I just love a comforting casserole, and this cracker barrel cheesy hash brown recipe Copycat Casserole truly delivers. The irresistible aroma of warm, bubbling cheese and perfectly cooked potatoes fills my kitchen every time I make it. Perfect for busy weeknights or a festive brunch, this easy-to-follow recipe brings a beloved restaurant classic home. You’ll master the secret to creamy, satisfying hash browns that everyone will ask for again and again. Get ready for a crowd-pleasing dish that’s simple to make and incredibly delicious for your family.
Ingredients
Core ingredients for your Cheesy Hash Brown Casserole:
- Frozen Shredded Hash Browns: 30 oz (850g) package, thawed. These form the essential foundation for that perfect, tender potato texture.
- Condensed Cream of Chicken Soup: 1 (10.5 oz / 298g) can. This adds a rich, savory creaminess to the casserole.
- Sour Cream: 16 oz (450g) container. Provides tang and a luscious moisture that makes the casserole so satisfying. (Or Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangier option.)
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese: 2 cups (220g), divided. Essential for ultimate meltiness and a classic cheesy flavor. (Use sharp or mild, based on your family’s preference.)
- Unsalted Butter: 1/2 cup (113g), melted. For cooking the onions and contributing a golden, rich topping.
- Yellow Onion: 1/2 cup (75g), finely chopped (about 1 small). Adds a subtle, aromatic depth to the dish.
- Seasonings: 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, 1 teaspoon garlic powder. These enhance the overall savory profile.
Optional add-ins & smart swaps:
- Add-ins: Diced bell peppers, chopped chives, a pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle kick.
- Cheese Swaps: Monterey Jack, Colby, or a blend for varied melt and flavor.
- Soup Swaps: Cream of mushroom or celery for a different flavor profile, or a homemade roux for gluten-free options.
- Healthier Options: Low-fat sour cream, reduced-sodium soup for lighter versions.
Premium/healthy variations:
- Organic Hash Browns: Choose for a cleaner, higher-quality potato base.
- Gluten-Free: Ensure your cream soup is certified gluten-free and check all other labels.
- Plant-Based: Use vegan sour cream, dairy-free shredded cheese, and a plant-based cream soup alternative for a delicious, easy dinner idea.
Seasonal or freshness notes:
- Freshly shredded cheese melts significantly better than pre-shredded varieties, yielding a smoother texture.
- Using fresh chives or green onions for garnish adds a vibrant, fresh flavor and appealing color.
Step-by-Step Preparation Instructions
Mastering your cracker barrel cheesy hash brown recipe Copycat Casserole:
- Preheat Oven & Prep Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish, ensuring all corners are coated for easy serving and cleanup.
- Thaw Hash Browns: Allow the frozen hash browns to thaw for at least 30 minutes at room temperature, or overnight in the fridge. This crucial step prevents a watery casserole; I always squeeze out any excess moisture with a clean kitchen towel.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the condensed cream of chicken soup, sour cream, melted butter, finely diced onion, salt, pepper, and garlic powder until smooth and well-combined. The mixture should be creamy and fragrant.
- Add Hash Browns & Cheese: Gently fold in the thawed hash browns and 1.5 cups (165g) of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until everything is evenly coated in the creamy sauce, ensuring no dry spots remain. If the mixture looks too thick or dry, stir in 1-2 tablespoons of milk for added creaminess.
- Transfer to Dish: Pour the hash brown mixture into your prepared 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. The surface should be flat for even baking.
- Bake: Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the edges are bubbly and lightly golden brown. The center should be set, not runny, and you’ll notice a delightful aroma filling your kitchen.
- Add More Cheese (Optional): If desired, sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup (55g) of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top for the last 10 minutes of baking. Watch for a glistening, melted cheese layer.
- Rest & Serve: Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes after baking. This allows it to set and makes for easier, cleaner serving, ensuring each scoop holds its shape beautifully.
Best Times to Enjoy and Storage Tips
This cracker barrel cheesy hash brown recipe Copycat Casserole suits many occasions.
- Family Dinners: Comforting side.
- Holiday Feasts: Brunch or dinner.
- Weeknight Hero: Easy assembly.
- Potlucks: Travels well.
- Brunch Staple: Great with eggs.
- Sides: Roasted chicken, scrambled eggs, fruit.
- Toppings: Extra cheese, green onions, hot sauce.
Store leftovers airtight: fridge 3-4 days, freezer up to 2 months. Reheat oven 300°F (150°C) for 20-30 mins, or microwave.
Health, Nutrition & Lifestyle Benefits of Cracker Barrel Cheesy Hash Brown Casserole
This cracker barrel cheesy hash brown recipe offers comfort and benefits for easy healthy dinner ideas.
- Hearty: Keeps hunger at bay.
- Protein: Add chicken/sausage for high-protein meals.
- Energy: Potatoes provide sustained energy.
- Gluten-Friendly: Adapt with certified gluten-free options.
- Family-Friendly: Delicious easy dinner everyone loves.
