Cracker Barrel’s Hash Browns Casserole Recipe

Craving that creamy, cheesy, soul-warming side dish you’ve adored at your favorite country restaurant? Cracker Barrel’s Hash Browns Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, and now you can whip it up in your own kitchen with ease. Every forkful is loaded with savory potatoes, melty cheese, and a delightful golden crust—just like the original!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of my favorite things about Cracker Barrel’s Hash Browns Casserole is how it transforms humble ingredients into something spectacular. Each element is simple—yet together, they create a dish that’s creamy, cheesy, and totally irresistible. Here’s what makes every bite sing:

• Frozen shredded hash browns (32 ounces, thawed): The foundation of the dish, offering soft texture and a bit of classic potato flavor with minimal prep.
• Melted butter (½ cup): Coats the potatoes for rich flavor and that signature golden finish—don’t skimp!
• Cream of chicken soup (10.5 ounces, 1 can): Adds savory backbone; use cream of cheddar for a fun, cheesier spin.
• Sour cream (16 ounces): Gives the casserole its irresistible tang and velvety creaminess.
• Finely diced onion (½ cup): Lends a gentle bite and sweet undertones as it bakes.
• Shredded Colby or cheddar cheese (2 cups, divided): Melts beautifully for gooeyness inside and a crisp top layer.
• Black pepper (¼ teaspoon): Just enough to balance the richness and wake up those flavors.

Variations

One of the joys of making Cracker Barrel’s Hash Browns Casserole at home is how easily it adapts to your tastes, what’s in the fridge, or any dietary preferences. Don’t be afraid to make it your own!

• Meaty Upgrade: Stir in cooked bacon, ham, or breakfast sausage for a heartier, protein-packed version.
• Cheese Swap: Use Monterey Jack, Swiss, or pepper jack for a different vibe (or a spicy kick!).
• Vegetarian-Friendly: Simply sub cream of mushroom soup for the cream of chicken to keep it meat-free.
• Top It Off: For even more crunch, sprinkle crushed cornflakes, potato chips, or buttery panko crumbs over the last layer of cheese.

How to Make Cracker Barrel’s Hash Browns Casserole

Step 1: Preheat and Prep the Dish

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F and greasing a 9×13-inch casserole dish. This ensures your casserole bakes evenly and doesn’t stick, making cleanup a total breeze.

Step 2: Mix the Filling

In a large bowl, stir together the thawed hash browns, melted butter, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, diced onion, 1½ cups of shredded cheese, and black pepper. Mix until everything is thoroughly combined for best flavor distribution.

Step 3: Assemble in the Baking Dish

Spoon the hash brown mixture into your prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly using a spatula so you’ll get plenty of that perfect cheesy layer in every bite.

Step 4: Add Cheese on Top

Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheese evenly over the casserole. This topping will bubble and brown, creating that irresistible crust everyone loves.

Step 5: Bake Until Hot and Golden

Bake uncovered for 45–55 minutes, or until the edges are bubbling and the top is perfectly golden. Let the casserole stand for a few minutes to set before scooping out hearty helpings.

How to Serve Cracker Barrel’s Hash Browns Casserole

Garnishes

For a restaurant-worthy finish, try scattering fresh chives or sliced green onions over the warm casserole. If you love a little crunch, a sprinkle of crispy bacon or a handful of buttery breadcrumbs takes it right over the top.

Side Dishes

This casserole shines beside scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, or juicy breakfast sausages for a classic breakfast plate. It’s also right at home with roast chicken, baked ham, or a big green salad for an easy-breezy dinner.

Creative Ways to Present

For brunch buffets, cut the casserole into small squares and serve them as bite-sized hors d’oeuvres, or bake individual portions in ramekins for an elegant touch. You can even spoon it into toasted bread bowls for a wow-worthy centerpiece!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover casserole covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen as it sits, making leftover slices even more delicious for busy weekday meals!

Freezing

You can freeze portions of Cracker Barrel’s Hash Browns Casserole (baked or unbaked). Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating or baking.

Reheating

To reheat, simply cover and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through, about 20 minutes. For single servings, the microwave works in a pinch—just add a splash of milk to keep things creamy.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited as I am to bring Cracker Barrel’s Hash Browns Casserole into your kitchen. Whether it’s for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy weeknight side, this classic hits all the right notes. Give it a try—you just might find it becomes the most-requested dish at your table, too!

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