– **Title**: Copycat Cracker Barrel Potato Casserole
– **Ingredients**:
– 2 pounds frozen hash brown potatoes (thawed)
– 1 cup sour cream
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
– 1/2 cup butter, melted
– 1 can cream of chicken soup (10.5 oz)
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup crushed cornflakes (optional, for topping)
– 2 tablespoons butter (for topping)
– **Instructions**:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed hash brown potatoes, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped onion, melted butter, cream of chicken soup, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are fully combined.
3. Transfer the potato mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
4. If using, combine the crushed cornflakes with the 2 tablespoons of melted butter and sprinkle the mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
6. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your Copycat Cracker Barrel Potato Casserole!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Hash Brown Potatoes: Frozen hash browns are key to this casserole’s texture. If you prefer fresh, you can shred your own potatoes. Just soak them in cold water first to remove excess starch, then pat dry before using.
Sour Cream: This adds creaminess and tang. Greek yogurt is a fantastic substitute if you want a healthier option. You can use plain yogurt too, but it might be a little less rich.
Cream of Chicken Soup: This adds moisture and flavor. If you want to keep it vegetarian, try a cream of mushroom or celery soup instead. Homemade versions are also an option for more control over ingredients.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded sharp cheddar gives great flavor. If you’re not a fan of cheddar, medium or mild varieties work well too. For something different, you could also mix in Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a bit of heat.
Onion: Chopped onion gives a nice flavor base. You can swap in green onions for a milder taste, or use shallots for a sweeter flavor. Garlic powder is another option if you want a hint of garlic without the texture.
How Do I Get the Best Texture for My Casserole?
The casserole’s texture largely depends on how you mix and bake it. Be sure to combine everything gently, so the hash browns stay intact. Let’s break down the steps:
- Ensure the hash browns are still frozen when mixing; this helps them hold their shape during cooking.
- Mix the ingredients until just combined. Overmixing can make the hash browns mushy.
- Spread the mixture evenly in the baking dish, which helps everything cook consistently.
- For the topping, use fresh shredded cheese. It melts better than pre-shredded, which often has anti-clumping agents.
How to Make Copycat Cracker Barrel Potato Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1 (30 oz) bag of frozen hash brown potatoes
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Topping:
- 1 cup shredded cheese (for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 45 to 50 minutes to bake. So, in total, you’re looking at around 1 hour for this delicious dish from start to finish. Perfect for a cozy family dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your casserole will bake evenly and cook properly.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the frozen hash brown potatoes, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, chopped onion, melted butter, 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Use a spatula or spoon to mix everything together until it’s well combined. You want all those yummy flavors to blend nicely!
3. Prepare the Baking Dish:
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with some butter or non-stick spray to keep your casserole from sticking. Pour the potato mixture into the dish and spread it out evenly with a spatula, making sure it’s nice and smooth on top.
4. Add the Topping:
Now it’s time for the best part! Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. This will create a delicious cheesy crust as it bakes!
5. Bake to Perfection:
Place the casserole in your preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. You’re looking for it to be heated through and for the cheese on top to be golden brown and bubbly. It will smell amazing while it cooks!
6. Cool and Serve:
Once it’s done baking, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This helps it set up a little. Then, scoop out a serving and enjoy your comforting, homemade Copycat Cracker Barrel Potato Casserole with family or friends!
Can I Use Fresh Potatoes Instead of Frozen Hash Browns?
Absolutely! You can substitute fresh potatoes for frozen hash browns. Simply peel and shred about 5-6 medium potatoes, then rinse and dry them thoroughly to remove excess starch. Keep in mind that fresh potatoes will require a bit more baking time, so check for tenderness before serving.
What Can I Use Instead of Sour Cream?
If you don’t have sour cream on hand, you can substitute it with Greek yogurt for a similar tangy flavor and creamy texture. Alternatively, you can use mayonnaise or even cream cheese, but adjust the quantity to taste, as these will add a richer flavor.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quicker option!
Can I Add Other Ingredients to This Casserole?
Definitely! Feel free to customize your casserole by adding ingredients like cooked bacon, diced ham, or even vegetables like bell peppers or spinach. Just remember to adjust the seasonings to taste, as extra ingredients might alter the flavor profile!
