Alright, mis Amigos! Quinn from Cuba Queen here, and I’ve got a flavor BOMB that’s about to explode in your kitchen: my Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole recipe. This isn’t your grandma’s bland casserole; this is a cheesy, creamy, and oh-so-satisfying dish that’ll have everyone fighting for seconds. Seriously, this Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole is so good, it’s almost illegal!
I’ve been obsessed with recreating this iconic dish ever since I first tasted it on a road trip. The first bite of this Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole hit me like a flavor hurricane: cheesy, savory, and ridiculously comforting. Right then, I knew I had to bring this level of deliciousness into my own kitchen.
This Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole represents everything Cuba Queen stands for: big, bold flavors that are easy to make and even easier to devour. No complicated techniques or fancy ingredients needed. We’re talking about pure, unadulterated comfort food that delivers every single time.
Get ready to turn your kitchen into a fiesta, because I’m about to share my recipe for hashbrown casserole with you. Let’s get this flavor party started!
INGREDIENTS You Need for This:
This Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole ingredient list is short but mighty! Every element plays a crucial role in achieving that signature taste and texture we all crave.
- 30 ounces frozen shredded hash browns, thawed: This is the base of our Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole. Make sure they’re thawed for even cooking!
- 1/2 cup melted butter: Butter adds richness and flavor. Don’t skimp on this, flavor adventurers!
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of chicken soup: This helps bind everything together and adds a creamy, savory note to the Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole.
- 1 pint sour cream: Sour cream brings a tangy creaminess that balances the richness of the cheese and butter.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Salt enhances all the flavors in our Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Pepper adds a touch of spice and depth.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Garlic powder gives a subtle savory kick to this easy Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided: Cheddar cheese provides that classic cheesy flavor and melty goodness.

The secret to an epic Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole is using GOOD cheese! Splurge on a block of sharp cheddar and shred it yourself. The pre-shredded stuff has anti-caking agents that can affect the melt. Trust me on this one!
For a budget-friendly alternative, you can use a store-brand cheddar, but aim for one with a good flavor profile. A mild cheddar will work, but you might want to add a pinch more salt and garlic powder to compensate.
You’ll find the best ingredients for your perfect Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole at your local grocery store, but farmer’s markets can sometimes have amazing artisanal cheeses that will take this dish to another level. Keep an eye out!
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:
Alright, flavor adventurers, let’s dive into the step-by-step instructions for making this incredible Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole. Don’t stress – your Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole is going to be incredible!
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole cooks evenly.
- In a large bowl, combine the thawed hash browns, melted butter, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Mix everything until well combined. This is where the magic starts, my friend.
- Add 1 1/2 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese to the mixture and stir until evenly distributed. Save the remaining 1/2 cup for topping!
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Make sure to spread it evenly for uniform cooking. Pro tip for Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole perfection: Use a little non-stick cooking spray on your spatula to make spreading easier.
- Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top. This creates that golden, cheesy crust we all love on our Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly. This is when your Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole transforms into pure magic. While your Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole is working its magic, grab your camera – this is Instagram gold!
- Let the casserole sit for about 10 minutes before serving. This allows it to set up a bit and prevents you from burning your tongue on molten cheese!
Here’s where most people mess up their Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole – they don’t let the hash browns thaw properly. Make sure those taters are fully thawed before mixing everything together, or you’ll end up with a watery casserole. Nobody wants that!
In my kitchen, this Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole takes exactly 48 minutes to reach that perfect golden brown. But oven temps vary, so keep an eye on it! Your Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole should look bubbly and have a nice, golden-brown crust when it’s done.
PRESENTATION:
Presentation is key, mis Amigos! This Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole is delicious, but with a little flair, you can make it truly unforgettable.
Serve this Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole hot, straight from the oven. The cheesy aroma alone will have your guests drooling! People absolutely lose their minds when I serve this at potlucks!
For a simple yet elegant presentation, garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives. It adds a pop of color and a touch of freshness that complements the richness of the dish.
