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Cracker Barrel Style Hashbrown Casserole – Cozy, Cheesy Comfort

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 (30–32 oz) bag frozen shredded hashbrowns, thawed
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup (or cream of mushroom for vegetarian)
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped (about 1/2 to 3/4 cup)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • Optional topping: 1 cup crushed cornflakes or buttered panko + 2 tablespoons melted butter
  • Cooking spray or a little butter for greasing the pan

Method
 

  1. Preheat and prep: Heat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
  2. Thaw the potatoes: If your hashbrowns aren’t thawed, spread them on a sheet pan and let them sit at room temperature for 20–30 minutes. Pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
  3. Mix the sauce: In a large bowl, stir together the condensed soup, sour cream, melted butter, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  4. Add cheese and onion: Fold in 1 1/2 cups of the shredded cheddar and the chopped onion. Reserve the remaining 1/2 cup cheese for topping.
  5. Combine with hashbrowns: Add the thawed hashbrowns to the bowl and gently mix until everything is evenly coated. Avoid overmixing to keep the shreds intact.
  6. Transfer to the pan: Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish, smoothing the top.
  7. Top it: Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup cheddar over the surface. For a crunchy finish, toss crushed cornflakes or panko with 2 tablespoons melted butter and scatter over the cheese.
  8. Bake: Bake uncovered for 45–55 minutes, until the edges are bubbly and the top is golden. The center should be hot and set.
  9. Rest and serve: Let it rest for 10 minutes before scooping. This helps it firm up for cleaner servings.