Cracker Barrel-Style Hashbrown Casserole

There’s nothing more comforting than the warm, cheesy goodness of Cracker Barrel-Style Hashbrown Casserole. Whether you’ve enjoyed it at the iconic restaurant or are trying it for the first time at home, this dish is the ultimate comfort food. Perfect for brunch, potlucks, holidays, or even a quick weeknight side dish, this recipe gives you the creamy, savory, and cheesy flavors you love—all made easily in your own kitchen.

Imagine pulling a bubbling, golden casserole from the oven, its rich aroma filling the room as your family gathers around. This guide will take you step-by-step through creating a perfect Cracker Barrel-Style Hashbrown Casserole using simple, budget-friendly ingredients.

Let’s get started on this irresistible dish!

Why You’ll Love This Cracker Barrel-Style Hashbrown Casserole

There’s a reason this dish is so popular—it checks all the boxes for an easy and satisfying meal!

• Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples you likely already have.
• Quick Prep: Assemble the dish in 10 minutes—no complicated steps required.
• Crowd Favorite: Ideal for holidays, potlucks, or family gatherings.
• Customizable: Add your favorite ingredients like bacon, ham, or veggies.
• Leftovers: Tastes just as amazing the next day, making it perfect for meal prep.

Ingredients for Cracker Barrel-Style Hashbrown Casserole

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious casserole. Simple, easy-to-find ingredients come together for a creamy and cheesy masterpiece!

Main Ingredients

Ingredient	Amount	Notes
Frozen hashbrowns (thawed)	30-32 oz	Use shredded hashbrowns for best texture
Butter (melted)	½ cup	Adds richness and flavor
Bouillon (optional)	1 tsp	Chicken, mushroom, or vegetable flavor
Onion (finely chopped)	1 medium	Adds a subtle savory bite
Sour cream or plain Greek yogurt	2 cups (16 oz)	Choose full-fat for creaminess
Shredded cheese	2-3 cups	Colby Jack or Sharp Cheddar recommended
Kosher salt	1-2 tsp (to taste)	Adjust to your preference
Black pepper	¼ – ½ tsp	Adds depth and mild spice

How to Make Cracker Barrel-Style Hashbrown Casserole

Follow these easy steps to bring the rich and comforting flavors of the classic restaurant dish to your kitchen.

1. Prepare the Casserole Mixture

• Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Grease the Dish: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.

Combine the Ingredients:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the following:
   • Melted butter
   • Bouillon (if using)
   • Finely chopped onion
   • Sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
   • 2 cups of shredded cheese
   • Kosher salt and black pepper to taste
2. Stir everything together until well combined.

2. Add the Hashbrowns

• Fold the thawed hashbrowns into the creamy cheese mixture.
• Use a spatula or large spoon to ensure the hashbrowns are evenly coated with the mixture.

Tip: Be gentle while mixing so the hashbrowns don’t break apart too much.

3. Assemble the Casserole

• Spread the hashbrown mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
• Sprinkle the reserved ½-1 cup of shredded cheese evenly over the top.

This step gives the casserole its golden, gooey finish!

4. Bake the Casserole

• Place the baking dish in the preheated oven.
• Bake for 40-50 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese on top is golden brown.

Test for Doneness: The edges should be slightly crisp, and the center should be hot and set.

5. Cool and Serve

• Allow the casserole to cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps the casserole set, making it easier to cut and serve neat portions.

Tips for the Perfect Hashbrown Casserole

1. Thaw the Hashbrowns: Make sure your hashbrowns are completely thawed to ensure even cooking.
2. Use Quality Cheese: Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-shredded varieties.
3. Bouillon Boost: Adding bouillon enhances the overall flavor, so don’t skip it if you can help it!
4. Don’t Overbake: Bake until bubbly and golden—overbaking can dry out the casserole.
5. Add Toppings: Sprinkle breadcrumbs, crispy bacon, or green onions for extra texture and flavor.

Customizing Your Hashbrown Casserole

Make this recipe your own with these easy variations:

1. Add Protein

• Mix in cooked ham, bacon, or breakfast sausage for a heartier dish.

2. Boost the Veggies

• Add diced bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.

3. Spice It Up

• Sprinkle a pinch of cayenne pepper or paprika for a touch of heat.

4. Make It Gluten-Free

• Double-check that your bouillon and other ingredients are gluten-free, and you’re good to go!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a general breakdown of the nutritional content per serving (based on 8 servings):

Nutrient	Amount Per Serving
Calories	350-400 kcal
Protein	8-10 g
Carbohydrates	30-35 g
Fat	20-25 g
Sodium	600-700 mg

Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on specific ingredients used.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make Cracker Barrel-Style Hashbrown Casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate it overnight. Bake it fresh the next day.

2. Can I freeze hashbrown casserole?
Absolutely. Once baked and cooled, store the casserole in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

3. What’s the best cheese to use?
Colby Jack and Sharp Cheddar work beautifully, but you can experiment with Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or Gouda for different flavors.

4. Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hashbrowns?
Yes, but you’ll need to shred them and squeeze out the excess moisture first. Frozen hashbrowns are a more convenient option.

5. How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat individual portions in the microwave, or warm the entire dish in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes.

6. Is sour cream necessary for this recipe?
Sour cream adds creaminess and tang, but you can substitute it with plain Greek yogurt for a slightly healthier option.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Cracker Barrel-Style Hashbrown Casserole with these delicious dishes for a complete meal:

• Scrambled eggs and bacon for a hearty breakfast.
• Grilled chicken or steak for dinner.
• Fresh green salads or steamed vegetables for balance.

Conclusion

This Cracker Barrel-Style Hashbrown Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—warm, cheesy, and irresistibly creamy. It’s a simple dish that’s easy to make but leaves a big impression on your family and guests. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, brunch, or dinner, it’s guaranteed to be a hit!

So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and whip up this delicious casserole that’ll make everyone ask for seconds.

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