If you’ve ever enjoyed a meal at Cracker Barrel, you know how delicious their Hashbrown Casserole is.
This dish combines the creamy, cheesy goodness of comfort food with the convenience of using frozen hashbrowns.
Using a mix of sour cream, cream of chicken soup, and cheese gives you that signature Cracker Barrel flavor at home.
One important tip:
Make sure to let the casserole rest for a few minutes after baking to allow it to set properly.
I love how this recipe is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner.
How to Make Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 bag Hashbrowns (30 oz.)
- 2 cups Colby Cheese (shredded)
- 1 can Cream of Chicken Soup (10.5 oz.)
- 1 cup Sour Cream
- 1 small Onion (finely chopped)
- 1/4 cup Butter (melted)
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1/2 tsp Black Pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with some cooking spray or butter.
Step 2:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the hashbrowns, 1 1/2 cups of the cheese, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, onion, butter, salt, and pepper.
Mix everything well until evenly coated.
Step 3:
Pour the mixture into the prepared casserole dish.
Spread it out evenly.
Step 4:
Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheese over the top of the casserole.
Step 5:
Bake in the preheated oven for 45 to 55 minutes.
The cheese should be melted and slightly browned on top.
Serve while hot.
Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe
Use Fresh Ingredients
Using fresh onions and high-quality cheese can make a big difference in the flavor.
Thaw Hashbrowns
Make sure to thaw your hashbrowns before mixing them into the casserole to avoid excess moisture.
Mix Thoroughly
Mixing thoroughly ensures that every bite is packed with flavor and the ingredients are evenly distributed.
Bake Until Golden
Keep an eye on the casserole in the last 10 minutes of baking.
Bake until it’s golden brown for the best texture.
Let It Rest
Allow the casserole to sit for about 5 minutes after baking.
This helps it set and makes it easier to serve.
What to Serve with Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole
Southern Fried Chicken
A classic pairing is Southern fried chicken, with its crispy exterior and juicy interior.
This makes a hearty and satisfying meal.
Steamed Broccoli
For a lighter side, consider steamed broccoli.
It provides a nice contrast and adds a splash of color to your plate.
Fresh Fruit Salad
A fresh fruit salad can be a surprising and refreshing addition to your meal.
It balances the richness of the casserole with natural sweetness and vibrant flavors.
Grilled Asparagus
Grilled asparagus adds a unique, slightly smoky flavor that complements the casserole well.
Its tender yet slightly crunchy texture is a delightful contrast.
Cornbread
Cornbread is another traditional choice that pairs beautifully.
Its slightly sweet and crumbly texture goes well with the creamy hashbrown casserole.
Variations and Substitutions
Cheese Options
Experiment with different cheese types like Colby, Monterey Jack, or a mix of cheddar and mozzarella.
Each type of cheese will give the casserole a unique flavor and texture, allowing you to customize it to your liking.
Soups
Try using different types of cream soups for a twist. Cream of mushroom or cream of celery can be good alternatives to cream of chicken.
Each type brings its own unique flavor to the dish, making it a fun way to switch things up.
Protein Add-ins
Adding cooked bacon, ham, or sausage to your hashbrown casserole is an excellent way to make it heartier.
These proteins not only add flavor but also make the dish more filling. You can also substitute the protein based on what you have available.
Vegetarian Variations
Substitute the cream of chicken soup with a vegetarian cream soup. You can also skip the meat additions altogether.
Adding vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or zucchini can offer a fresh and colorful twist.
Spice It Up
Spice up your casserole by adding jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. These additions can give your dish a nice kick.
Experiment with different spices like paprika or cumin for added depth of flavor.
Dairy-Free and Vegan Options
Use dairy-free cheese and sour cream alternatives if you’re looking to make a vegan or dairy-free version.
Swap the butter for a plant-based alternative to complete this variation. These modifications make the dish suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
How to Store Leftover Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole
Leftover Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole can be a real treat if stored properly.
Cooling Down the Casserole
Allow the casserole to cool to room temperature.
This helps prevent condensation in your storage container.
Using an Airtight Container
Place the cooled casserole in an airtight container.
This keeps the casserole fresh and prevents it from absorbing other odors in your fridge.
Refrigerating and Freezing
Store the container in the refrigerator if you plan to eat it within 3-4 days.
For longer storage, freeze the casserole for up to 2 months.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Not Thawing Hashbrowns
Using frozen hashbrowns without thawing can result in a watery texture.
Thawing your hashbrowns first will ensure that your casserole is creamy and delicious.
Overmixing the Ingredients
It’s easy to overmix the ingredients, which can make the texture too dense.
Gently mix the components until just combined.
Skipping the Grease
Forgetting to grease your baking dish can cause the casserole to stick.
Always apply a thin layer of grease to avoid any sticking issues and simplify cleanup.
Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole
- 1 bag Hashbrowns 30 oz.
- 2 cups Colby Cheese shredded
- 1 can Cream of Chicken Soup 10.5 oz.
- 1 cup Sour Cream
- 1 small Onion finely chopped
- 1/4 cup Butter melted
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1/2 tsp Black Pepper
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish with some cooking spray or butter.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the hashbrowns, 1 1/2 cups of the cheese, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, onion, butter, salt, and pepper.
- Mix everything well until evenly coated.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared casserole dish.
- Spread it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheese over the top of the casserole.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45 to 55 minutes.
- The cheese should be melted and slightly browned on top.
- Serve while hot.
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