When enjoying Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole, it pairs wonderfully with lighter dishes or proteins that balance its rich, filling texture. Grilled chicken, with its tender and smoky flavor, contrasts beautifully with the creamy casserole, creating a satisfying combination.

Steamed broccoli adds a vibrant green touch, offering a nice crunch and bitterness that helps offset the casserole’s richness. To further lighten the meal, a garden salad with crisp greens and a zesty vinaigrette provides a refreshing bite, bringing a burst of color and freshness to the plate. 

These pairings come together to create a balanced and delicious dining experience.

If you’ve ever dined at Cracker Barrel, you know that their hashbrown casserole is something special. With its creamy texture and cheesy goodness, it’s a dish that can win anyone over. 

Whether you’re cooking for a family gathering or just want a comforting meal, this casserole fits the bill perfectly.

But why stop there? 

I’m here to share my take on this classic, complete with all the tips and tricks I’ve picked up along the way. Having spent countless weekends enjoying this dish myself, I’ve learned how to make it just right. Let’s dig into what makes this recipe so appealing.

What is Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole?

Cracker Barrel hashbrown casserole is essentially a cheesy potato dish. It typically features frozen hash brown potatoes combined with a creamy mixture that includes soup, sour cream, and various seasonings. 

This delectable casserole is baked until it’s bubbly and golden brown. It’s a crowd-pleaser at brunches, potlucks, or even as a side for dinner.

Why This Recipe Works

When creating a dish, certain elements must come together for it to shine. Here’s why my version of the Cracker Barrel hashbrown casserole is so successful:

1. Creamy Texture: The combination of sour cream and creamy soup provides a luscious depth. It’s not just about layering potatoes; the creaminess ensures that every bite is indulgent.
2. Cheese Galore: Using a mix of Colby-Jack or sharp cheddar cheese means that each forkful is cheesy and satisfying. Cheese elevates this dish from ordinary to extraordinary!
3. Flavor Balance: With ingredients like smoked paprika and garlic powder, there’s depth in flavor. These elements keep your taste buds intrigued with each mouthful.
4. Simplicity: The straightforward ingredient list makes this dish accessible. You don’t need to be a seasoned chef to whip it up.

Ingredients You’ll Need to Make This Dish

Gathering ingredients for this casserole is a breeze. Here’s what you’ll need:

• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 can (10 ½ ounces) creamy chicken soup concentrate, or creamy cheddar soup concentrate
• 16 ounces tangy sour cream
• ½ cup minced sweet onion
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 2 cups shredded Colby-Jack cheese, divided (or sharp cheddar cheese)
• 32 ounces frozen hash brown potatoes, melted

You can find these ingredients at your local grocery store. They’re commonly available, making your shopping trip smooth.

How to Make Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole?

Creating this casserole involves a few simple steps. Let’s break it down.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

You want your casserole to cook evenly. So, kick things off by preheating your oven to 350°F. This ensures it’s hot and ready for your delicious creation.

Step 2: Prepare the Mixture

In a large bowl, combine your melted butter, creamy chicken soup, sour cream, minced onion, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Mix well until everything is incorporated. This creamy mixture will envelop the hash browns.

Step 3: Add the Hash Browns

Now, it’s time for the star of the show: the hash browns! Stir in the frozen hash browns. Make sure they’re evenly coated with the creamy mixture. This step is essential for achieving that delightful texture.

Step 4: Fold in the Cheese

Next, add one cup of shredded cheese to the bowl. Storing the other cup for later is a good idea. Mix everything together again until the cheese is evenly distributed.

Step 5: Transfer to Baking Dish

Grab your preferred baking dish and grease it lightly. Pour the mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly. This ensures that every piece of casserole cooks uniformly.

Step 6: Add Topping Cheese

Finish by sprinkling your remaining cheese on top. This creates a nice crust as it bakes.

Step 7: Bake

Place your casserole in the preheated oven. Bake for about 45 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. Resist the urge to check too often; you want to keep the heat in!

Step 8: Serve

Once done, remove it from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes. This resting period allows it to set slightly, making serving easier. Then, dig in!

Tips & Tricks

Here are some of my favorite tips to make your hashbrown casserole even better:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh produce and quality cheese elevate the dish significantly. Don’t substitute with previously opened, less flavorful items.
• Let It Thaw: If you use frozen hash browns, let them thaw and drain any excess water. This prevents your casserole from being too watery.
• Try Different Cheeses: Experiment with different cheeses like gouda or mozzarella for unique flavors and textures.
• Add Protein: Mix in cooked bacon or sausage for a heartier dish. This turns your casserole into a full meal option.
• Top with Green Onions: For added flavor and a pop of color, garnish with sliced green onions before serving.

How Do You Store the Leftovers?

