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Cracker Barrel Recipe for Hashbrown Casserole (Homemade Copycat That Never Disappoints)
The Cracker Barrel recipe for hashbrown casserole is one of those comfort dishes people crave again and again. Creamy, cheesy, and baked until golden, this homemade copycat delivers the same taste and texture you love from Cracker Barrel, but made easily at home. In this guide, you’ll learn exactly what goes into the Cracker Barrel recipe for hashbrown casserole, why sour cream matters, how to avoid watery results, and how to thicken hashbrown casserole the right way. Learn more about cozy comfort meals by visiting https://www.hightasty.com/slow-cooker-soups-and-stews/.
Cracker Barrel recipe
Equipment
- oven
- large mixing bowl
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- baking dish
- clean kitchen towel
Ingredients
- 32 oz frozen shredded hash browns, thawed and drained
- 2 cups sour cream
- 1 can cream of chicken soup (10.5 oz)
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
- Thaw the frozen hash browns completely and squeeze out excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel.
- In a large bowl, mix sour cream, cream of chicken soup, melted butter, shredded cheese, onion, salt, and black pepper.
- Gently fold the drained hash browns into the mixture until evenly coated.
- Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- Bake uncovered for 45–50 minutes, until bubbly and lightly golden on top.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Notes
Nutrition
Cracker Barrel Recipe for Hashbrown Casserole Explained
Why the Cracker Barrel Recipe for Hashbrown Casserole Is So Popular
The Cracker Barrel recipe for hashbrown casserole stands out because it balances creaminess with structure. Every bite feels rich but not heavy, cheesy but not greasy. This is why the Cracker Barrel hashbrown casserole has become a signature side dish across the USA.
What Makes This Homemade Copycat Taste Authentic
This homemade Cracker Barrel recipe for hashbrown casserole uses the same flavor-building ingredients and baking method that create the iconic texture people expect. Discover great ideas like seasonal comfort dishes at https://www.hightasty.com/slow-cooker-autumn-recipes/.
What Is the Hashbrown Casserole at Cracker Barrel Made Of
Core Ingredients in Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole
The Cracker Barrel recipe for hashbrown casserole is made with frozen shredded hash browns, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, melted butter, sharp cheddar cheese, finely chopped onion, salt, and pepper. These simple ingredients create a creamy, scoopable casserole.
Ingredient Roles and Flavor Impact
Each ingredient has a purpose. Sour cream adds tang, cheese adds richness, and butter keeps the casserole moist. Check out balanced eating inspiration at https://www.hightasty.com/mediterranean-diet-anti-inflammatory-recipes/.
Ingredients for Hash Brown Casserole (Copycat Style)
Full Ingredient List for Cracker Barrel Recipe for Hashbrown Casserole
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Frozen shredded hash browns (thawed) | 32 oz |
| Sour cream | 2 cups |
| Cream of chicken soup | 1 can |
| Sharp cheddar cheese | 2 cups |
| Melted butter | ½ cup |
| Onion (finely chopped) | ½ cup |
| Salt | 1 tsp |
| Black pepper | ½ tsp |
Optional Add-Ins Without Losing Authenticity
While the classic Cracker Barrel recipe for hashbrown casserole stays simple, small additions like bacon bits can work if used sparingly. Looking for inspiration? Try https://www.hightasty.com/gelatin-trick-for-weight-loss-recipe/.
Step-by-Step Homemade Copycat Hashbrown Casserole
Preparing Hash Browns the Right Way
Thaw the hash browns fully and squeeze out excess moisture. This step is critical for any successful Cracker Barrel recipe for hashbrown casserole.
Baking Instructions for Perfect Texture
Preheat oven to 350°F. Mix all ingredients until well combined. Spread into a greased baking dish and bake uncovered for 45–50 minutes until bubbly and golden. Don’t miss our slow-cooked comfort favorite at https://www.hightasty.com/slow-cooker-butter-chicken/.
