🥔 How to Make a Cracker Barrel-Inspired Hashbrown Casserole – Creamy, Cheesy & Irresistible!


 


  • 4 cups (20 oz) frozen shredded hashbrowns (thawed)
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 (10.5 oz) can condensed cream of chicken soup (or mushroom for flavor)
  • ½ cup sour cream
  • ½ cup milk
  • ½ cup butter, melted
  • 1 small onion, finely diced (or 2 tbsp dried minced onion)
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • ½ tsp paprika
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • 1 cup crushed cornflakes or tater tots (for topping)
  • 2 tbsp butter, melted (for topping)

✅ For extra flavor: Add ½ cup cooked, crumbled bacon or diced ham.

🍳 Instructions

  1. Preheat oven & prep dish

    • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
    • Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.

  2. Mix the filling

    • In a large bowl, combine hashbrowns, cheddar, mozzarella, Parmesan, cream soup, sour cream, milk, melted butter, onion, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
    • Stir until well blended.

  3. Transfer to baking dish

    • Pour mixture into the prepared dish.
    • Spread evenly.

  4. Add the crunchy topping

    • In a small bowl, mix crushed cornflakes (or tater tots) with 2 tbsp melted butter.
    • Sprinkle over the casserole for a golden, crispy top.

  5. Bake

    • Bake for 45–50 minutes, until bubbly and the top is golden brown.
    • For extra browning, broil 1–2 minutes (watch closely!).

  6. Serve

    • Let cool 5–10 minutes before serving.
    • Scoop and enjoy warm!

🧈 For extra richness: Stir in 2 tbsp cream cheese into the filling.

✅ Tips for the Best Hashbrown Casserole

Thaw hashbrowns first
Prevents a watery dish
Don’t skip the sour cream
Adds creaminess and tang
Usefreshly shredded cheese
Melts better than pre-shredded (which has anti-caking agents)
Let it rest before serving
Helps hold its shape
Double the batch
Freezes beautifully for future meals

🔄 Easy Variations to Try

Bacon Lover’s
Add ½ cup cooked, crumbled bacon
Vegetarian
Skip meat — add mushrooms or bell peppers
Gluten-Free
Use gluten-free soup and cornflake alternative
Low-Carb
Swap hashbrowns for riced cauliflower (texture will be softer)
Breakfast Bake
Add cooked sausage and eggs for a full breakfast casserole

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

❓ Can I make it ahead?

Yes! Assemble the casserole (without baking), cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 10 minutes to baking time.

❓ Can I freeze it?

Absolutely! Bake, cool, and freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F.

❓ Can I use fresh potatoes?

Yes, but frozen hashbrowns are more convenient and give the right texture.

❓ Is it the same as “Texas Tater Tot Casserole”?**

Very similar — both are cheesy, creamy potato bakes with a crunchy topping.

Final Thoughts

You don’t need a road trip to enjoy the creamy, cheesy, golden-brown magic of Cracker Barrel’s famous Hashbrown Casserole.

With this easy, copycat recipe, you get all the comfort, flavor, and nostalgia — in a dish that’s perfect for weekend brunches, holidays, or feeding a crowd.

So next time you’re craving something warm, hearty, and deeply satisfying…
skip the drive.

Make this instead.

Because the best casseroles aren’t complicated —
they’re creamy, crunchy, and shared with joy. 💛