Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole: Amazing Comfort Food

Name: Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole: Amazing Comfort Food
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 32 oz frozen shredded hash browns, thawed; 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1/4 cup melted butter; 1/2 cup chopped onion; 2 cups shredded Colby or cheddar cheese; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; Optional: Extra cheese for topping; Optional: Chopped green onions or parsley for garnish; Optional: Crushed cornflakes or buttery crackers for crunch

by basmer

1 de November de 2025

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Cracker Barrel hashbrown casserole has been a weekend brunch staple in my house for years, ever since I stumbled upon a copycat recipe that tasted just like the real deal. I remember the first time I tried it; the aroma of melted cheese and savory potatoes filled my kitchen, and my family couldn’t get enough. This creamy, cheesy, golden-brown baked hashbrown dish is pure comfort food. It’s the perfect addition to any holiday spread or just a simple Sunday morning. Get ready to impress your loved ones with this easy Cracker Barrel breakfast casserole! Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole

You’re going to adore this recipe for so many reasons. It’s the ultimate comfort food that brings smiles to everyone’s faces.

It’s incredibly easy to make, perfect for busy mornings.
The creamy, cheesy texture is simply irresistible.
This dish is a crowd-pleaser, making it ideal for brunches and holidays.
It tastes just like the famous Cracker Barrel potato casserole you know and love.
The golden-brown topping offers a delightful crunch.
You can customize it with your favorite add-ins for a personal touch.
This Cracker Barrel potato casserole is a fantastic side dish that complements any meal.
It’s a delicious way to enjoy a hearty breakfast or brunch.

Ingredients for Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole

Gathering these simple Cracker Barrel hashbrown casserole ingredients is a breeze! This recipe focuses on creating that signature creamy, cheesy goodness that makes the original so beloved. This is the list you’ll need for a truly authentic homemade Cracker Barrel hashbrown casserole.

32 oz frozen shredded hash browns, thawed – Make sure they are completely thawed so they mix in evenly and bake properly.
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup – This is the creamy base that gives the casserole its rich texture.
1/2 cup sour cream – Adds tanginess and extra creaminess, crucial for that signature flavor.
1/4 cup melted butter – For richness and to help create that delightful golden-brown crust.
1/2 cup chopped onion – Adds a subtle savory depth.
2 cups shredded Colby or cheddar cheese – For that essential cheesy, gooey factor that everyone loves.
1/2 teaspoon salt – To enhance all the flavors.
1/4 teaspoon black pepper – For a touch of gentle spice.
Optional: Extra cheese for topping – Because you can never have too much cheese!
Optional: Chopped green onions or parsley for garnish – For a fresh pop of color and flavor.
Optional: Crushed cornflakes or buttery crackers for crunch – To mimic the crispy topping.

How to Make Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole

Get ready to create a truly delicious homemade version of this beloved dish. Following these Cracker Barrel hashbrown casserole instructions will lead you to a bubbly, golden-brown masterpiece that rivals the original.

Step 1: First things first, let’s get that oven preheating to 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming up, grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and give it a light greasing. This ensures your casserole won’t stick and will slide right out after baking.
Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the foundational ingredients for that irresistible creamy texture. Mix together the 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup, 1/2 cup sour cream, 1/4 cup melted butter, and 1/2 cup chopped onion. Add the 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper now too, as these seasonings are key to the flavor profile of this Cracker Barrel style hashbrown casserole.
Step 3: Now for the cheesy goodness! Stir in the 2 cups shredded Colby or cheddar cheese until everything is beautifully combined. You should see the cheese start to melt slightly into the creamy mixture.
Step 4: Gently fold in the 32 oz frozen shredded hash browns, thawed, making sure they are completely coated in that savory, cheesy mixture. Take your time here; you want every single shred to be enveloped in this delicious sauce. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect texture in your Cracker Barrel potato casserole.
Step 5: Transfer the entire mixture into your prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly with a spatula, smoothing the top so it bakes uniformly.
Step 6: If you’re going for that extra layer of flavor and texture, now’s the time to sprinkle on your optional toppings. Add more shredded cheese for ultimate gooeyness, or sprinkle on crushed cornflakes or buttery crackers for a delightful crunch that’s characteristic of a great Cracker Barrel breakfast casserole.
Step 7: Pop the dish into the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the edges are delightfully bubbly and the top is a beautiful golden brown. The aroma filling your kitchen will be absolutely heavenly!
Step 8: Once it’s out of the oven, resist the urge to dig in immediately! Let the Cracker Barrel hashbrown casserole cool on a wire rack for about 5-10 minutes.
Step 9: For a final touch of freshness and color, garnish with optional chopped green onions or parsley. Your amazing homemade Cracker Barrel hashbrown casserole is now ready to be served and enjoyed!

Pro Tips for the Best Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole

I’ve made this dish more times than I can count, and I’ve picked up a few tricks to ensure it comes out perfectly every single time. These tips will help you achieve that classic, comforting flavor and texture.

Always thaw your frozen hash browns completely. This is key for even baking and preventing a watery casserole.
Don’t skimp on the cheese! Using a good quality Colby or cheddar, and even adding a bit extra on top, makes a huge difference in flavor and gooeyness.
For an extra crispy topping, I love to sprinkle crushed cornflakes or buttery crackers over the cheese before baking.
Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes after baking. This lets it set up slightly, making it easier to serve and preventing it from falling apart.

What’s the secret to perfect Cracker Barrel hashbrown casserole?