How This Recipe Matches Everyday Goals
The cracker barrel cheesy hash brown recipe Copycat Casserole meets home cooking needs.
- Budget-Friendly: Uses affordable ingredients.
- Time-Saving: Minimal prep; great for quick meal prep recipes.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Loved by all, stress-free for family dinners.
- Versatile: Side or main, fits meal plans.
Pro Tips and Adjustments with Cracker Barrel Cheesy Hash Brown Casserole
Elevate your cracker barrel cheesy hash brown recipe with these tips. I find small adjustments make a big difference.
- Thaw & Squeeze: Prevents watery casserole.
- Freshly Grated Cheese: Best melt and flavor.
- Crispy Topping: Use crushed cornflakes/buttered breadcrumbs.
- Spice: Add paprika, garlic powder, or cayenne for a kick.
- Diet: Plant-based for dairy-free. Omit/chop onions for kids.
FAQs
Here are common questions about this classic comfort food.
Is cracker barrel cheesy hash brown recipe Copycat Casserole good for weight loss?
While comfort food, this cracker barrel cheesy hash brown recipe can be adapted. Use low-fat sour cream, reduced-fat cheese, add lean protein or vegetables. Portion control is essential.
Where to buy quality ingredients for this recipe?
Find ingredients at any grocery store. Seek quality frozen hash browns, block cheddar, and your preferred cream soup/sour cream. Organic options are available.
Can I use cracker barrel cheesy hash brown recipe Copycat Casserole in meal prep plans?
Absolutely! This cracker barrel cheesy hash brown recipe is excellent for quick meal prep. Assemble night before or bake and portion for lunches. Reheats beautifully from fridge/freezer.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the entire casserole the day before, cover, refrigerate. Add 10-15 minutes to baking time when cooking from cold.
What kind of hash browns are best for this cracker barrel cheesy hash brown recipe?
Shredded hash browns (frozen or fresh) work best for this cracker barrel cheesy hash brown recipe’s classic texture. Thaw and drain well. Cubed hash browns yield different consistency.
How to get a crispy topping on my cracker barrel cheesy hash brown recipe?
Spread evenly. Mix crushed cornflakes or panko with butter and sprinkle. Broiling for the last few minutes (watch carefully!) helps achieve that golden crust I enjoy.
Can I add meat to this cracker barrel cheesy hash brown recipe?
Definitely! Cooked crumbled sausage or shredded chicken are delicious additions. Add when mixing for a substantial, high-protein meal. This transforms this cracker barrel cheesy hash brown recipe into a full easy dinner idea.
This cracker barrel cheesy hash brown recipe Copycat Casserole is an easy, comforting classic for your family table. It’s truly a satisfying, easy dinner idea that always brings smiles.
Save this quick meal prep recipe to your Pinterest favorites, and try it for your next family dinner!
cracker barrel cheesy hash brown recipe Copycat Casserole
- Total Time: 90 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: General
Description
This copycat Cracker Barrel Cheesy Hash Brown Casserole delivers a comforting, cheesy potato dish perfect for weeknights or brunch. It features tender hash browns, a creamy sauce, and melted cheddar cheese, bringing a beloved restaurant classic home.
Ingredients
- 30 oz frozen shredded hash browns, thawed
- 10.5 oz can condensed cream of chicken soup
- 16 oz sour cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (1.5 cups for mixture, 0.5 cup for topping)
- 0.5 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 0.5 cup yellow onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Optional: 1-2 tablespoons milk (if mixture is too thick)
- Optional: diced bell peppers, chopped chives, or a pinch of cayenne pepper
Instructions
- Preheat Oven & Prep Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Thaw Hash Browns: Allow the frozen hash browns to thaw for at least 30 minutes at room temperature or overnight in the fridge. Squeeze out any excess moisture with a clean kitchen towel.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the condensed cream of chicken soup, sour cream, melted butter, finely diced onion, salt, pepper, and garlic powder until smooth and well-combined.
- Add Hash Browns & Cheese: Gently fold in the thawed hash browns and 1.5 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until everything is evenly coated in the creamy sauce. If the mixture looks too thick or dry, stir in 1-2 tablespoons of milk for added creaminess.
- Transfer to Dish: Pour the hash brown mixture into your prepared 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
- Bake Casserole: Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the edges are bubbly and lightly golden brown and the center is set.
- Add More Cheese (Optional): If desired, sprinkle the remaining 0.5 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top for the last 10 minutes of baking.
- Rest & Serve: Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes after baking to allow it to set for easier serving.
Notes
Squeeze excess moisture from thawed hash browns to prevent a watery casserole. Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-shredded. For lighter options, use low-fat sour cream or Greek yogurt. Consider adding diced bell peppers or chives for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240 g)
- Calories: 380 calories
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 550 mg
- Fat: 25 g
- Saturated Fat: 15 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 12 g
- Cholesterol: 50 mg
Keywords: Cracker Barrel, Cheesy, Hash Brown, Casserole, Copycat, American, Brunch, Easy, Family Meal