Easy Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole Recipe for Busy Nights

If you’ve ever dined at Cracker Barrel, you know their Hashbrown Casserole is one of the most beloved comfort foods on the menu.

This creamy, cheesy, and irresistibly golden-brown dish has won the hearts of many, making it a must-have for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner.

The good news? You don’t have to wait for a restaurant visit to enjoy it! With this easy Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole recipe, you can recreate the same rich, comforting flavors at home with just a handful of ingredients.

Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just craving some warm, cheesy goodness, this recipe is guaranteed to satisfy.

Why You’ll Love This Hashbrown Casserole

1. Quick and Easy to Make

This recipe requires minimal prep time—simply mix, bake, and enjoy! No complicated steps or special skills needed.

2. Made with Simple Ingredients

Everything you need for this casserole is likely already in your kitchen.

From frozen hashbrowns to shredded cheese and a few pantry staples, it’s an effortless dish with maximum flavor.

3. Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you’re making breakfast for the family, preparing a holiday side dish, or bringing something comforting to a potluck, this hashbrown casserole fits every occasion.

4. Creamy, Cheesy, and Comforting

The combination of tender hashbrowns, gooey melted cheese, and a rich, creamy base creates the ultimate comfort food experience. One bite, and you’ll see why it’s a Cracker Barrel favorite!

5. Great for Meal Prep

Make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freezer for an easy heat-and-serve meal whenever you need it.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole, you’ll need just a few simple, pantry-friendly ingredients.

These come together to create a rich, cheesy, and creamy dish that tastes just like the restaurant version.

Main Ingredients:

• Frozen Hashbrowns (Shredded or Diced) – The base of the casserole, providing texture and heartiness. No need to thaw!
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Sharp cheddar gives the best flavor, but feel free to mix in Monterey Jack or Colby for extra cheesiness.
• Sour Cream – Adds a tangy creaminess that balances the richness.
• Cream of Chicken Soup – The secret ingredient that gives the casserole its signature creamy consistency.
• Butter (Melted) – Enhances the flavor and helps with that golden, crispy top.
• Onion (Finely Chopped) – Adds a bit of bite and savory depth.
• Salt & Black Pepper – Simple seasonings that enhance all the flavors.

Optional Add-Ins:

• Cooked Bacon or Ham – For an extra protein boost.
• Green Onions or Chives – A fresh touch for garnish.
• Crushed Cornflakes or Ritz Crackers – If you like a crispy topping.

Now that you have everything ready, let’s get cooking!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine:

• Frozen hashbrowns
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Sour cream
• Cream of chicken soup
• Melted butter
• Finely chopped onion
• Salt and pepper

Stir everything together until the hashbrowns are evenly coated with the creamy mixture.

Step 3: Transfer to the Baking Dish

Pour the mixture into the greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

If you’re adding a crunchy topping (like crushed crackers or cornflakes), sprinkle it on now.

Step 4: Bake Until Golden and Bubbly

Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.

Step 5: Let It Rest and Serve

Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving.

This helps it set and makes scooping easier. Garnish with fresh chives or green onions if desired.

Tips for the Best Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole

Want to make your hashbrown casserole even better?

Follow these simple tips to achieve the perfect balance of creaminess, cheesiness, and crispiness.

1. Use Frozen Hashbrowns—No Need to Thaw!

It might be tempting to thaw the hashbrowns first, but using them frozen helps maintain the right texture.

If they thaw completely, they might become too soft and watery.

2. Don’t Skip the Butter

Melted butter not only adds rich flavor but also helps achieve that perfectly golden, slightly crispy top.

3. Shred Your Own Cheese for Better Melt

Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can prevent smooth melting.

For the creamiest casserole, shred fresh cheddar from a block.

4. Make It Extra Crispy on Top

For a crunchy finish, add a topping of crushed Ritz crackers, cornflakes, or panko breadcrumbs mixed with a little melted butter before baking.