The secret lies in the creamy base. Using both cream of chicken soup and sour cream creates that signature rich, tangy, and perfectly moist texture that makes this Cracker Barrel style hashbrown casserole so irresistible. For more insights into achieving perfect creamy textures in dishes, you can explore copycat recipe techniques.

Can I make Cracker Barrel hashbrown casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the entire casserole (without the optional topping) up to a day in advance. Cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator. You might need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Cracker Barrel hashbrown casserole?

The most common pitfall is a watery casserole, which happens if the hash browns aren’t fully thawed. Another mistake is overbaking, which can dry out the edges. Stick to the recommended baking time and check for that bubbly, golden-brown perfection. Understanding healthy breakfast preparation can also help avoid common pitfalls in similar dishes.

Best Ways to Serve Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole

This comforting dish is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of breakfast and brunch favorites. It’s more than just a side; it’s a star!

Serve it alongside fluffy pancakes or waffles for a classic diner experience. It’s also a fantastic addition to an Easter or holiday brunch spread, complementing dishes like glazed ham or roasted turkey. For a hearty weekend breakfast, consider pairing this Cracker Barrel breakfast potato casserole with scrambled eggs and crispy bacon. The rich, cheesy potatoes are the perfect complement to lighter fare or can stand up to robust flavors. If you’re looking for other great breakfast sides, check out these easy family dinner ideas that often include breakfast-style components.

Nutrition Facts for Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole

This Cracker Barrel hashbrown casserole nutrition information provides a general overview of what you can expect per serving. It’s a hearty dish, perfect for making any breakfast or brunch feel special. Remember that these are estimates, and actual values can vary based on ingredient brands and any optional additions you might use.

Calories: 320
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 3g
Protein: 10g
Cholesterol: 45mg
Sodium: 640mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

How to Store and Reheat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole

One of the best things about this homemade Cracker Barrel hashbrown casserole is how well it stores and reheats, making it perfect for meal prep. After baking, let the casserole cool on a wire rack for about 10-15 minutes. This allows it to set up slightly, which makes it easier to portion and prevents it from getting mushy when stored.

For refrigeration, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container. It will keep well in the fridge for 3 to 4 days. This makes it super convenient for enjoying that delicious Cracker Barrel baked hashbrowns flavor throughout the week. If you want to store it for longer, wrap the cooled casserole tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and freeze it for up to 3 months. This is a great way to have this comfort food on hand anytime! For more meal prep ideas, explore these make-ahead meal ideas.

When you’re ready to reheat, you have a couple of options. For the best texture, especially if reheating from frozen, place a portion in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, usually about 15-20 minutes. You can also reheat it more quickly in the microwave, just be sure to cover it to prevent splattering.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole

Can I use fresh hash browns instead of frozen for Cracker Barrel hashbrown casserole?

While this recipe calls for frozen shredded hash browns, you can technically use fresh ones. You’ll need to shred your own potatoes and then importantly, squeeze out as much moisture as possible. This step is crucial to prevent a watery casserole and achieve the right consistency for a homemade Cracker Barrel hashbrown casserole.

What kind of cheese is best for Cracker Barrel hashbrown casserole?

The classic choice for a Cracker Barrel copycat hashbrown casserole is Colby or a mild cheddar. These cheeses melt beautifully and offer a creamy, slightly sharp flavor. However, feel free to experiment! Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack for a kick, or even a blend of your favorites can work wonderfully to customize your dish. For more cheese-based recipes, check out our ham and cheddar crescent roll-ups.

Why is my Cracker Barrel hashbrown casserole watery?

The most common reason for a watery casserole is not thawing the frozen hash browns completely. When frozen hash browns are added to the hot mixture, they release a lot of moisture as they cook. Ensuring they are fully thawed and drained (if you’re using fresh) is key to avoiding this issue and getting that perfect, creamy texture.

Can I make this Cracker Barrel breakfast potato casserole vegetarian?

Yes! This recipe is already vegetarian as written, assuming your cream of chicken soup is vegetarian-friendly (check the label, as some contain chicken broth). If you want to be absolutely sure or prefer a different flavor profile, you can easily substitute cream of mushroom soup or cream of celery soup for the cream of chicken soup. This makes it a versatile Cracker Barrel breakfast casserole option for everyone.

Variations of Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole You Can Try

This beloved dish is fantastic as is, but I love experimenting to see how many ways we can enjoy it! Whether you’re looking for dietary swaps or just want to add a new flavor dimension, there are plenty of delicious variations to explore.

Spicy Kick: For those who like a little heat, try adding a can of diced jalapeños (drained) along with the cheese. You can also swap the shredded cheddar or Colby for Pepper Jack cheese to amp up the spice in your Cracker Barrel potato bake recipe.
Meat Lover’s Dream: Elevate this into a heartier meal by adding cooked and crumbled bacon, diced ham, or breakfast sausage to the hash brown mixture. This transforms it into a full-fledged meal, perfect for a substantial brunch.
Creamy Mushroom Delight: If you’re not a fan of cream of chicken soup or want a vegetarian option, simply swap it out for a can of cream of mushroom soup. This variation offers a slightly earthier flavor profile that complements the potatoes beautifully.
Crockpot Convenience: For an even easier approach, prepare this casserole in your slow cooker! Combine all ingredients as usual, transfer to a greased crockpot, and cook on LOW for 4-5 hours or HIGH for 2-3 hours. Add extra cheese during the last 30 minutes of cooking for that perfect melty topping.