Hi, I’m Juliette! I’m so excited to share my spin on a family favorite: Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole. As a busy mom, I’m always on the lookout for meals that are easy to prepare, satisfying, and, of course, packed with nutrients. This Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole ticks all those boxes and more.
I remember the first time I attempted this Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole. My youngest was going through a picky eating phase, and I was desperate to find something that he would actually eat. I stumbled upon a recipe online and decided to give it a shot. The initial reaction was lukewarm, but after a few tweaks and some clever additions (shhh, don’t tell him about the hidden veggies!), it became a family staple. This Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole has been a nutritional win ever since.
This dish is more than just a crowd-pleaser, though. It’s a way to sneak in extra nutrients without sacrificing flavor. Trust me; I’ve tried to feed my kids things that were just good for them, and I got nowhere! With its creamy texture and cheesy goodness, even the pickiest eaters will be coming back for seconds. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up leftover veggies or cheese!
Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole has truly simplified dinnertime at my house. It supports our family nutrition goals by providing a balance of carbohydrates, protein, and fats. This recipe has become a cornerstone of my wellness journey.
If you’re a busy mom looking for a simple, nutritious meal that your whole family will love, you’ve come to the right place. Join me as we dive into this Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole recipe, and let’s make dinnertime a little less stressful and a lot more delicious!
INGREDIENTS You’ll Need:
Alright, fellow nutrition-seekers, let’s gather our ingredients for this amazing Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole. The best part? Most of these are pantry staples! This cheesy hashbrown casserole is so easy to pull together when you have these key ingredients.

- 30 ounces frozen shredded hash browns, thawed: Trust me, using thawed hash browns makes all the difference in the texture of your Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole.
- 1/2 cup melted butter: I sometimes use olive oil for a healthier swap in my Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole, but the butter adds a richness that’s hard to resist.
- 1 can (10.75 ounces) condensed cream of chicken soup: For a lighter option, try using a homemade cream sauce or a reduced-fat version.
- 1 pint (16 ounces) sour cream: Greek yogurt is a great substitute for added protein and tang in this easy hashbrown casserole.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Adjust to your liking; I sometimes add a pinch more for extra flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Freshly ground pepper is always best!
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a subtle savory note.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: I love using sharp cheddar for a bolder flavor, but any cheese works! My family gets extra nutrition when I add a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack.
- 1/4 cup chopped onion: Adds a subtle onion flavor.
You can find these wholesome ingredients at your regular grocery store. I even stock up on frozen hash browns when they’re on sale! This Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole proves nutritious doesn’t mean expensive.
Here’s a Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole nutrition hack that changed our family’s health: I always add a handful of chopped spinach or kale to the mix. The kids never even notice, and it’s a great way to sneak in extra greens!
Trust me, this Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole ingredient list is simple because busy moms need nutrition without complexity! You’ll find that making this easy hashbrown casserole recipe is simpler than you expect.
Let’s Make it Happen!
Okay, let’s get cooking! This Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole is surprisingly simple to make, even on the busiest of weeknights. I promise you can make this cheesy hashbrown casserole. Follow these easy steps, and you’ll have a delicious, comforting dish on the table in no time.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating up, grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
- In a large bowl, combine the thawed hash browns, melted butter, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, salt, pepper, garlic powder, cheddar cheese, and onion. Mix everything together until well combined. Don’t be afraid to get your hands in there!
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly so that it cooks evenly.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly. Your Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole should smell nourishing by now.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the casserole to set slightly, making it easier to slice and serve.
Here’s where I used to struggle with my Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole – learn from my experience! I would often overbake it, resulting in a dry casserole. Now, I always check it around 40 minutes and cover it with foil if it’s browning too quickly.
In my busy kitchen, this nutritious Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole usually takes about an hour from start to finish. While your Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole is cooking, take a moment to appreciate nourishing your family! Perfect time to prep tomorrow’s lunch!
Don’t worry if your Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole looks a little uneven when it comes out of the oven. That’s perfectly normal! The most important thing is that it’s cooked through and tastes delicious.
Sometimes I add a sprinkle of paprika on top before baking for a little extra color and flavor. It’s a simple touch that makes this easy hashbrown casserole recipe feel even more special. I even have a batch of crispy fried onions I like to put on top to make this an extra decadent holiday casserole.
This easy hashbrown casserole recipe is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even as a side dish for dinner. My kids absolutely love it, and I love that it’s a relatively healthy and satisfying meal. I learned how to make this hashbrown casserole recipe when I was looking for something cheap, easy, and filling for a holiday potluck. I got asked for the recipe more than once!
This cheesy hashbrown casserole is also a great make ahead hashbrown casserole recipe option!
How We Love to Eat This!
Now that you’ve baked your delicious Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole, let’s talk about how to serve it! This is where the fun begins – there are so many ways to enjoy this versatile dish.
The kids devour this nutritious Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole when I serve it with scrambled eggs and a side of fruit for a weekend brunch. It’s a complete meal that keeps them full and energized for hours.
This Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole is perfect for those busy weeknights when we need good nutrition fast! I often serve it alongside grilled chicken or a simple salad for a balanced and satisfying dinner.
For a fun twist, try adding diced ham or bacon to the casserole before baking. It adds a smoky flavor and extra protein that everyone will love.
If you’re looking for healthy side dishes to pair with this Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole, consider steamed broccoli, roasted asparagus, or a fresh garden salad. These veggies add essential vitamins and minerals to your meal.
I also love making this Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole for potlucks and gatherings. It’s always a hit, and it’s so easy to transport.
This nutritious Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole reminds me of another family-healthy favorite – Copycat Paneras Potato Soup Recipe. If your kids love this wholesome recipe, they’ll go crazy for Broccoli Cheese Casserole.
We often have leftovers of this cheesy hashbrown casserole, which are just as delicious the next day! I like to reheat them in the microwave or oven for a quick and easy lunch. You can even crumble the leftovers and use them as a topping for baked potatoes or salads.
One of my favorite seasonal variations is adding roasted sweet potatoes and a sprinkle of cinnamon to the casserole in the fall. It adds a touch of sweetness and warmth that’s perfect for the cooler months.
FAQs: Your Questions Answered
I know you probably have a few questions about this Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole, so let’s dive into some common concerns. As a fellow mom, I’ve been there, and I’m here to help! This hashbrown casserole recipe is something that I feel comfortable serving my family because I know what ingredients are in it and I know they will actually eat it.
Is this Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole really nutritious enough for growing kids?
Absolutely! While it’s definitely a comfort food, it can be part of a balanced diet. The potatoes provide carbohydrates for energy, and the cheese adds calcium and protein. To boost the nutrition, add extra veggies like broccoli or spinach.
What if my picky eater won’t try this healthy Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole?
Ah, the picky eater challenge! I get it. Try serving a small portion alongside something they already love. You can also let them help you make it, which might make them more willing to try it.
Can I meal prep this Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole for busy weeks ahead?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time. This make ahead hashbrown casserole recipe is a time saver!
Can I freeze this Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze this Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole before or after baking. If freezing before baking, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. If freezing after baking, let it cool completely before wrapping. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.
Can I make this Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole without cream of chicken soup?
Definitely! You can use a homemade cream sauce or a reduced-fat version. You can even use cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup as a substitute.
What kind of cheese is best for this Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole?
I prefer sharp cheddar for its bold flavor, but you can use any cheese you like. Monterey Jack, Colby, or even a blend of cheeses would work well.
Can I add meat to this Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole?
Yes! Diced ham, bacon, or sausage would be delicious additions. Just cook the meat before adding it to the casserole.
I hope these answers have been helpful! Remember, cooking for your family should be enjoyable, not stressful. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make this Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole your own!
Final Thoughts:
This Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole is more than just a recipe; it’s a way to bring your family together around a warm, comforting meal. It supports our family’s nutrition goals by providing a balance of carbohydrates, protein, and fats.
Here are My Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole Nutrition Hacks:
- Sneak in extra veggies: Add chopped spinach, broccoli, or cauliflower to the casserole.
- Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream: This adds extra protein and tang.
- Choose reduced-fat cheese: This lowers the fat content without sacrificing flavor.
Here are a few family-tested healthy Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole variations:
- Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños for a little heat.
- Vegetarian: Use cream of mushroom soup and add extra veggies like bell peppers and zucchini.
- Loaded: Top with crumbled bacon, sour cream, and green onions after baking.
My son prefers the spicy version, while my daughter loves the vegetarian option. My husband is a fan of the classic recipe, while I lean toward the lower fat recipes.

For more simple nutrition ideas for busy families, check out Chicken Zucchini Casserole Recipe!
I hope you’ll give this Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole a try and make it your own. Remember, the most important ingredient is love! Happy cooking, fellow busy moms! Remember that you don’t have to make it exactly like Cracker Barrel’s version. It is completely ok to add your own flair! For other recipe ideas, I like to get inspiration from recipes like Improved) Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole – Spend With …. If you’re looking for inspiration, there are also recipes like Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole (Cracker Barrel Copycat) | A Wicked …. And finally, a classic rendition of the Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole recipe can be found Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole Recipe
Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole
Craving comfort food? This Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole is creamy, cheesy, and perfectly potato-y, making it the ultimate side dish for any meal. It’s a simple recipe that brings the delicious flavors of Cracker Barrel right to your kitchen!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 65 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 30 ounces frozen shredded hash browns, thawed
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1 can (10.75 ounces) condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 pint (16 ounces) sour cream
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, combine the thawed hash browns, melted butter, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, salt, pepper, onion, and 1 1/2 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix well until everything is evenly combined.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
- Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
- Let stand for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
For an extra crispy topping, broil for the last 2-3 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning. You can also add diced ham or crumbled bacon for a heartier casserole.