Does Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole Have Sour Cream
Why Sour Cream Is Non-Negotiable
Yes, the Cracker Barrel recipe for hashbrown casserole absolutely includes sour cream. It provides creaminess and prevents dryness.
Best Sour Cream Alternatives
Greek yogurt works in a pinch, but the flavor changes slightly. For the real Cracker Barrel hashbrown casserole taste, sour cream is best.
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How to Thicken Up Hashbrown Casserole
Common Causes of Thin Casserole
Excess moisture from frozen potatoes is the main reason a Cracker Barrel recipe for hashbrown casserole turns watery.
Proven Thickening Tips
Bake uncovered longer, add extra cheese, or reduce butter slightly. These steps help thicken hashbrown casserole naturally.
Why Is My Hash Brown Casserole Watery
Moisture Control Mistakes
Skipping the draining step is the most common issue when making Cracker Barrel hashbrown casserole at home.
How to Fix It After Baking
Return the dish to the oven uncovered for 10–15 minutes to evaporate excess liquid. Check out another cozy dinner idea at https://www.hightasty.com/slow-cooker-chicken-lasagna-soup/.
What Oil Is Best for Cooking Hash Browns
Best Oils for Crisp Results
Vegetable oil, canola oil, and avocado oil are best for cooking hash browns separately.
Butter vs Oil Comparison
Butter adds flavor but burns easily, so combining butter and oil works best.
FAQ – People Also Ask About Cracker Barrel Recipe for Hashbrown Casserole
What is the hashbrown casserole at Cracker Barrel made of
The Cracker Barrel recipe for hashbrown casserole uses hash browns, sour cream, soup, cheese, butter, onion, and seasoning.
What are the ingredients for hash brown casserole
Frozen hash browns, sour cream, cheddar cheese, cream soup, butter, and onion.
Does Cracker Barrel hashbrown casserole have sour cream
Yes, sour cream is essential for the classic texture.
How to thicken up hashbrown casserole
Drain hash browns well and bake uncovered.
Why is my hash brown casserole watery
Excess moisture from frozen potatoes causes watery results.
What oil is best for cooking hash browns
Neutral oils like canola or vegetable oil work best.
Pro Tips for the Best Cracker Barrel Recipe for Hashbrown Casserole
Pro Tips to Nail the Authentic Cracker Barrel Texture
For the most authentic Cracker Barrel recipe for hashbrown casserole, always thaw frozen hash browns completely and squeeze them dry. This single step controls moisture and keeps the casserole thick and creamy instead of soupy. Also, shred your own cheddar cheese rather than using pre-shredded bags, because freshly shredded cheese melts smoother and improves texture.
Pro Tips to Boost Flavor Without Changing the Classic Taste
Melt the butter gently and let it cool slightly before mixing. This helps the sauce blend evenly instead of separating. Finely chop the onion so it melts into the casserole while baking, which keeps the flavor balanced and prevents crunchy bites. Season lightly at first, then adjust after baking if needed, since cheese and soup already add salt.
Pro Tips for Baking and Serving Success
Bake the Cracker Barrel recipe for hashbrown casserole uncovered to allow excess moisture to evaporate. Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes after baking so it firms up and slices cleanly. For gatherings, this casserole reheats well at 325°F, staying creamy without drying out, which makes it perfect for holidays or brunch spreads.
These pro tips ensure your homemade Cracker Barrel hashbrown casserole comes out rich, thick, and restaurant-quality every single time.
Conclusion
This Cracker Barrel recipe for hashbrown casserole proves that classic comfort food can be made easily at home without losing flavor or texture. With the right prep and ingredients, your homemade Cracker Barrel hashbrown casserole will be creamy, thick, and perfectly golden every time. Check out more inspiration on https://www.zestolla.com/ or follow food ideas on https://fr.pinterest.com/gadeserahmed/ and https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61568048948605.