Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole is a beloved comfort dish that brings warmth and flavor to your table with minimal effort. This cheesy, creamy casserole is a staple at potlucks, family gatherings, and holiday breakfasts. Its appeal lies in its simplicity and the perfect blend of flavors and textures—crispy on top, creamy and cheesy inside. Inspired by the famous dish served at Cracker Barrel restaurants, this homemade version uses convenient frozen hashbrowns, making it a quick and easy recipe that anyone can master.
This casserole is the epitome of comfort food. The use of frozen hashbrowns saves time and effort, while the combination of melted butter, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and Colby cheese ensures a rich, creamy texture. The finely chopped onions add a slight crunch and a hint of sweetness, balancing the savory flavors perfectly. Whether you’re looking for a hearty breakfast, a satisfying side dish, or a crowd-pleasing potluck contribution, this hashbrown casserole is sure to be a hit.
Below, you’ll find the detailed recipe for making Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole at home, along with tips for variations and substitutions to customize the dish to your liking.
Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole Recipe
Ingredients
32 ounces frozen shredded hash browns, defrosted
½ cup melted butter
1 (10 ¼ ounce) can of cream of chicken soup (or cream of cheddar)
1 pint sour cream
½ cup finely chopped onion
2 cups grated Colby cheese
¼ teaspoon pepper
Instructions
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish and set aside.
Combine Ingredients:
In a large bowl, mix together the defrosted hash browns, melted butter, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, chopped onion, grated Colby cheese, and pepper. Reserve ½ cup of cheese for topping.
Transfer to Baking Dish:
Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared casserole dish. Sprinkle the reserved cheese on top.
Bake:
Bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, or until the casserole is hot, bubbly, and golden brown on top.
Serve:
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy as a side dish or a main course for breakfast or brunch.
Variations
Bacon Hashbrown Casserole:
Add 1 cup of cooked and crumbled bacon to the mixture for a savory twist.
Spicy Hashbrown Casserole:
Mix in 1-2 diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Vegetarian Option:
Use cream of mushroom soup instead of cream of chicken soup and add 1 cup of sautéed mushrooms.
Cheesy Overload:
Substitute half of the Colby cheese with sharp cheddar or Monterey Jack for a more intense cheese flavor.
Substitutions
Low-Fat Option:
Use reduced-fat sour cream and low-fat cheese to cut down on calories.
Gluten-Free Version:
Ensure the cream of chicken soup is gluten-free or make a homemade version with gluten-free ingredients.
Dairy-Free Casserole:
Substitute dairy ingredients with plant-based alternatives like vegan cheese, dairy-free sour cream, and coconut oil or a dairy-free butter substitute.
Healthier Swap:
Replace frozen hashbrowns with freshly grated potatoes for a more natural approach.
Conclusion
Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole is a classic dish that brings a comforting, cheesy delight to any meal. Its ease of preparation and delicious flavors make it a favorite for family gatherings, holidays, and potlucks. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this casserole can be quickly assembled and baked to perfection. The variations and substitutions allow you to tailor the dish to your taste and dietary needs, ensuring that everyone can enjoy this comforting casserole. So, gather your ingredients and experience the joy of homemade comfort food with this delectable hashbrown casserole.