Cracker Barrel Hash Browns
Creamy, cheesy hash browns with a crispy edge, perfect for breakfast or brunch gatherings, combining savory flavors and a comforting texture that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Spray a 12 x 12 x 4-inch or 9 x 13-inch baking dish with Pam.
- In a large bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, melted margarine, salt, pepper, chopped onion, and grated Colby cheese.
- Gently mix in the thawed and broken-up frozen shoestring potatoes.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared dish or pan.
- Bake uncovered for 35 to 45 minutes at 350°F.
- If not browned enough, place under the broiler until golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using butter instead of margarine. You can also swap the Colby cheese for Cheddar or a blend for a different taste. If you prefer a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños or bell peppers. Ensure the potatoes are well-thawed and broken up to avoid clumping, which helps achieve even cooking. This dish can also be enhanced with herbs like thyme or parsley.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is perfect as a hearty breakfast or brunch side and pairs beautifully with Jackie'S Chicken Noodle Casserole for a comforting meal. Serve with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for balance. For a fun twist, try adding some crumbled bacon or sausage on top before serving for extra flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally, or place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. Avoid reheating multiple times to maintain the best texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cracker Barrel Hash Browns contains roughly 195 calories, with 7g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1707mg per serving (74% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh potatoes, but they will require peeling and shredding before using. You'll also need to par-cook them slightly to ensure they bake evenly with the other ingredients. This could alter the cooking time, so keep an eye on them while baking.
Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute the cream of chicken soup with a vegetarian alternative, such as cream of mushroom or a homemade white sauce. Also, ensure the cheese you use is vegetarian-friendly, as some cheeses contain animal rennet.
How can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the casserole up to a day in advance. Assemble all the ingredients in the baking dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, simply remove from the fridge, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes, and then bake as directed.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).