Copy Cat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole Recipe

If you’ve ever visited Cracker Barrel, you know their Hashbrown Casserole is a standout dish. This creamy, cheesy casserole is the perfect comfort food, whether you’re serving it for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy dinner side dish.

The Copy Cat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole recipe needs just 5 minutes of prep and delivers all the flavors of the original.

With its combination of shredded hash browns, tangy sour cream, and melted Colby cheese, this casserole is an instant crowd-pleaser.

This easy-to-make dish brings the signature flavors of Cracker Barrel right to your kitchen. It’s made with frozen hash browns for convenience and a creamy mix of melted butter, cream of chicken soup, and sour cream.

A topping of grated Colby cheese adds the finishing touch, creating a golden, bubbly crust that’s irresistible.

Perfect for gatherings or family meals, it pairs beautifully with eggs, bacon, or even a simple green salad.

Key Ingredients

32 ounces frozen shredded hash browns thawed
1 pint sour cream
½ cup melted butter
2 cups Colby cheese grated (divided)
10¼ ounces condensed cream of chicken soup or cream of cheddar, 1 can
½ cup finely chopped onion
¼ teaspoon pepper

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

You can prep the casserole the night before and store it in the fridge. Just remember to let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking.

You may need to add an extra 15 minutes of baking time if it’s still cold.

How do I adjust the baking time if doubling the recipe?

For best results, split the doubled recipe into two pans for even cooking. If you bake it all in one pan, you might need up to two hours to ensure it’s fully heated through.

How to Make This Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole

Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.

In a large mixing bowl, combine thawed hashbrowns, melted butter, condensed soup, sour cream, chopped onion, 1 ½ cups of grated cheese, and pepper, mixing until well incorporated.

Spread this mixture evenly into the prepared casserole dish and sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheese on top.

Bake in the oven for 45-55 minutes, or until the casserole is hot, bubbly, and lightly golden on top.

Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?

Yes! You can cook this casserole in a slow cooker. For best results, cook it on low for about 2-4 hours, using paper towels under the lid to absorb excess moisture.

Tips for the Perfect Casserole

Use freshly grated cheese: Pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly. Grating your own cheese will give you a creamier texture.

Thaw the hash browns completely: Thawed hash browns blend better with the other ingredients, ensuring even cooking.

Experiment with different cheeses: While Colby cheese is a classic choice, try mixing in sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack for added flavor and a bit of heat.

How to Store Leftover Hashbrown Casserole

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

For longer storage, you can freeze the casserole in individual portions.

To reheat, simply cover with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through. This method helps maintain its creamy texture without drying out.

FAQ: Copy Cat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole Recipe

Can I use fresh or dehydrated potatoes instead of frozen hashbrowns?

Yes, fresh or dehydrated potatoes work well! Fresh potatoes should be rinsed and dried thoroughly before using, and dehydrated ones should be rehydrated. You may need to increase the cooking time to make sure the potatoes are fully cooked.

What should I do if my casserole turns out greasy or runny?

Make sure to drain any excess moisture from the hashbrowns before mixing them in. If you notice grease on top, it could be from the type of cheese or butter used—reducing the butter or choosing a different cheese can help reduce greasiness.

Should I cover the casserole when baking?

No, it’s best to bake this casserole uncovered for a crispy, golden top.

How can I make the casserole more flavorful?

For a bolder taste, try adding garlic powder, extra cheese, or even some cooked sausage or bacon. Adjust the seasoning to your liking with salt, pepper, and other spices like paprika or cayenne.