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
-
Tastes just like Cracker Barrel’s famous side
-
Made with easy-to-find, budget-friendly ingredients
-
Great for holidays, potlucks, or meal prep
-
Ready in under an hour
-
Kid-approved and freezer-friendly
Ingredients Breakdown:
-
Frozen Shredded Hash Browns (32 oz, thawed): The base of the casserole, offering a tender, starchy texture.
-
Cream of Chicken or Cheddar Soup (1 can, 10.25 oz): Provides creamy flavor and helps bind the ingredients.
-
Sour Cream (1 pint): Adds tanginess and extra creaminess.
-
Melted Butter (½ cup): Adds richness and helps create a golden top.
-
Finely Chopped Onion (½ cup): Adds savory depth and a touch of bite.
-
Grated Colby Cheese (2 cups): Melts beautifully for a gooey, cheesy texture.
-
Black Pepper (¼ tsp): Simple seasoning to balance flavors.
Tips and Tricks
-
Add Crunch: Top with crushed Ritz crackers or cornflakes before baking.
-
Make It Spicy: Stir in diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
-
Meat Lovers: Add crumbled cooked bacon or diced ham to the mix.
-
Cheese Swap: Mix in Monterey Jack, sharp cheddar, or pepper jack for variation.
-
Make Ahead: Assemble the night before and refrigerate. Add 10 minutes to baking time if chilled.
Variations and Customizations
-
Vegetarian Option: Use cream of mushroom soup instead of chicken.
-
Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free soup and check your hash browns for gluten content.
-
Mini Portions: Scoop into muffin tins for single-serving hashbrown bites.
Pairing Suggestions
-
Breakfast or Brunch: Serve with scrambled eggs, bacon, or pancakes
-
Dinner: Pairs well with roast chicken, BBQ ribs, or meatloaf
-
Holiday Spread: A hit alongside ham, turkey, or green bean casserole
Storage Instructions
-
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days
-
Freezer: Freeze in a freezer-safe dish for up to 2 months
-
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.
