Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole is a dish that has won the hearts of millions with its creamy, cheesy goodness and comforting flavors. It’s one of those timeless, Southern-style dishes that can be enjoyed at any meal, whether it’s breakfast, brunch, or dinner. But the best part? You don’t have to visit Cracker Barrel to enjoy it—you can recreate this iconic casserole right in your own kitchen.
In this detailed guide, you’ll discover the origins, ingredients, and variations of the Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole, along with expert tips on how to serve, store, and reheat it. Plus, we’ll answer some of the most frequently asked questions about this much-loved dish to ensure you can whip it up with confidence.
Let’s dig into the delicious world of this Southern classic and learn how you can make the perfect hashbrown casserole that will impress your family and friends.
What is Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole?
At its core, Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole is a savory dish made from shredded hashbrowns, cheddar cheese, cream of chicken soup, and sour cream, all combined into a luscious, cheesy mixture and baked until golden and bubbly. It’s the perfect comfort food that pairs well with breakfast staples like bacon and eggs but can also shine as a side dish at dinner.
This dish has become a fan favorite at Cracker Barrel restaurants across the country, known for its ability to evoke memories of family meals and home-cooked comfort. Whether served as a main course or alongside other dishes, the rich, creamy, and cheesy flavor makes it a crowd-pleaser every time.
The History of Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole
Cracker Barrel, founded in 1969, has built its reputation on providing homestyle, Southern-inspired meals, often evoking a sense of nostalgia for simpler times. Among their signature dishes, the Hashbrown Casserole stands out as one of the most beloved side items on their menu. Its simplicity, yet irresistible combination of flavors, has made it a must-have for diners, and it’s no surprise that countless people have tried to recreate this classic dish at home.
While the origins of hashbrown casserole in general may be somewhat unclear, its association with Cracker Barrel has cemented its place as a Southern comfort food classic. Whether you first tried it at one of their restaurants or discovered it through a copycat recipe, the love for this casserole has spread far and wide.
If you’re eager to try your hand at making it, there are many copycat recipes available online, like this one from Spend With Pennies, which provides a clear, step-by-step guide to nailing the flavors at home.
The Essential Ingredients
The magic of the Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole lies in its simplicity. You don’t need any fancy or hard-to-find ingredients to create this dish—just a few staples that you likely already have in your pantry or fridge.
Here’s what you’ll need:
1. Frozen Hashbrowns
- The foundation of the dish. Opt for shredded hashbrowns to achieve the classic texture. You can find these in the frozen section of your grocery store. If you prefer, you can make your own from scratch using fresh potatoes, but frozen hashbrowns are the easiest option.
2. Cheddar Cheese
- Sharp cheddar cheese is typically used for its bold flavor, but you can experiment with other types of cheese if you prefer. Cheese is an essential ingredient for giving the casserole its melty, gooey consistency.
3. Cream of Chicken Soup
- This pantry staple is key to achieving the creamy consistency that’s synonymous with Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole. If you’d like to make a vegetarian version, you can substitute cream of mushroom soup instead.
4. Sour Cream
- Sour cream adds both creaminess and a slight tang to the dish. It helps balance the richness of the cheese and soup.
5. Butter
- Melted butter is a must for adding richness and flavor. It also helps the casserole brown beautifully in the oven.
6. Onions
- Diced onions provide a slight crunch and a savory depth to the casserole. You can sauté them beforehand if you prefer a milder onion flavor.
7. Salt & Pepper
- Simple seasonings like salt and pepper are essential to bring all the flavors together. You can also experiment with garlic powder or paprika for a little extra flavor.
Related Recipe Tip: Explore other hashbrown casseroles for more ideas on how to elevate this classic dish with variations that include different vegetables or meats.
How to Make Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole at Home
Now that you have your ingredients ready, it’s time to put everything together. Don’t worry—this recipe is beginner-friendly and doesn’t require any complicated techniques.
1: Prepare the Hashbrowns
- Begin by thawing your frozen hashbrowns. You can leave them at room temperature for about 30 minutes or microwave them in short bursts until they’re no longer frozen.
- If you’re using fresh potatoes, peel and shred them before squeezing out any excess moisture.
2: Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the following:
- 32 oz of frozen hashbrowns (thawed)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) of cream of chicken soup
- 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup of sour cream
- ½ cup of melted butter
- 1 small diced onion
Stir everything together until it’s evenly mixed. Be sure to distribute the cheese, onions, and other ingredients evenly throughout the hashbrowns.
