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Few dishes capture Southern comfort quite like Cracker Barrel’s famous Hashbrown Casserole. With its creamy interior, gooey melted cheese, and perfectly crisp golden edges, it’s the kind of meal that makes you feel at home with the very first bite.
This copycat version delivers everything you love about the restaurant’s dish—comfort, nostalgia, and rich flavor—without ever leaving your kitchen. Made with simple, pantry-friendly ingredients like shredded potatoes, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and melted butter, this casserole is both effortless and indulgent.
I first made this recipe during a family brunch when I wanted something hearty that could feed everyone with minimal fuss. The moment I pulled it from the oven, bubbling and golden on top, the smell alone brought everyone to the table. There were no leftovers that day—and that’s when I knew this one was a keeper.
Whether you’re making it for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy dinner side, this Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole is guaranteed to become a family favorite.
Why Make This Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole?
This recipe is more than just a delicious dish—it’s a celebration of simplicity and comfort. Here’s why it deserves a place in your regular rotation:
1. Restaurant-Level Flavor at Home
This recipe mirrors the rich, creamy texture and perfectly balanced cheesy flavor of the original Cracker Barrel dish—without needing to step outside or wait for a table.
2. Perfect for Every Occasion
From holiday breakfasts to potlucks and Sunday dinners, it fits beautifully into any meal. It pairs well with eggs, roasted meats, or simply on its own as a comfort-filled main.
3. Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor
All it takes is a handful of common kitchen staples—potatoes, cheese, cream, and butter. No complex steps, no rare ingredients—just real comfort food.
4. Family-Friendly and Crowd-Pleasing
Even picky eaters will go back for seconds. Its mild, creamy flavor makes it universally loved.
5. Customizable and Make-Ahead Friendly
It’s easy to tweak to suit your taste or dietary preferences, and it can be prepped in advance for hassle-free mornings.
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Ingredients List
Main Ingredients
1 (30-ounce) bag frozen shredded hash browns, thawed and drained of excess moisture
Tip: If using fresh potatoes, shred about 6 medium russet potatoes and pat dry with a towel to remove moisture for crispier edges.
1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of chicken soup
Substitute with cream of mushroom or celery soup for a vegetarian version.
1 cup sour cream
For a lighter twist, use plain Greek yogurt.
½ cup unsalted butter (1 stick), melted
1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded and divided (1½ cups for the mixture, ½ cup for topping)
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional, for flavor depth)
½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for color and subtle smokiness)
Optional Add-ins
1 cup diced cooked ham or bacon – adds a savory, smoky element
½ cup chopped green onions – brightens the flavor
½ cup diced bell peppers – adds color and crunch
¼ teaspoon cayenne or red pepper flakes – for a gentle heat
Cheddar cheese, rich in calcium and protein, pairs beautifully with the potassium-packed potatoes in this recipe
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray to ensure easy serving later.
Step 2: Prepare the Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed hash browns, diced onion, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, melted butter, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Mix gently but thoroughly with a rubber spatula or spoon until all the potatoes are evenly coated.
Step 3: Add the Cheese
Fold in 1½ cups of the shredded cheddar cheese. The cheese should blend into the creamy potato mixture, creating a rich base that melts together beautifully when baked.
Step 4: Layer the Casserole
Transfer the mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula to create a smooth, uniform surface.
Step 5: Add the Topping
Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese evenly over the top. For an extra golden crust, lightly dust the top with smoked paprika.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 50–55 minutes, or until:
The edges are bubbling,
The center is hot and set,
The top has a golden-brown crust.
For extra crispiness, you can broil it for 2–3 minutes at the end—but keep a close eye to prevent burning.
Step 7: Rest and Serve
Remove from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This allows the layers to set slightly, making it easier to cut and serve neat portions.
Serve warm and enjoy the melty, creamy goodness that rivals the restaurant version in every bite.
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Tips and Substitutions
Tips for Best Results
Thaw and Drain the Hash Browns: Extra moisture can make the casserole soggy. Let them thaw completely, then pat dry with paper towels.
Grate Your Own Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. Freshly grated cheese gives you the best creamy texture.
Use Room-Temperature Ingredients: Combining cold sour cream and melted butter can cause the mixture to clump. Let ingredients sit out for 10–15 minutes before mixing.
