Craving the iconic Cracker Barrel hashbrown casserole from the comfort of home? This easy copycat recipe delivers the same creamy, cheesy, melt-in-your-mouth experience using simple pantry staples. Whether you’re making brunch, a holiday side dish, or a cozy weeknight dinner, this Southern-style hashbrown casserole is guaranteed to please the whole table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Tastes just like Cracker Barrel’s famous side
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Made with easy-to-find, budget-friendly ingredients
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Great for holidays, potlucks, or meal prep
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Ready in under an hour
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Kid-approved and freezer-friendly
Ingredients Breakdown:
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Frozen Shredded Hash Browns (32 oz, thawed): The base of the casserole, offering a tender, starchy texture.
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Cream of Chicken or Cheddar Soup (1 can, 10.25 oz): Provides creamy flavor and helps bind the ingredients.
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Sour Cream (1 pint): Adds tanginess and extra creaminess.
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Melted Butter (½ cup): Adds richness and helps create a golden top.
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Finely Chopped Onion (½ cup): Adds savory depth and a touch of bite.
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Grated Colby Cheese (2 cups): Melts beautifully for a gooey, cheesy texture.
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Black Pepper (¼ tsp): Simple seasoning to balance flavors.
Tips and Tricks
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Add Crunch: Top with crushed Ritz crackers or cornflakes before baking.
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Make It Spicy: Stir in diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
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Meat Lovers: Add crumbled cooked bacon or diced ham to the mix.
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Cheese Swap: Mix in Monterey Jack, sharp cheddar, or pepper jack for variation.
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Make Ahead: Assemble the night before and refrigerate. Add 10 minutes to baking time if chilled.
Variations and Customizations
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Vegetarian Option: Use cream of mushroom soup instead of chicken.
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Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free soup and check your hash browns for gluten content.
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Mini Portions: Scoop into muffin tins for single-serving hashbrown bites.
Pairing Suggestions
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Breakfast or Brunch: Serve with scrambled eggs, bacon, or pancakes
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Dinner: Pairs well with roast chicken, BBQ ribs, or meatloaf
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Holiday Spread: A hit alongside ham, turkey, or green bean casserole
Storage Instructions
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Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days
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Freezer: Freeze in a freezer-safe dish for up to 2 months
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Reheating: Bake at 350°F until heated through, or microwave individual servings
Popular Questions
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?
Yes, just shred them and remove excess moisture with a towel before using.
Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?
Absolutely! It works as a lower-fat, protein-rich alternative.
How do I prevent the casserole from being too runny?
Be sure your hash browns are completely thawed and drained of excess moisture before mixing.