A couple of months ago, I was craving that creamy, cheesy hashbrown casserole from Cracker Barrel after a road trip, but with no restaurant in sight and a bag of frozen hashbrowns begging to be used, I decided to play kitchen detective.
I found a copycat version online, tried it, and wow—it was like teleporting to a cozy diner, complete with that golden, cheesy top that makes you forget your manners.
If you’re after a comforting, diner-style dish, let’s get this in the oven!
Why You’ll Love This Hashbrown Casserole
- Creamy, cheesy comfort straight from the diner.
- Golden cheddar crust that’s pure magic.
- Easy to whip up with pantry staples.
- Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or potlucks.
Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole Recipe
For this delicious copycat version of Cracker Barrel hashbrown casserole, you’ll need he following ingredients:
Ingredients
- 32 ounces frozen shredded hashbrowns, thawed – Forms the hearty, potatoey base.
- ½ cup melted butter – Adds rich, buttery depth to every bite.
- 1 can (10.5-oz) condensed cream of chicken soup – Binds it with creamy, savory goodness.
- 2 cups sour cream – Brings tangy, velvety texture to the mix.
- ½ medium onion, finely diced – Sneaks in subtle sweetness and savoriness.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided – Melts into gooey, golden perfection.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Enhances all the flavors just right.
Optional Add-Ons
- ¼ cup crumbled bacon – Sprinkles in smoky, crispy pops for extra flavor.
- 2 tbsp chopped green onions – Adds a fresh, mild bite for color and zing.
Tools You’ll Need
- Casserole dish – Bakes it all into bubbly bliss.
- Mixing bowl – Blends the creamy mixture smoothly.
- Spatula or spoon – Mixes and spreads everything even.
- Measuring cups and spoons – Keeps the ratios spot-on.
- Knife and cutting board – Dices the onion fine and fast.
Step-by-Step Instructions for CopyCat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and let it warm up—takes about 10 minutes while you gather your stuff. Grease a casserole dish with a dab of butter or spray—sets the stage.
Step 2: Thaw the Hashbrowns
Make sure the 32 oz. frozen shredded hashbrowns are fully thawed—spread ‘em out in a bowl or on a tray for 20-30 minutes if needed. Pat dry with a paper towel to soak up extra water—keeps it from getting soggy.
Step 3: Mix the Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine the 10.5-oz can of cream of chicken soup, 2 cups sour cream, ½ cup melted butter, and ½ medium onion (finely diced)—stir with a spatula ‘til it’s a smooth, creamy blend. Should smell savory and look rich.
Step 4: Add Seasoning
Sprinkle in salt and pepper to taste—start with a pinch of each, stir, and adjust as needed. Mix well to make sure the seasoning’s even—sets the flavor foundation.
Step 5: Fold in Hashbrowns and Cheese
Add the thawed hashbrowns and 1 ½ cups of the 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (save the rest for topping)—fold gently with the spatula ‘til everything’s coated. Looks like a cheesy, potatoey dream—resist sneaking a bite.
Step 6: Spread in Dish
Scoop the mixture into the greased casserole dish—spread it out evenly with the spatula, pressing lightly to pack it down. Keep it flat for even baking—no fuss, just comfort.
Step 7: Top with Cheese
Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese over the top—cover it evenly for that golden, melty crust. Looks like a diner classic already—ready for the oven.
Step 8: Bake and Serve
Pop the dish in the oven—bake uncovered for 45-50 minutes ‘til the cheese is bubbly and the top’s golden brown. Pull it out with oven mitts, let it sit 5-10 minutes to settle, then scoop it hot—diner vibes await!
Storage and Serving
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days—freeze for up to 2 months, though the texture may soften. Serve hot—great for breakfast with eggs or as a side for dinner.
Tips for Success
- Thaw hashbrowns fully—frozen ones make it watery.
- Mix gently—overstirring turns it gluey.
- Use sharp cheddar—bolder flavor pops more.
- Let it rest post-bake—slices cleaner for serving.
Substitutes and Variations
- Swap cream of chicken for cream of mushroom—earthier vibe.
- Use Monterey Jack cheese for a milder melt.
- Try diced shallots instead of onion—sweeter twist.
- Add a pinch of paprika for smoky flair.
Nutritional Breakdown
| Nutrient | Per Serving (8 servings total) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 420 kcal |
| Fat | 32g |
| Protein | 12g |
| Total Carbs | 22g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Net Carbs | 20g |
Note: Values are approximate and vary by brands.
Pairing Suggestions
- Serve with scrambled eggs for a hearty breakfast.
- Pair with a fresh fruit salad for bright contrast.
- Add a side of sautéed spinach for veggie balance.
- Enjoy with iced coffee—perfect brunch vibes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
I’ve messed these up before, so here’s how to dodge the pitfalls with some extra detail:
- Using frozen hashbrowns and ending up with a watery, soggy casserole – If you don’t thaw the hashbrowns completely, they release excess moisture during baking, turning the dish into a soupy mess that never sets; I’ve scooped out a sad puddle once—thaw and pat dry every time.
- Overmixing the ingredients and getting a gluey, dense texture – Stirring the hashbrowns and creamy base too vigorously breaks down the potatoes, making the casserole pasty and heavy; I’ve had a batch that felt like spackle—fold gently to keep it light.
- Baking too long and drying out the creamy goodness – Leaving it in past 50 minutes, especially in a hot oven, evaporates the moisture, turning the creamy interior into a dry, crumbly block; I’ve chipped away at an overbaked batch—check at 45 minutes for bubbliness.
FAQs
Can I use fresh potatoes?
Sure, shred and par-cook 32 oz.—more work, same vibe.
No cream of chicken soup?
Use cream of celery or make a white sauce—same amount.
Too rich?
Cut sour cream to 1 ½ cups next time—still creamy.
What Others Are Saying About the Recipe
- Lila: “Diner vibes at home—family loved the cheese!”
- Troy: “So creamy and easy—brunch game-changer!”
- Nia: “Perfect for potlucks—gone in a flash!”
Wrapping it Up
There you have it—my CopyCat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole, the comfort-food champ that brought diner magic to my kitchen with zero road trip required. It’s cheesy, creamy, and simple enough to whip up while the morning’s still a blur. Hope it brings some cozy to your table—let me know if you give it a try. Now grab those hashbrowns and get mixing—you’re in for a good one!