Don’t Overmix: Stir just enough to combine—overmixing can break down the potatoes.
Browning the Top: For a restaurant-quality crust, broil the casserole for the final 2 minutes or sprinkle crushed cornflakes on top before baking.
Substitutions
Soup Substitute: Replace canned soup with a homemade version—combine 1 cup milk, 1 tablespoon butter, 1 tablespoon flour, salt, pepper, and chicken bouillon. Simmer until thickened.
Dairy-Free Version: Use dairy-free butter, vegan cheese, and a plant-based sour cream alternative.
Low-Sodium Version: Choose low-sodium soup and unsalted butter to control salt levels.
Meat Add-Ins: Diced rotisserie chicken, cooked sausage, or crumbled bacon add protein and texture.
Vegetable Add-Ins: Mix in steamed broccoli, spinach, or sautéed mushrooms for extra nutrients.
Recipe Variations
Loaded Hashbrown Casserole:
Add cooked bacon, green onions, and a sprinkle of extra cheese on top. Serve with a dollop of sour cream—like a loaded baked potato in casserole form.Breakfast Casserole:
Whisk 4–6 eggs with ¼ cup milk and pour over the hashbrown mixture before baking. It turns into a fluffy, eggy, breakfast-ready dish.Spicy Southwest Casserole:
Stir in diced green chilies, pepper jack cheese, and a teaspoon of taco seasoning. Serve with salsa or avocado slices.Chicken and Broccoli Hashbrown Casserole:
Fold in 2 cups of cooked shredded chicken and 1 cup of steamed broccoli before baking for a one-dish dinner.Vegetarian Garden Casserole:
Mix in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and bell peppers, and use cream of mushroom soup instead of chicken soup.Crispy Topping Version:
Combine 2 cups of crushed cornflakes or Ritz crackers with 3 tablespoons melted butter, sprinkle over the top before baking for a crunchy, buttery crust.
Get hundreds of creative variations like these—plus nutritional insights and ingredient benefits—in The Encyclopedia of Power Foods, designed for home cooks who love both flavor and vitality.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Serving Size: 1 portion (1/8 of recipe)
Calories: 325
Total Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 60mg
Sodium: 530mg
Total Carbohydrates: 22g
Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 2g
Protein: 8g
Vitamin A: 15% DV
Calcium: 20% DV
Potassium: 440mg
Storage and Serving Suggestions
Storage
Refrigerate: Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze: Wrap tightly with foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheat: Warm in a 350°F oven for 20–25 minutes, or microwave individual portions for 2–3 minutes until hot.
Serving Suggestions
Breakfast: Pair with scrambled eggs, bacon, or fresh fruit.
Brunch: Serve alongside ham, sausage links, or a green salad.
Dinner: Complements roasted chicken, steak, or grilled vegetables beautifully.
Presentation Tip: Garnish with fresh chives or parsley and serve in the baking dish for a rustic, family-style feel.
Explore the science of smart meal pairings and food synergy in The Encyclopedia of Power Foods, a guide to building balanced, satisfying plates.
Common Questions
1. Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
Yes! You can assemble it up to 24 hours ahead, cover it with foil, and refrigerate. Bake uncovered right before serving for the best texture.
2. Can I freeze it before baking?
Definitely. Assemble the casserole, wrap tightly, and freeze up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before baking as directed.
3. How can I make this healthier?
Use low-fat sour cream, reduced-fat cheese, and a homemade soup base. Add vegetables like spinach or broccoli for more nutrients.
4. How do I keep it from becoming watery?
Make sure the hash browns are completely thawed and drained, and avoid covering the casserole during baking.
5. What’s the best cheese to use?
Sharp cheddar gives the signature flavor, but you can mix it with Monterey Jack or Colby for extra creaminess.
Conclusion
This Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole embodies everything we love about classic American comfort food—simple ingredients, big flavor, and a rich, creamy texture that satisfies every craving. Whether served at breakfast or as a side dish at dinner, it’s a recipe that brings warmth and joy to every table.
So grab your potatoes, preheat your oven, and bring the taste of Cracker Barrel right into your home—with all the comfort, nostalgia, and flavor that makes this dish unforgettable.
