There’s something irresistibly comforting about a casserole dish fresh out of the oven, bubbling with creamy, cheesy goodness. The Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole is a beloved classic, bringing together shredded potatoes, a rich cheese sauce, and a golden, crispy top that’s impossible to resist. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner, this dish embodies the kind of warmth and nostalgia you crave from home-cooked comfort food.
If you’ve ever dined at Cracker Barrel, you know this casserole is the star of the menu, and now you can recreate it at home. With its easy preparation and crowd-pleasing flavor, it’s a go-to recipe for family gatherings, holiday feasts, or simply treating yourself to a taste of down-home goodness.
Not only is this casserole delicious, but it’s also incredibly versatile. Pair it with eggs and bacon for breakfast or serve it alongside roasted meats for dinner. Whatever the occasion, this recipe guarantees satisfaction with every creamy, cheesy bite. Let’s dive in and learn how to make this iconic dish step by step.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Restaurant Favorite: Enjoy the iconic Cracker Barrel flavor without leaving your home.
- Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples and easy-to-find items.
- Versatile Dish: Perfect for breakfast, brunch, dinner, or potlucks.
- Make-Ahead Option: Prepare in advance for stress-free hosting.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Loved by kids and adults alike.
- Budget-Friendly: A cost-effective way to feed a crowd.
- Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe to suit your taste preferences.
Ingredients Overview
- Hashbrowns: Shredded potatoes form the base of the casserole, providing a tender yet slightly crisp texture.
- Cheddar Cheese: Adds richness and a sharp, tangy flavor.
- Cream of Chicken Soup: Creates a creamy, savory sauce.
- Sour Cream: Enhances the creaminess with a tangy edge.
- Butter: Adds richness and helps bind the ingredients.
- Onions: Provide a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor.
- Seasonings: A mix of salt, pepper, and optional paprika or garlic powder for added flavor.
How to Make the Recipe
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, melted butter, salt, pepper, and any additional seasonings you prefer. Mix until smooth and well blended.
Step 3: Stir in the shredded hashbrowns, grated cheddar cheese, and diced onions. Make sure all the ingredients are evenly coated with the creamy mixture.
Step 4: Transfer the potato mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out in an even layer for consistent cooking.
Step 5: If you’d like a crispy topping, sprinkle extra cheese or crushed cornflakes mixed with melted butter over the top of the casserole.
Step 6: Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until it’s bubbly and golden brown on top. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Tips for the Best Recipe
- Thaw Hashbrowns: If using frozen hashbrowns, let them thaw completely and pat them dry to avoid excess moisture.
- Grate Your Cheese: Use freshly grated cheese for better melting and flavor.
- Adjust Seasonings: Customize the flavor with herbs like parsley or spices like paprika.
- Add Crunch: A topping of crushed cornflakes or breadcrumbs mixed with butter adds texture.
- Avoid Overmixing: Mix gently to maintain the texture of the hashbrowns.
Variations to Try
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom or celery soup.
- Bacon Lover’s Twist: Add crumbled cooked bacon for a smoky, savory flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Include diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper for some heat.
- Healthier Version: Use reduced-fat sour cream and cheese, and swap butter for olive oil.
- Loaded Style: Top with green onions, more cheese, and a dollop of sour cream after baking.
- Southwestern Flair: Add diced bell peppers, corn, and taco seasoning for a Tex-Mex twist.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hashbrowns? Yes, peel and shred fresh potatoes, then soak them in cold water for 30 minutes to remove excess starch. Drain and pat dry before using.
- Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Absolutely! Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Bake it fresh when ready to serve.
- What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup? Use cream of mushroom, cream of celery, or make a homemade roux-based sauce for a similar consistency.
- How do I store leftovers? Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
- Can I freeze this casserole? Yes, freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.
How to Store and Reheat
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Wrap the assembled casserole tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing.
- Reheating: Warm leftovers in a 350°F oven until heated through or microwave individual portions.
Conclusion
Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that’s both easy to make and incredibly satisfying. Its creamy, cheesy layers and golden top make it a standout dish for any meal, whether you’re hosting brunch or looking for a cozy dinner side.
Bring the taste of Cracker Barrel to your kitchen with this foolproof recipe. Share it with loved ones, and don’t forget to follow Ava Foodie on Pinterest for more delicious ideas. This casserole is bound to become a family favorite, so grab your ingredients and get cooking today!