This cheesy Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole absolutely slays at brunch or dinner parties! Pair it with some crispy bacon, sausage, or a side of fresh fruit for a complete and satisfying meal.
For an Instagram-worthy plating technique, try cutting the casserole into neat squares and arranging them artfully on a plate. A dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce can add extra visual appeal to your Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole.
Leftovers of this Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole can be transformed into crispy hash brown patties. Just form the leftovers into small patties and pan-fry them until golden brown. Serve with a fried egg for a killer breakfast!
For a seasonal variation, try adding some sautéed mushrooms and onions in the fall, or some diced ham and green onions in the spring. I’ve even experimented with a spicy version, adding a pinch of cayenne pepper and some diced jalapeños. SO good!
FAQs:
Got questions? ¡No problema! Here are some frequently asked questions about my Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole recipe, answered with my signature Cuba Queen energy!
Can I make this Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole ahead of time?
¡Sí! You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time. This is one of my favorite Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole hacks!
What if I don’t have cream of chicken soup for my Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole?
No worries! You can substitute cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup. Or, for a bolder flavor, try cream of cheddar soup!
Can I use fresh hash browns instead of frozen for this Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole?
Absolutely! Just make sure to shred them finely and squeeze out any excess moisture before using.
How do I know when my Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole is perfectly done?
The top should be golden brown and bubbly, and the casserole should be heated through. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
Can I add meat to this Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole?
¡Claro que sí! Cooked bacon, sausage, or ham would be delicious additions. I once made a Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole with chorizo – talk about a flavor explosion!
What if I want to make a smaller batch of this Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole?
Simply halve all the ingredients and bake in an 8×8 inch baking dish. But trust me, you’ll want the whole batch!
Can I make this Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole spicier?
¡Absolutamente! Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, some diced jalapeños, or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce.
I’ve heard from so many flavor adventurers in the Cuba Queen community who’ve customized this Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole to their liking. It’s all about making it your own! And remember, I’m always here to help you succeed in the kitchen.
CONCLUSION:
This Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole represents everything Cuba Queen stands for: bold flavors, easy recipes, and food that brings people together. It’s a dish that’s guaranteed to impress, whether you’re serving it at a potluck, a brunch, or a simple family dinner.
My Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole Power Tips:
- Thaw those hash browns!
- Use good quality cheddar cheese!
- Don’t be afraid to experiment with flavors!
I’ve created so many variations of this easy Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole over the years. One of my favorites is adding a layer of caramelized onions and Gruyère cheese. For a Mexican twist, try adding some chorizo, black beans, and salsa. And for a vegetarian option, add some roasted vegetables like broccoli, carrots, and bell peppers.
But honestly, the classic Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole recipe gets the biggest reactions. There’s just something about that cheesy, creamy goodness that everyone loves.
I’m confident that you can make this homemade Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole your signature dish. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, and it’s so easy to make that even the most novice cook can pull it off.
So go ahead, flavor adventurers, and create some Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole memories. And don’t forget to share your creations with me! I can’t wait to see what you come up with.

Go on now and make your dish! Take a picture and post it! I can’t wait to see it! Don’t forget to tag me! Also, if you loved this recipe, make sure you check out my taco hashbrown casserole.
And if you are looking for a unique twist on this recipe, check this Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole Recipe for a new way to prepare this fantastic dish.
I hope you enjoy this and you’re looking for the best Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole. If this is not what you are looking for, check out this (Improved) Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole – Spend With …, or this Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole (Cracker Barrel Copycat) | A Wicked ….
Oh! And if you’re looking for another exciting breakfast idea, you’ve got to try this egg hashbrown casserole recipe!
Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole
Craving Cracker Barrel’s famous hashbrown casserole? This copycat recipe delivers all the cheesy, creamy goodness you love, perfect as a side dish or breakfast bake.
- 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 cup chopped onion
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
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, chopped onion, 1 1/2 cups of the cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese over the top.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
- Let stand for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
For a richer flavor, add a few tablespoons of bacon bits to the hashbrown mixture. You can also use cream of mushroom soup instead of cream of chicken.

