Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole

This Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole is a delightful dish that brings the warmth of comfort food to your table. Perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or a cozy dinner at home, this casserole is packed with cheesy goodness and hearty hashbrowns. Its creamy texture and rich flavors make it a crowd-pleaser that everyone will enjoy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can have this casserole ready to bake in no time.
• Deliciously Cheesy: The combination of cheddar cheese and sour cream creates a creamy, decadent flavor that’s hard to resist.
• Versatile Serving Options: This dish works well as a side for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, making it perfect for any occasion.
• Crowd-Pleasing Comfort Food: It’s a guaranteed hit at family gatherings or potlucks—everyone loves cheesy hashbrowns!
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it in advance and simply pop it in the oven when you’re ready to serve.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools will make your cooking experience smoother. Here are some essential items you’ll need to create the Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Baking pan (9×11 inch)
• Measuring spoons
• Non-stick cooking spray
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A spacious mixing bowl allows you to combine all ingredients thoroughly without spills.
• Baking pan: The 9×11 inch size is ideal for even cooking and perfect portion sizes.
• Measuring spoons: Accurate measurements ensure your flavors are balanced, especially with seasonings like salt and pepper.

Ingredients

To prepare the Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole, gather the following ingredients:

For the Casserole

• 1 bag (30 oz) frozen hash browns, thawed
• 8 tbsp (1 stick) butter, melted
• 1 can (10 ¾ oz.) condensed cream of chicken soup
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded, divided
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp pepper

How to Make Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready when you assemble your casserole.

Step 2: Mix Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Combine chopped onion, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper.
2. Add in the sour cream and cream of chicken soup, mixing until well combined.
3. Gently fold in the thawed hash browns and melted butter, ensuring everything is evenly coated.

Step 3: Prepare the Baking Pan

1. Grease your 9×11 inch baking pan with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Spoon the hash brown mixture into the pan, spreading it out evenly.
3. Top with the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.

Step 4: Bake

Place the baking pan in your preheated oven. Bake for 45-60 minutes until golden brown and bubbly on top.

Enjoy this comforting Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole as a delicious side dish or main meal!

How to Serve Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole

This delicious Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole is perfect for family gatherings or casual dinners. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

Breakfast Burritos

• Use the hashbrown casserole as a filling for breakfast burritos. Just scoop some into a tortilla, add scrambled eggs, and roll it up for a hearty breakfast on-the-go.

With Eggs

• Serve alongside scrambled or fried eggs. The creamy texture of the casserole complements the fluffy eggs perfectly, making for a satisfying breakfast or brunch.

On a Buffet

• Offer it as part of a buffet spread at your next gathering. Guests will love the cheesy goodness, and it pairs well with various main dishes.

Topped with Salsa

• Add some zing by topping each serving with salsa or pico de gallo. This fresh addition enhances flavors and adds a bit of heat.

As a Side Dish

• Enjoy it as a side dish with grilled meats. The richness of the casserole balances well with the smoky flavors of barbecued chicken or ribs.

Pin for later!

How to Perfect Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole

For an unforgettable hashbrown casserole experience, follow these tips to elevate your dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly chopped onions and high-quality cheese will make your casserole taste even better.
• Adjust Cheese Levels: If you love cheese, feel free to add more than the suggested amount for an extra cheesy bite.
• Experiment with Spices: Try adding garlic powder or paprika for additional flavor dimensions that complement the dish wonderfully.
• Cook Until Golden: Bake until the top is golden brown for that delightful crunchy texture while keeping the inside creamy.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the casserole to sit for about 10 minutes after baking helps it set and makes serving easier.
• Freezing Tips: You can prepare this dish in advance and freeze it. Just thaw before baking, adjusting cooking time accordingly.

Best Side Dishes for Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole

Pairing side dishes with your Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole can enhance your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Grilled Vegetables: Colorful grilled veggies like bell peppers and zucchini provide a fresh contrast to the rich casserole.
2. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad adds sweetness and balances out the savory flavors of the casserole.
3. Green Salad: A light green salad with vinaigrette can help cut through the creaminess of the dish while adding crunch.
4. Bacon or Sausage: Crispy bacon or sausage links make a hearty addition that complements breakfast flavors beautifully.
5. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread pairs nicely, offering a delightful texture contrast and enhancing Southern flavors.
6. Roasted Potatoes: Serve roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs for another comforting side that everyone will enjoy.
7. Pickles: Tangy pickles provide a nice acidity that cuts through richness, making them an excellent crunchy side option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

This section highlights some common mistakes when preparing the Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole. Avoiding these will ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.

• Using Frozen Hashbrowns Without Thawing: Always thaw your hashbrowns before mixing them. This prevents excess water from ruining the texture of your casserole.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Properly: Be precise with your measurements, especially for salt and cheese. Too much or too little can significantly affect the taste.
• Skipping the Greasing Step: Failing to grease your baking pan may cause the casserole to stick, making it difficult to serve. Always use non-stick cooking spray.
• Overbaking or Underbaking: Keep an eye on your casserole while it’s in the oven. Baking it too long can dry it out, while not baking long enough can leave it soggy.
• Omitting Seasonings: Some may think salt and pepper are optional, but they are crucial for flavor. Don’t skip them to enhance your dish’s taste.

Pin for later!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• The casserole will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole

• Allow the casserole to cool completely before freezing.
• Use a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Place a portion in a microwave-safe dish and heat on high for 1-2 minutes or until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole?

Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole is a cheesy, creamy dish made from hashbrowns, cheese, sour cream, and seasonings that mimics the beloved restaurant version.

Can I customize this recipe?

Yes! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition. You can also experiment with different cheese types for unique flavors.

How do I make this dish gluten-free?

To make a gluten-free version of Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole, ensure you use gluten-free cream of chicken soup or make your own using cornstarch as a thickener.

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator overnight before baking it the next day.

Is this casserole suitable for large gatherings?

Yes! This recipe serves six but can easily be doubled or tripled for larger gatherings. Just adjust the baking time accordingly.

Final Thoughts

The Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. It’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion where comfort food is needed. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients and enjoy!