If you’ve ever craved the comforting, cheesy goodness from your favorite Cracker Barrel breakfast table, let me introduce you to the ultimate Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole Recipe. This dish wraps tender hashbrowns in a creamy, cheesy embrace, with just the right hint of savory onion and buttery richness. It’s one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug in every bite, perfect for family breakfasts, holiday brunches, or anytime you want to bring a little Southern charm to your kitchen. Trust me, once you make this, it’ll become a cornerstone recipe you’ll call on again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind this Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole Recipe lies in its simple but perfectly balanced ingredients. Each one plays a vital role in creating that signature creamy texture and irresistible flavor that makes it so special.
- Frozen hash browns (30 oz, thawed): The base of the casserole, providing a delightful crispy-soft contrast once baked.
- Butter (1 stick, melted): Adds richness and helps bind the casserole.
- Condensed cream of chicken soup (10.75 oz can): The secret to creamy, comforting depth and a luscious sauce.
- Small onion (chopped): Brings a mild, slightly sweet bite that enhances overall flavor complexity.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (2 cups, divided): For that melty, gooey, cheesy top and creamy pockets throughout.
- Sour cream (1 cup): Adds tangy creaminess that balances the savory ingredients.
- Salt (1 tsp): Essential to elevate all the flavors without overpowering.
- Black pepper (½ tsp): Gives just a whisper of warmth and depth.
How to Make Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Ingredients
Preheat your oven to a cozy 350°F (175°C) and thaw your frozen hash browns ahead of time. This ensures everything mixes evenly and bakes beautifully. Having everything ready sets you up for a smooth cooking process and that perfect golden finish.
Step 2: Mix the Flavor Base
In a large bowl, toss in your chopped onions, one cup of shredded cheddar, salt, and pepper. This combination is the flavor foundation; the onions soften just right while baking and the cheese starts weaving its yummy melty magic.
Step 3: Blend in Creamy Ingredients
Next, stir in the sour cream and condensed cream of chicken soup until the mixture is smooth. These ingredients create that luxe, creamy texture so characteristic of the Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole Recipe, making every bite feel indulgent and satisfying.
Step 4: Add Hashbrowns and Butter
Fold in the thawed hash browns and melted butter, mixing thoroughly so that every piece is coated. This step ensures your casserole will crisp just right on the edges while remaining tender and silky on the inside.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Grease a 9×11 inch baking dish and spread your mixture evenly inside. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese across the top – this will brown beautifully and form a crust that’s hard to resist. Bake for 45 to 60 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly, sending delicious aromas wafting through your kitchen.
How to Serve Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Freshly chopped chives or green onions make a fantastic garnish, adding a pop of color and subtle freshness that cuts through the richness. You might also love a light sprinkle of crispy bacon bits for a smoky crunch to complement the creamy casserole.
Side Dishes
This dish shines alongside hearty breakfast classics like scrambled eggs, sausage links, or even a side of fresh fruit to balance the richness with natural sweetness. It also pairs wonderfully with roast chicken or pork chops for a comforting dinner option.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, consider serving this casserole in individual ramekins or mini cast iron skillets. It makes portion control easier and adds an inviting, rustic touch that’s perfect for family gatherings or brunch parties. You can also scoop it into small bread bowls for a playful, edible presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover your leftover Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole Recipe tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days, maintaining its creamy texture and flavors.
Freezing
You can freeze the casserole before baking—just prepare it, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before baking as usual. This makes it a great option for meal prep or busy days.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes until warmed through and the cheese is bubbly again. Microwaving works too, but the oven will help retain the casserole’s crispy edges and creamy interior.
FAQs
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?
While fresh potatoes can be used, frozen hash browns help achieve the authentic texture and consistent results that make this dish so beloved. Fresh potatoes may release more moisture and affect the creaminess.
Is there a vegetarian version of this casserole?
Absolutely! You can substitute the cream of chicken soup with a cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup for a vegetarian-friendly version without sacrificing any of the creamy deliciousness.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
It’s possible by using dairy-free alternatives like plant-based sour cream, butter substitutes, and non-dairy cheese. Just keep in mind that the texture and flavor will be slightly different but still tasty.
How can I make the top extra crispy?
For a crispier top, try broiling the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes of baking, keeping a close eye to prevent burning. Adding a small layer of crushed cornflakes mixed with butter can also create a delightful crunchy topping.
Can this casserole be made gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use a gluten-free cream of chicken soup and verify that your frozen hash browns contain no gluten additives, this recipe will work well for gluten-free diets.
Final Thoughts
There is truly nothing quite like the warm, cheesy comfort of the Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole Recipe. It’s easy to prepare, satisfying to eat, and brings a little bit of that beloved Cracker Barrel charm right into your home. I can’t wait for you to make this and share it with the people you love—it’s sure to become a family favorite in no time.
Print
Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole is a comforting and cheesy side dish perfect for any occasion. Featuring tender hash browns mixed with a creamy blend of sour cream, cream of chicken soup, cheddar cheese, onions, and butter, then baked until golden and bubbly, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s both easy to prepare and delicious.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 30 oz frozen hash browns, thawed
- 1 stick (8 tbsp) butter, melted
- 10.75 oz can condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 tsp salt
- 0.5 tsp pepper
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the casserole evenly.
- Mix Cheese, Onion, and Seasoning: In a large bowl, combine the chopped onion, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper to create a flavorful base.
- Add Creamy Ingredients: Stir in the sour cream and condensed cream of chicken soup until well blended with the onion and cheese mixture.
- Combine Hash Browns and Butter: Add the thawed hash browns and melted butter to the mixture, stirring thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Grease a 9×11 inch baking pan to prevent sticking, then spread the hash brown mixture evenly in the pan.
- Add Topping: Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole for a cheesy crust.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 45-60 minutes or until the top is golden brown, bubbly, and fully cooked through.
Notes
- Be sure to thaw the hash browns completely before mixing to prevent excess moisture in the casserole.
- You can substitute cream of mushroom soup for cream of chicken soup for a slightly different flavor.
- For a lighter version, use reduced-fat sour cream and cheese.
- Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes after baking to set before serving.
- Adding cooked bacon or green onions can enhance the flavor if desired.
