ham or bacon
• Convenient leftovers – can be stored in the fridge for up to three days or frozen for future meals

Why You’ll Love This Crispy Cracker Barrel Hash Browns Recipe Recipe

• Easy and Hassle-free: This recipe is effortless to make, perfect for busy mornings or gatherings where you want a delicious dish without the fuss of peeling and preparing fresh potatoes.
• Crowd Pleaser: Loved by all, this cheesy and rich casserole disappears fast at the table, making it ideal for family gatherings, potlucks, or brunch with friends.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand—whether it’s using different types of cheese, butter instead of margarine, or adding in cooked ham or bacon for extra flavor.
• Comfort Food at its Best: Each bite offers a satisfying mix of creamy, cheesy interior and crispy, crunchy top layer, reminiscent of the comfort food grandma used to make.
• Make-ahead and Freezer-friendly: Prepare this casserole in advance, refrigerate leftovers for up to three days, or freeze for later enjoyment. Reheat in the oven for the best texture and taste.
• Pairs Well with Various Dishes: Enjoy this dish alongside sausage links and scrambled eggs for breakfast, or serve it as a side to roast ham or chicken. It’s a versatile addition to any meal.
• Southern-style Delight: A classic Southern dish that is a staple at potlucks, church lunches, or diner breakfasts, this hash brown casserole captures the essence of comfort food that keeps you coming back for more.

Ingredients for Crispy Cracker Barrel Hash Browns Recipe

• 900 g frozen shredded hash brown potatoes
• 225 g Colby cheese, shredded
• 40 g margarine
• 1 medium onion, chopped up small
• 300 g canned cream of mushroom soup
• 300 g canned cream of celery soup

Pro Tips for Crispy Cracker Barrel Hash Browns Recipe

For the Effortless Cracker Barrel Hash Browns recipe, a pro tip for extra flavor is to add cooked ham or bacon cubes to the mix. This will elevate the dish with a savory and smoky touch. Additionally, if you prefer a richer taste, feel free to substitute margarine with butter for a more indulgent result.

To maintain the perfect texture of the hash brown casserole, consider using freshly grated potatoes instead of frozen ones. Remember to rinse and pat them dry before incorporating them into the recipe to prevent sogginess. Experiment with different cheese varieties like cheddar or a mild cheese blend to discover unique and delicious flavor profiles for this comforting dish.

How to Make Crispy Cracker Barrel Hash Browns Recipe

Step 1: Bake

Place the dish in a preheated oven and bake for 45-60 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and slightly toasted.

Step 2: Add Cheese and Margarine

Dot the top with small pieces of margarine and sprinkle the remaining Colby cheese on top.

Step 3: Assemble Casserole

Transfer the entire potato mixture into the greased dish and gently press it down to create a smooth surface.

Step 4: Prepare Baking Dish

Coat a 23 x 33 cm pan with cooking spray.

Step 5: Combine Main Ingredients

Combine half of the grated cheese, hash browns, both soups, and chopped onion in a large bowl. Mix thoroughly until well combined.

Step 6: Preheat Oven

Preheat the oven to 175°C.

Storage Tips

After baking the Cracker Barrel Hash Browns, allow any leftovers to cool completely before storing. Cover the dish tightly with foil or transfer leftovers to sealed containers. These can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days to maintain their fresh taste. For longer storage, you can freeze portions of the casserole. When reheating, it is recommended to warm them up in the oven for the best texture, rather than using the microwave. Despite being reheated, the dish will maintain its creamy consistency.

If you run out of Colby cheese, you can easily substitute it with mild cheddar or a cheddar/mozzarella mix, as they melt similarly. Additionally, if you prefer a richer flavor, you can swap margarine for butter in the recipe. For added variety, consider incorporating cooked ham or bacon cubes into the mixture. This versatile dish pairs well with various accompaniments such as sausage links, scrambled eggs, roast ham, or chicken. When bringing it to a potluck, complement the dish with a side of fruit salad or green beans for a balanced meal. Enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness of this Southern-style hash brown casserole for a comforting and delicious meal.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don’t have Colby cheese on hand, feel free to substitute it with mild cheddar or a cheddar/mozzarella mix for a similar melting quality. You can also experiment with other types of cheese to add different flavors to the dish.

