There’s just something about a classic, comforting side dish that completes a meal, especially during holidays or family gatherings. This past Easter weekend, as I planned our dinner featuring savory ham and robust Polish sausage with sauerkraut, I knew I needed something truly special to accompany them. I wanted a side that was both familiar and exciting, something that would bring a smile to everyone’s face. My mind immediately went to a recipe I hadn’t made in ages, a delightful copycat of the famous Cracker Barrel Hash Brown Casserole.

This particular recipe holds a special place in my heart, primarily because it came highly recommended by my dear friend, Candi. Candi is a true culinary enthusiast, a wizard in the kitchen, and even runs her own fantastic food blog, The Devilish Dish. Her recommendations are always gold, and this hash brown casserole was no exception. I recall making it a long time ago, and it was an instant hit, but somehow, I never managed to snap a picture of its golden, bubbly glory. A missed opportunity, indeed!

Recently, while rummaging through my collection of potato recipe ideas, searching for inspiration for a hearty side, I stumbled upon Candi’s hash brown casserole recipe again. A wave of delicious memories washed over me. I remembered its creamy texture, the savory notes, and the irresistible cheesy goodness. While I’ve never actually stepped foot into a Cracker Barrel restaurant myself – a fact many find surprising – I knew this homemade version was something truly special, even without a direct comparison. It’s simply that good on its own merits!

Preparing for a big holiday meal can be quite an undertaking, and for me, it’s virtually impossible if my pantry isn’t in tip-top shape. The week leading up to Easter, I dedicated a good chunk of time to a thorough cleaning and organizing spree. It’s amazing what you find (or don’t find!) when you give your pantry a good overhaul. Speaking of which, why do children insist on leaving empty boxes in the pantry? It’s one of life’s great unsolved mysteries, I suppose, right up there with where all the matching socks disappear to!

During this organizational frenzy, as I gathered the necessary ingredients to assemble the casserole on Easter morning, a glimmer of inspiration struck. There, nestled on a shelf in my now impeccably organized pantry, was a jar of real bacon pieces. And in that moment, a brilliant thought occurred to me: if this hash brown casserole was already good, surely bacon could only make it exponentially better. It was a no-brainer decision, a simple addition that promised to elevate an already beloved dish to new heights of deliciousness. And oh, how it did! The smoky, savory crunch of bacon bits woven throughout the creamy, cheesy potatoes was an absolute game-changer.

Why This Cracker Barrel Hash Brown Casserole Copycat is a Must-Try

This isn’t just any hash brown casserole; it’s a testament to the power of simple ingredients combined to create something truly extraordinary. The original Cracker Barrel version is legendary for its comfort-food appeal, and this copycat recipe captures that essence perfectly. It’s the kind of dish that disappears quickly from the potluck table, elicits requests for the recipe, and becomes a staple for family dinners and special occasions alike. What makes it so irresistible? It’s the harmonious blend of creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors, with the added texture and smoky depth from the bacon taking it over the top.

The Secret to Casserole Success: Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor

The beauty of this hash brown casserole lies in its straightforward ingredient list and minimal prep. You start with frozen shredded hash browns, which means no peeling or grating potatoes – a major time-saver! Melted butter adds richness, while cream of chicken soup and sour cream create that wonderfully creamy, luscious base that coats every strand of potato. The sharp cheddar cheese melts into gooey perfection, providing a tangy, savory counterpoint. A touch of dried chopped onion (or fresh, if you prefer) adds aromatic depth, and then, of course, the star enhancer: bacon pieces. Seasoned simply with salt and pepper, these ingredients come together to form a symphony of flavor that’s both comforting and deeply satisfying.

Perfect for Any Occasion: From Breakfast to Dinner

While this Cracker Barrel hash brown casserole with bacon makes an incredible addition to a holiday spread, its versatility means it’s perfect for countless other meals. Imagine it alongside your Sunday morning scrambled eggs and toast for a hearty breakfast, or as a decadent brunch centerpiece. It also serves as an outstanding side dish for weeknight dinners, pairing beautifully with roasted chicken, pork chops, or even a simple steak. The ease of preparation makes it an ideal choice for busy cooks who want to serve something impressive without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for potlucks and family gatherings, where comfort food reigns supreme.

