Easy Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole Recipe

It warms my heart to see families gather around a table, sharing laughter and enjoying a comforting meal. There’s something truly special about recreating those cherished restaurant favorites at home, isn’t there? This Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole recipe has been my mission lately, bringing that same warm, cheesy goodness to our own kitchen. I’ve tweaked and tested, poured in love and a dash of patience, until it mirrored that familiar taste that brings back memories of cozy mornings and hearty dinners.

I remember the first time I tried to replicate this Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole. It was a complete kitchen adventure, filled with learning curves and unexpected turns. The initial attempts were… well, let’s just say they didn’t quite capture the authentic magic. But I kept experimenting, guided by the goal of delivering a dish that would make my family smile.

Through it all, I discovered the secret lies in the balance of flavors and the quality of ingredients. You know, the way the sharpness of cheddar complements the creaminess of the sauce, the subtle onion notes dancing with the savory hash browns. That’s how this Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole became a beloved dish in our home. It’s more than food; it’s a connection, a shared experience that strengthens our bond.

This Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole embodies my cooking philosophy: nourishing meals that are simple, satisfying, and full of flavor. I’m excited to share this recipe with you, fellow flavor seekers, so you can create your own warm memories around the dinner table. If you want genuine, flavorful meals, come along with me!

INGREDIENTS You’ll Need:

  • 30 ounces frozen shredded hash browns, thawed
  • 1/2 cup butter, melted
  • 1 can (10.75 ounces) condensed cream of chicken soup
  • 1 pint (16 ounces) sour cream
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Ingredients for making Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole

For the best flavor in your Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole, I recommend sourcing high-quality cheddar cheese. Trust me, it makes a difference! You’ll find the freshest ingredients for this Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole at your local farmer’s market. This Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole proves that authentic flavor comes from thoughtful ingredient choices.

Don’t skimp on the butter; it adds a richness that’s essential to the casserole’s creamy texture. When chopping the onion, aim for a fine dice to ensure it blends seamlessly into the dish. Remember, this Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole ingredient list focuses on quality over quantity for authentic flavors!

Here’s a Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole flavor secret that transformed our family dinners: a pinch of garlic powder. My family loves when I add this extra touch to our Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole; it enhances the savory notes and brings out the best in the other ingredients.

Let’s Create This Together!

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. In my kitchen, this flavorful Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole typically takes about an hour to bake.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the thawed hash browns and melted butter. Mix well to ensure all the hash browns are coated evenly. Perfect time to appreciate the aromatic transformation! This step is crucial for achieving that perfect golden-brown crust on your Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole.
  3. Add the condensed cream of chicken soup, sour cream, chopped onion, 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper to the bowl. Stir until all ingredients are well combined. Your Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole should fill the kitchen with amazing aromas by now. Here’s where I used to miss a key step with my Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole – learn from my experience!
  4. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese over the top. Don’t be surprised if your Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole develops a few crispy edges; that’s part of its charm!
  5. Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly. While your Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole is developing these flavors, take a moment to appreciate creating something special for your family! I’ve found that covering the casserole with foil during the last 15 minutes prevents the cheese from burning.
  6. Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together even more. This easy hashbrown casserole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! Serve this tasty cracker barrel casserole with your favorite toppings.

How We Love to Enjoy This!

Our family loves enjoying this Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole as a side dish for breakfast, brunch, or dinner. It pairs wonderfully with ham, bacon, or sausage for a hearty breakfast spread. This easy hashbrown casserole is perfect alongside a juicy roast chicken or grilled steak for dinner.

The family gathers quickly when this aromatic Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole appears with our famous slow-cooked pot roast. For a simple yet satisfying meal, serve it with a fresh green salad. The contrasting textures and flavors create a balanced and delightful experience. This dish always reminds me of our taco hashbrown casserole for its versatility.

This Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole is perfect for those evenings when we want something truly satisfying! Presentation matters, so I like to garnish it with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color. During the holidays, this cheesy hashbrown casserole is a must-have at our family gatherings.

Leftovers can be transformed into delicious hash brown patties. Just pan-fry them until golden brown and crispy! If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a dollop of salsa or a fried egg on top. This cheesy hashbrown casserole is also a great addition to a potluck.

FAQs: Your Questions Answered

Does this Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole really satisfy hearty appetites? Absolutely! My family devours it every time. The combination of hash browns, cheese, and creamy sauce creates a filling and comforting dish that everyone loves.

What if someone in my family prefers milder flavors in their Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole? No problem! You can easily adjust the amount of onion and pepper to suit their taste. Consider using a mild cheddar cheese for a more subtle flavor.

How can I prepare this Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole ahead for busy weeks? You can assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. Just add about 10-15 minutes to the baking time when you’re ready to bake it.

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns for this Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole? Yes, you can. Just make sure to shred the potatoes and remove excess moisture before using them. I find that frozen hash browns offer a more consistent texture and save time, though.

What kind of cheese works best in this homemade hashbrown casserole? I prefer sharp cheddar for its bold flavor, but you can use a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack for a milder taste. Experiment and see what your family likes best!

Can I add meat to this Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole? Definitely! Cooked bacon, sausage, or ham would be delicious additions. Just add them to the mixture before baking. Consider the delicious combination that comes from our egg hashbrown casserole!

Is there a substitute for the cream of chicken soup in this Cracker Barrel casserole recipe? If you’re looking for a substitute, try using cream of mushroom soup or cream of celery soup. You can also make a homemade cream sauce using milk, butter, and flour. Some people use a combination of milk and sour cream instead.

Final Kitchen Wisdom:

This Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole has become a staple in our home because it’s simple, comforting, and always a crowd-pleaser. It supports our family’s authentic meal goals by bringing us together around the table to enjoy a satisfying dish made with love.

My Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole Flavor Secrets:

  1. A pinch of garlic powder: This enhances the savory notes and adds depth of flavor.
  2. High-quality cheddar cheese: It makes a noticeable difference in the overall taste.
  3. Don’t overbake: Keep an eye on it to prevent the cheese from burning.

Here are a few family-tested Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole variations:

  • Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for a kick.
  • Vegetarian: Add sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach.
  • Loaded: Top with cooked bacon, sour cream, and green onions after baking.

My son prefers the spicy version, while my daughter loves the vegetarian option. I hope you’ll make this Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole your own signature version by experimenting with different flavors and ingredients. For more ideas, check out this Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole Recipe.

Finished Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole ready to serve

I hope your family enjoys this recipe as much as mine does. Remember, the most important ingredient is love, so pour it in generously! So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to create a dish that will warm hearts and fill bellies. And if you have a hankering for potatoes and cheese, you have to check out this copycat Paneras potato soup recipe.

 
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Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole

Delicious Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole

Enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness of Cracker Barrel’s famous hashbrown casserole right at home! This copycat recipe is incredibly easy to make and is the perfect side dish for any meal.

  • Author: Savannah Rose
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 50 minutes
  • Total Time: 65 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale
  • 30 ounces frozen shredded hash browns, thawed
  • 1/2 cup butter, melted
  • 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of chicken soup
  • 1 pint sour cream
  • 1/2 cup chopped onion
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
  2. In a large bowl, combine the thawed hash browns, melted butter, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and chopped onion.
  3. Stir in 1 1/2 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is evenly combined.
  4. Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
  5. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
  6. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
  7. Let stand for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

For a richer flavor, use two cups of cheddar cheese in the casserole and top with a crispy topping of crushed cornflakes mixed with melted butter before baking.

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