Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole

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Golden, creamy, and irresistibly cheesy—this Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole is the kind of comfort food that makes everyone go back for seconds. With its crispy top and rich interior, it’s the perfect dish to bring to any gathering or enjoy as a cozy side dish at home. One bite and you’ll see why it’s a Cracker Barrel favorite!

This casserole combines hashbrowns with melty cheese, a touch of sour cream, and savory cream of chicken soup for that indulgent, nostalgic flavor. Best of all, it’s simple to make and bakes into bubbly perfection with minimal prep. Whether you’re hosting brunch or adding a side to dinner, this recipe delivers every time.

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What Kind of Hashbrowns Should I Use?

Frozen shredded hashbrowns are your best bet for this recipe. They not only save time but also ensure a consistent texture. If you prefer, you can shred fresh potatoes, but be sure to rinse and drain them well to remove excess starch—otherwise, your casserole might end up gummy instead of creamy.

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Ingredients for the Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole

Frozen Shredded Hashbrowns
The heart of the dish! These create the base and bulk of the casserole.

Cheddar Cheese
Sharp cheddar is key to capturing that iconic flavor and cheesy richness.

Cream of Chicken Soup
This adds a savory depth and binds everything together with its creamy consistency.

Sour Cream
For a touch of tang and added creaminess.

Onion
Minced onion provides a mild savory bite that enhances the overall flavor.

Butter
Melted butter brings richness and helps create that golden crust on top.

Salt & Pepper
Simple seasonings that balance and highlight the cheesy goodness.

Chives (optional)
A sprinkle of fresh chives adds a pop of color and subtle onion flavor.

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How To Make the Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and help achieve a golden crust.

Step 2: Mix the Casserole Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed hashbrowns, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, finely chopped onion, melted butter, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything together until the ingredients are evenly distributed.

Step 3: Transfer and Flatten

Spoon the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly and gently press it down with a spatula to level the surface. This helps ensure even baking and a consistent texture.

Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 45-50 minutes. The top should turn golden brown, with bubbling edges and a crispy, cheesy crust.

Step 5: Add a Finishing Touch

Optional: Once baked, sprinkle freshly chopped chives over the top for a pop of green and a hint of fresh flavor.

Step 6: Let It Rest and Serve

Allow the casserole to sit for about 5 minutes after removing from the oven. This helps it firm up slightly and makes serving easier. Cut into squares and serve warm.

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Serving and Storing This Cheesy Casserole

This Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole is best served warm straight out of the oven. It pairs beautifully with eggs and bacon for breakfast, or as a hearty side alongside roasted meats or holiday dishes.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply pop individual portions in the microwave or warm the full dish in a 325°F oven until heated through. You can also freeze it—wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hashbrowns?

Yes, but you’ll need to shred them and remove excess starch by rinsing and drying them well to avoid sogginess.

What if I don’t have cream of chicken soup?

You can substitute with cream of mushroom or make a homemade white sauce as a replacement.

Can I add meat to this casserole?

Absolutely! Diced ham, cooked sausage, or even shredded chicken make great additions for extra protein.

Is it okay to prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble it a day in advance. Cover and refrigerate, then bake when ready—just add 5-10 extra minutes to the bake time.

How do I get the top extra crispy?

For an ultra-crispy top, broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes of baking. Keep a close eye so it doesn’t burn.

Can I make this casserole gluten-free?

Just swap the cream of chicken soup with a certified gluten-free version and double-check all your ingredients.

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Want More Casserole Ideas?

If you’re into savory bakes like this hashbrown casserole, you’ll definitely want to try these satisfying comfort food recipes:

• Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole: Layers of cheesy pasta goodness with a rich meat sauce.
• Chicken Crescent Roll Casserole: Creamy chicken filling wrapped in buttery crescent rolls.
• Cheesy Baked Tortellini with Meat Sauce: Hearty and gooey with layers of pasta and sauce.
• Creamy Alfredo Lasagna Soup: All the flavor of lasagna in a cozy soup form.
• Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes: An easy and savory dinner idea for busy nights.

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Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest board so you can revisit it whenever the comfort food craving hits.

And let me know how your casserole turns out! Did you try a meat add-in or tweak the cheese blend? I love hearing your spins on these nostalgic favorites.

Questions or tips to share? Drop them in the comments—let’s make this the go-to hashbrown casserole for everyone.

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