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Print Recipe

Copy Cat – Cracker Barrel Hash Brown Casserole (with BACON!)

This Hash Brown casserole is always a big hit but now it’s even better with Bacon!

Cook Time

50 minutes
mins

Total Time

50 minutes
mins

Cuisine:
American

Keyword:
Cracker Barrel Hash Brown Casserole with BACON

Servings:

9
x 13 dish

Calories:

7241
kcal

Author:
Michaela Kenkel

Cook Mode

Prevent your screen from going dark

Ingredients

• 2
  pounds
  frozen shredded hash browns
• 1
  stick butter
  melted
• 1
  – 10.25 ounce can cream of chicken soup
• 3
  cups
  sour cream
• 2
  Tablespoons
  dried chopped onion
  or 1/2 cup fresh
• 2
  cups
  shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1
  teaspoon
  salt
• 1/2
  teaspoon
  pepper
• 1
  – 3 ounce jar real bacon pieces

Instructions

• Preheat oven to 350 degrees, and prepare a deep 9×13 baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
• In a large bowl combine all of the ingredients.
• Pour into baking dish and bake for 45-50 minutes.
• Will be slightly brown on top.

Nutrition

Serving:
1


|

Calories:
7241
kcal

|

Carbohydrates:
340
g

|

Protein:
189
g

|

Fat:
582
g

|

Saturated Fat:
255
g

|

Polyunsaturated Fat:
260
g

|

Trans Fat:
15
g

|

Cholesterol:
1209
mg

|

Sodium:
14786
mg

|

Fiber:
26
g

|

Sugar:
37
g

Tips for the Perfect Hash Brown Casserole

Even though this recipe is incredibly simple, a few tips can help you achieve hash brown casserole perfection every time. First, ensure your hash browns are thawed before mixing. This allows them to combine more evenly with the other ingredients and prevents a watery casserole. While the recipe calls for two pounds, sometimes larger bags are available, so consider adjusting other ingredients slightly or using two smaller bags. Secondly, don’t be afraid to really dig in and mix all the ingredients thoroughly in that large bowl. Every hash brown strand should be coated in the creamy, cheesy mixture to ensure consistent flavor throughout. Lastly, while the recipe calls for 45-50 minutes of baking, keep an eye on your oven. Ovens vary, and you want that beautiful, slightly brown and crispy top without over-baking the creamy interior. If you desire an even crispier top, you can always sprinkle some extra cheese or even some crushed cornflakes or panko breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter during the last 10-15 minutes of baking.

Serving Suggestions and Leftovers

This Cracker Barrel Hash Brown Casserole with Bacon is more than just a side; it’s a statement piece for any meal. For breakfast or brunch, serve it alongside fluffy scrambled eggs, sizzling sausages, or a platter of fresh fruit. It’s truly a star when paired with holiday ham or roasted turkey, offering a savory, rich counterpoint to the main course. For a more casual family dinner, it’s fantastic with grilled chicken, meatloaf, or even as a comforting standalone dish with a crisp green salad.

If by some miracle you have leftovers, this casserole reheats beautifully. Store any remaining portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can use the microwave for individual servings, but for best results and to maintain some crispness, bake it in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) until warmed through, usually about 15-20 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out. For an extra touch, uncover for the last few minutes to crisp up the top. This casserole can also be made ahead of time and refrigerated before baking, making it an excellent option for meal prep or busy mornings. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.

The Ultimate Comfort Food Experience

In conclusion, whether you’re a long-time fan of Cracker Barrel or simply someone who appreciates a hearty, flavorful side dish, this Copycat Cracker Barrel Hash Brown Casserole with Bacon is a recipe you absolutely need in your repertoire. It’s easy to make, incredibly satisfying, and the addition of bacon transforms it into an unforgettable dish that will have everyone asking for seconds. So go ahead, clean out that pantry, gather your ingredients, and prepare to bring a taste of homestyle comfort right into your kitchen. Enjoy every cheesy, bacony, potato-filled bite!