After savoring this dish, you might end up with a few leftovers. Storing them correctly helps maintain freshness.

1. Cool Down: Let the casserole cool to room temperature. This prevents condensation in your storage container.
2. Airtight Container: Transfer the leftovers to an airtight container. This keeps moisture and other odors out.
3. Refrigerate: Store it in the fridge. The casserole will last for about 3-4 days.

When you’re ready for round two, simply reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

What Sides Would Complement Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole?

To round out this meal, consider these side options:

1. Freshly Baked Biscuits: Soft, buttery biscuits make a great pairing. They can soak up the casserole’s creaminess, offering a delightful contrast.
2. Garlic Green Beans: Sauteed green beans with a hint of garlic add a fresh crunch. Their vibrant color brightens the dish visually as well.
3. Coleslaw: A tangy, crunchy coleslaw gives that refreshing bite you need. The coolness of the cabbage salad balances the casserole’s richness.

What Alternatives Can You Use for the Ingredients if They Are Not Present in Your Kitchen?

Not every kitchen is fully stocked, but you can still whip up this casserole with alternatives:

1. Creamy Soup Alternatives: If you lack creamy chicken or cheddar soup, cream of mushroom or mixed vegetable soup can work. Both add a unique flavor twist.
2. Sour Cream Swap: Greek yogurt can substitute sour cream. It offers a similar consistency with added protein.
3. Hash Brown Options: If you don’t have frozen hash browns, shredded potatoes or even tater tots can serve as great substitutes. Each brings its flair to the dish.
4. Cheese Variations: Change things up by using any cheese you have on hand, like mozzarella or Monterey Jack. Each will create a different flavor profile.

Pamela Dunlap

Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole Recipe

When enjoying Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole, it pairs wonderfully with lighter dishes or proteins that balance its rich, filling texture. Grilled chicken, with its tender and smoky flavor, contrasts beautifully with the creamy casserole, creating a satisfying combination.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 45 minutes mins

Total Time 50 minutes mins

Servings: 10

Course: Side Dish

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x?

• ½ cup unsalted butter melted
• 1 can 10 ½ ounces creamy chicken soup concentrate, or creamy cheddar soup concentrate
• 16 ounces tangy sour cream
• ½ cup minced sweet onion
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 2 cups shredded Colby-Jack cheese divided (or sharp cheddar cheese)
• 32 ounces frozen hash brown potatoes melted

Equipment

• Oven
• Large bowl

Method

 

1. You want your casserole to cook evenly. So, kick things off by preheating your oven to 350°F. This ensures it’s hot and ready for your delicious creation.
2. In a large bowl, combine your melted butter, creamy chicken soup, sour cream, minced onion, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Mix well until everything is incorporated. This creamy mixture will envelop the hash browns.
3. Now, it’s time for the star of the show: the hash browns! Stir in the frozen hash browns. Make sure they’re evenly coated with the creamy mixture. This step is essential for achieving that delightful texture.
4. Next, add one cup of shredded cheese to the bowl. Storing the other cup for later is a good idea. Mix everything together again until the cheese is evenly distributed.
5. Grab your preferred baking dish and grease it lightly. Pour the mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly. This ensures that every piece of casserole cooks uniformly.
6. Finish by sprinkling your remaining cheese on top. This creates a nice crust as it bakes.
7. Place your casserole in the preheated oven. Bake for about 45 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. Resist the urge to check too often; you want to keep the heat in!
8. Once done, remove it from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes. This resting period allows it to set slightly, making serving easier. Then, dig in!

Nutrition

Calories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 24gProtein: 12gFat: 22.9gSaturated Fat: 14.3gCholesterol: 61mgSodium: 614mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1g

Notes

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh produce and quality cheese elevate the dish significantly. Don’t substitute with previously opened, less flavorful items.
• Let It Thaw: If you use frozen hash browns, let them thaw and drain any excess water. This prevents your casserole from being too watery.
• Try Different Cheeses: Experiment with different cheeses like gouda or mozzarella for unique flavors and textures.
• Add Protein: Mix in cooked bacon or sausage for a heartier dish. This turns your casserole into a full meal option.
• Top with Green Onions: For added flavor and a pop of color, garnish with sliced green onions before serving.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

Cracker Barrel hashbrown casserole is a go-to comfort dish that can easily become a staple in your home. With its creamy texture, cheesy goodness, and the flexibility to customize, it adapts to various tastes and occasions. 

Whether you’re serving it for brunch, dinner, or as a simple comfort food, it never disappoints. The best part? You don’t need to be a culinary wizard to make it.

So gather your ingredients, rally your loved ones, and get cooking. This casserole is sure to become a favorite, just as it has in my kitchen! Enjoy every cheesy, delicious bite.

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