3: Season and Taste
- Add salt and pepper to taste. You can also sprinkle in some garlic powder or onion powder if you want a little extra flavor.
- Taste the mixture before baking to ensure the seasoning is to your liking. Adjust accordingly.
4: Transfer to Baking Dish
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
- Pour the mixture into the baking dish and spread it out evenly.
5: Bake to Perfection
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake the casserole for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling.
- For an extra crispy top, sprinkle some additional shredded cheese during the last 10 minutes of baking.
6: Serve and Enjoy!
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the casserole to firm up slightly, making it easier to slice and serve.
Whether you’re serving it for breakfast or dinner, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit!
If you’re curious about different versions of this recipe, The Cozy Cook offers helpful suggestions on how to customize your casserole to suit your preferences.
Delicious Variations to Try
One of the great things about Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole is that it’s highly versatile. You can stick to the classic version, or you can add your own flair by incorporating different ingredients. Here are a few variations to inspire you:
1. Cheesy Bacon Hashbrown Casserole
- Add crumbled, crispy bacon to the mixture for an extra smoky flavor.
- Top with more cheese and bacon bits for a loaded, savory dish.
2. Ham and Cheese Hashbrown Casserole
- Mix in diced ham to make the casserole more filling. This version is perfect for brunch or even dinner.
- Swap out cheddar for Swiss cheese if you prefer a different flavor profile.
3. Spicy Jalapeño Hashbrown Casserole
- Add diced jalapeños to the mixture for a little heat.
- For extra crunch, you can sprinkle crushed tortilla chips on top before baking.
4. Vegetarian Hashbrown Casserole
- Substitute cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom soup for a vegetarian-friendly version.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers for additional texture and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole is a versatile dish that pairs well with many different types of meals. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or as part of a main course, here are some great options to consider:
1. Breakfast Spread
- Pair the casserole with scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, and sausage links for a hearty breakfast.
- Add pancakes or waffles for a sweet and savory combination.
2. Brunch Buffet
- Serve the casserole alongside a variety of quiches, breakfast sandwiches, and fruit salads for a crowd-pleasing brunch buffet.
- A side of roasted vegetables or a green salad will balance the richness of the casserole.
3. Potluck Favorite
- Bring this casserole to potlucks, where it’s sure to be a hit. It holds up well on buffet tables and can be served warm or at room temperature.
- Pair it with roasted meats, like chicken or pork, for a complete meal.
Storing and Reheating Tips
One of the great things about Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole is that it stores well, making it perfect for leftovers or meal prep. Here’s how to store and reheat your casserole for the best results:
How to Store It
- Refrigerator: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: You can also freeze the casserole for up to 3 months. To freeze, transfer the fully cooked and cooled casserole to a freezer-safe container or wrap the dish tightly in foil.
How to Reheat It
- Oven: Reheat the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. This method helps preserve the crispy texture on top.
- Microwave: For a quicker option, microwave individual servings for 2-3 minutes, though the top may not stay as crispy.
Looking for more make-ahead ideas? Check out Easy Ground Beef Recipes for dishes you can prepare in advance and freeze for later.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Can I Use Fresh Potatoes Instead of Frozen Hashbrowns?
Absolutely! If you prefer to use fresh potatoes, simply peel and shred them. However, you’ll need to remove some of the moisture by patting the potatoes dry with a paper towel or pressing them in a clean cloth. Fresh potatoes tend to release more water, so be sure to monitor the baking time.
Q2. Can I Make the Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes, this casserole is perfect for making ahead. You can assemble the dish up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and let it come to room temperature before baking. You can also freeze the unbaked casserole and bake it straight from the freezer, though you may need to add 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
Q3. What’s the Secret to a Crispy Top?
For a crispy top, sprinkle additional shredded cheese on top during the last 10 minutes of baking. You can also turn on the broiler for 2-3 minutes at the end—just be sure to keep an eye on it to prevent burning!
Related Tip: For more inspiration on how to enhance traditional dishes, browse What Makes Bisquick Not Rise for insights into perfecting baked goods, which can complement your casserole.
Conclusion
Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole is a beloved dish for a reason. With its creamy, cheesy, and flavorful layers, it’s the ultimate comfort food that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, brunch, or dinner, this casserole is sure to please.
With the tips, variations, and step-by-step instructions outlined in this guide, you’ll be able to recreate the classic Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole with confidence. So go ahead and give it a try—you might just find yourself making it again and again!