5. Let It Rest Before Serving

Allowing the casserole to sit for 5-10 minutes after baking helps it set, making it easier to serve without falling apart.

6. Double the Recipe for a Crowd

This dish is a favorite at gatherings, so if you’re serving a big group, double the ingredients and bake in a larger dish or two separate pans.

7. Add a Kick of Flavor

For a little spice, mix in chopped jalapeños, hot sauce, or a pinch of cayenne pepper to give your casserole a subtle heat.

Variations and Add-Ins

Want to customize your Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole? Try these delicious variations to make it your own!

1. Protein-Packed Version

Turn your casserole into a full meal by adding:

• Cooked and crumbled bacon for a smoky, salty kick
• Diced ham for a classic breakfast casserole
• Shredded rotisserie chicken to make it a hearty dinner option

2. Spicy & Zesty Twist

Add a little heat and extra flavor by mixing in:

• Chopped jalapeños or green chilies
• A dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper
• Pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for a spicier kick

3. Gluten-Free Option

Make this casserole gluten-free by:

• Using gluten-free cream of chicken soup
• Skipping cracker toppings or using gluten-free alternatives

4. Extra Cheesy Upgrade

If you’re a cheese lover, go all in with a mix of:

• Cheddar + Monterey Jack for a creamy, melty finish
• Colby Jack or Mozzarella for a milder, stretchier texture
• Parmesan sprinkled on top for an added sharp bite

5. Healthier (But Still Delicious) Version

Want a lighter take on this dish? Try:

• Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for extra protein
• Reduced-fat cheese and butter to cut calories
• Diced cauliflower mixed with hashbrowns for a veggie boost

Storage and Reheating Instructions

If you have leftovers (or want to make this casserole ahead of time), proper storage and reheating will keep it just as delicious as when it was freshly baked.

How to Store Leftovers

• Refrigerator: Store leftover hashbrown casserole in an airtight container or cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap. It will stay fresh for 3-4 days in the fridge.
• Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the casserole in a freezer-safe container or wrap the entire dish with aluminum foil and plastic wrap. It will last for up to 3 months in the freezer.

How to Reheat Hashbrown Casserole

1. In the Oven (Best Method)

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Cover the casserole with foil to prevent it from drying out.
• Bake for 20-25 minutes (or 30-35 minutes if reheating from frozen).
• Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes to get a crispy top.

2. In the Microwave (Quick Method)

• Place a portion on a microwave-safe plate.
• Heat on medium power in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until heated through.
• To keep it from drying out, cover the plate with a damp paper towel.

3. On the Stovetop (For Small Portions)

• Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat.
• Add a little butter or oil and cook the casserole for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.

Final Thoughts

This Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole recipe brings all the cozy, cheesy goodness of the restaurant classic straight to your kitchen.

Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, brunch, or as a side dish for dinner, it’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.

The best part? It’s incredibly versatile—you can make it ahead, freeze it, customize it with your favorite mix-ins, and reheat it with ease.

So go ahead, whip up a batch, and enjoy this comforting, creamy casserole whenever the craving hits!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator.

When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before placing it in the oven.

2. Can I freeze this casserole before baking?

Absolutely! Prepare the casserole as directed, but don’t bake it. Cover it well and freeze for up to 3 months.

When ready to bake, let it thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as usual.

3. What can I use instead of cream of chicken soup?

If you prefer a homemade version, mix 1 cup of heavy cream or milk, 2 tablespoons of flour, and a dash of chicken broth to create a quick alternative.

You can also use cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup for a different flavor.

4. Can I add vegetables to this casserole?

Yes! Diced bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach, or broccoli make great additions.

Just make sure to sauté them first to remove excess moisture.

5. How do I make this casserole crispier on top?

For a crispier topping, add crushed Ritz crackers, cornflakes, or panko breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter before baking.

You can also broil the casserole for 1-2 minutes at the end for extra crunch.