Cracker Barrel Hash Brown Casserole: A Comforting Classic You Can Make at Home

Few dishes scream comfort like the Cracker Barrel Hash Brown Casserole. Whether it’s served alongside breakfast, brunch, or dinner, this cheesy, creamy delight is sure to bring joy to your table. But what if you could recreate this magic at home? With just a few ingredients and some easy steps, you’ll have the perfect copycat recipe that matches the rich flavors of the original.

The Magic of Cracker Barrel Hash Brown Casserole

Have you ever taken a bite of something so comforting it instantly feels like a hug on a plate? That’s exactly what Cracker Barrel’s Hash Brown Casserole delivers. It’s warm, cheesy, and irresistibly golden. What makes it so special? The combination of shredded hash browns, melted Colby cheese, creamy chicken soup, and a touch of seasoning creates the ultimate casserole for any occasion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a quick look at the ingredients required to whip up this crowd-pleasing casserole.

Ingredient	Quantity
Refrigerated shredded hash browns	2 (20-ounce) packages
Kosher salt	1 1/2 teaspoons
Garlic powder	1/4 teaspoon
Black pepper	1/4 teaspoon
Condensed cream of chicken soup	2/3 cup (half of a 10.5-ounce can)
Unsalted butter, melted	1/2 cup (1 stick)
Yellow onion, finely chopped	1 small (about 1/2 cup)
Shredded Colby cheese	8 ounces

Step-By-Step Instructions

Recreating this iconic dish is easier than you think! Just follow these simple steps to make your own Cracker Barrel Hash Brown Casserole.

1. Preheat Your Oven

Set your oven to 400°F. While it heats up, grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

2. Prepare the Hash Browns

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded hash browns with kosher salt, garlic powder, and black pepper. Gently toss everything together with a silicone spatula to distribute the spices evenly.

3. Add the Creamy Ingredients

Next, stir in the condensed cream of chicken soup, melted butter, and finely chopped onion. These ingredients bring moisture and depth of flavor to the casserole.

4. Fold in the Cheese

Gently fold in the shredded Colby cheese. This ensures every bite is infused with gooey, cheesy goodness.

5. Assemble the Casserole

Spoon the mixture into your prepared baking dish. Be careful not to press down too firmly—this keeps the casserole light and fluffy.

6. Bake to Perfection

Bake the casserole for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crisp. The cheese throughout the dish creates a beautiful orange-golden color, giving it a signature look and irresistible texture.

Tips for Perfect Hash Brown Casserole

To take your casserole to the next level, here are a few expert tips:

• Cheese Choice: While Colby cheese is closest to the original recipe, you can experiment with sharp cheddar or Monterey Jack for a unique twist.
• Extra Crunch: If you prefer a crispy topping, sprinkle some panko breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter over the casserole before baking.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the casserole the night before and refrigerate it. When you’re ready to serve, bake it fresh for the best results.
• Custom Additions: Mix in diced ham, cooked bacon, or green chilies for a flavor boost.

Why This Recipe Works

This copycat Cracker Barrel Hash Brown Casserole captures the essence of the restaurant favorite while allowing you to customize it to your taste. The balance of creamy, cheesy, and savory elements ensures every bite is indulgent and satisfying.

How to Serve Your Casserole

This casserole is versatile enough to pair with various dishes:

• Breakfast: Serve it alongside scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, or sausage links for a hearty start to the day.
• Brunch: Pair it with a fresh green salad and fruit platter for a lighter mid-morning meal.
• Dinner: Use it as a comforting side dish for roasted chicken, steak, or glazed ham.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Per Serving
Calories	~250
Total Fat	~15g
Saturated Fat	~9g
Cholesterol	~45mg
Sodium	~480mg
Total Carbohydrates	~22g
Protein	~7g

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on exact ingredients used.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use frozen hash browns instead of refrigerated ones?

Yes, frozen hash browns work just as well. Thaw them completely and pat them dry to remove excess moisture before using.

2. Can I substitute cream of chicken soup with a different soup?

Certainly! Cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup are excellent alternatives for a different flavor profile.

3. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

4. Can I make this casserole gluten-free?

Absolutely. Use a gluten-free condensed soup and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

5. Is it possible to freeze the casserole?

Yes, you can freeze it! Assemble the casserole without baking, wrap it tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, bake it directly from frozen, adding an extra 15–20 minutes to the baking time.

6. What other cheeses can I use?

Mozzarella, Swiss, or even Pepper Jack cheese can add unique flavors to the dish.

Final Thoughts and Call to Action

There’s something incredibly special about recreating a restaurant favorite at home. This Cracker Barrel Hash Brown Casserole recipe brings the same heartwarming flavors to your kitchen while offering the flexibility to make it your own. Whether you’re cooking for family gatherings, holiday feasts, or a simple weeknight dinner, this casserole is sure to become a household favorite.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and start baking! Your family and friends will thank you for bringing this comfort classic to the table.

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