Cracker Barrel'S Hash Brown Casserole
Creamy and cheesy hash brown casserole with savory flavors, perfect for family dinners or potlucks, combining crispy hash browns, melted cheese, and aromatic seasonings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix milk, beef broth, 1 tablespoon melted butter, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper in a bowl.
- Heat 1 tablespoon butter in a skillet over medium heat.
- When hot, stir in hash browns and chopped onion.
- Add the broth mixture and cook for about 7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Remove from heat, stir in shredded Colby cheese.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake in a 425°F oven for 45 to 60 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
- Serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra savory flavor, consider adding cooked bacon or sausage crumbles to the hash brown mixture. You can also substitute the Colby cheese with cheddar for a sharper taste. If you prefer a creamier texture, use half-and-half instead of milk. Ensure your hash browns are thawed for even cooking and to avoid excess moisture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole as a hearty breakfast or brunch dish, and pair it with scrambled eggs or a fresh fruit salad for a balanced meal. It also makes a great side for dinner, especially alongside beef recipes like Hamburger Steak In Mushroom Gravy. Garnish with fresh herbs for added flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, just be cautious not to overheat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cracker Barrel'S Hash Brown Casserole contains roughly 379 calories, with 29g protein, 45g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (59% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (56% of the Daily Value), and calcium (50% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1048mg per serving (46% 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 prepare the hash brown casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Simply assemble the ingredients and cover the baking dish with foil. Refrigerate overnight and bake it the next day. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's cold from the fridge.
Can I freeze the hash brown casserole?
Absolutely! You can freeze the unbaked casserole. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then follow the baking instructions. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.
What can I substitute for beef broth?
If you prefer a lighter flavor, chicken broth or vegetable broth can be used as a substitute for beef broth. For a richer taste, consider using mushroom broth, which complements the dish well and keeps it vegetarian-friendly.
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).