Instead of margarine, you can use butter for a richer taste in the casserole. If you have ham or bacon available, consider adding cooked cubes to the mixture for additional protein and flavor.

If you prefer a different flavor profile, you can swap out the cream of celery soup or cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken soup. This substitution will alter the taste slightly while maintaining the creamy and smooth texture of the dish.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative twist on serving this delicious Cracker Barrel Hash Browns, try turning them into individual hash brown muffins. Simply spoon the mixture into greased muffin tins and bake until golden brown. These individual portions are perfect for serving at brunch gatherings or packing for a savory on-the-go breakfast option.

To elevate the presentation of this classic dish, consider topping the hash brown casserole with crispy bacon or finely chopped chives before serving. The addition of these toppings not only adds extra flavor and texture but also enhances the visual appeal of the dish, making it a standout centerpiece at any breakfast or brunch spread.

FAQs for Crispy Cracker Barrel Hash Browns Recipe

Can I use a different type of cheese instead of Colby?

Sure thing! You can use mild cheddar or a cheddar/mozzarella mix as a substitute for Colby cheese. They will melt almost the same and still give a delicious cheesy flavor to the dish.

Can I use butter instead of margarine in this recipe?

Absolutely! You can swap out margarine for butter if you prefer a richer flavor. Feel free to use butter as a substitute in the recipe.

How should I store the leftovers of this hash brown casserole?

After baking, cool the leftovers, then cover them tightly or store them in sealed containers. You can keep the leftovers in the fridge for up to three days for a fresh taste. For longer storage, freeze the casserole in portions and reheat in the oven for the best texture.

Can I use cream of chicken soup instead of cream of celery or mushroom?

Absolutely! Using cream of chicken soup will change the flavor slightly, but it will still keep the dish creamy and smooth. Feel free to experiment with different cream soup flavors to find your favorite combination.

Conclusion

In conclusion, with these Effortless Cracker Barrel Hash Browns, you have a deliciously creamy and cheesy dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a brunch with family and friends or simply craving a comforting meal, this hash brown casserole is sure to satisfy your taste buds.

Don’t hesitate to customize this recipe to your liking, whether it’s swapping out cheeses, adding in your favorite meats, or trying different variations of cream soups. The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility and simplicity, making it a go-to recipe that you’ll want to keep in your rotation.

So go ahead and whip up a batch of these Effortless Cracker Barrel Hash Browns for your next meal. From the crispy edges to the creamy center, every bite is a delightful combination of flavors and textures that will have everyone coming back for more. Enjoy!

Crispy Cracker Barrel Hash Browns Recipe

“Easy, cheesy Cracker Barrel Hash Browns – a comforting dish perfect for potlucks or Sunday brunch, with a crispy top and creamy center.”

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time15 Minutes

Cook Time60 Minutes

Total Time75 Minutes

CuisineAmerican

Skill LevelEasy

Servings12 Servings (One large baking dish)

Ingredients

• 900 g frozen shredded hash brown potatoes
• 225 g Colby cheese, shredded
• 40 g margarine
• 1 medium onion, chopped up small
• 300 g canned cream of mushroom soup
• 300 g canned cream of celery soup

Instructions

1. Bake: Place the dish in a preheated oven and bake for 45-60 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and slightly toasted.
2. Add Cheese and Margarine: Dot the top with small pieces of margarine and sprinkle the remaining Colby cheese on top.
3. Assemble Casserole: Transfer the entire potato mixture into the greased dish and gently press it down to create a smooth surface.
4. Prepare Baking Dish: Coat a 23 x 33 cm pan with cooking spray.
5. Combine Main Ingredients: Combine half of the grated cheese, hash browns, both soups, and chopped onion in a large bowl. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
6. Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 175°C.