If you’re craving a delicious, comforting side dish or a hearty breakfast, this Easy Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole (Cracker Barrel Style) is the perfect recipe. With its creamy, cheesy layers and crispy, golden top, it’s a simple dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re serving it for dinner or as part of your breakfast spread, this cheesy hash browns casserole is packed with flavor and made with just a few easy ingredients. Perfect for holidays, casual dinners, or weekend brunches, this hashbrown casserole recipe is sure to please everyone at the table.

Last Updated February 22nd, 2025.

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Why You’ll Love this Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole:

Creamy, Cheesy Texture: This Easy Cheesy Cracker Barrel Style Hashbrown Casserole has a creamy, cheesy texture that’s the ultimate comfort food. Every bite feels like a warm, cozy hug, making it perfect for everything from casual family dinners to special gatherings.
Simple Ingredients: With simple pantry staples like hashbrowns, onion, garlic, sour cream, and a generous amount of cheese, this hashbrown breakfast casserole comes together effortlessly but tastes like a treat. It’s a hashbrown casserole recipe that proves comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a holiday meal, weeknight dinner, or brunch with friends, this casserole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The cheesy richness and hearty flavor make it a standout at any table.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Want to save time on busy days? This casserole can be prepared ahead of time and baked when you’re ready. It’s the perfect make-ahead hashbrown casserole recipe easy for those times you want a homemade dish with minimal fuss.

unbaked hasbrown casserole with shredded cheese topping

baked gluten free cheesy hashbrown casserole

Ingredient Notes:

Grated Potatoes (Hashbrowns):
- The base of this easy hashbrown casserole, hashbrowns provide a hearty, slightly crispy texture. For convenience, you can use frozen hashbrowns, but if you prefer, you can grate fresh potatoes yourself for an extra homemade touch.
Onion:
- Yellow onion adds a savory, slightly sweet flavor that perfectly balances the richness of the cheese and sour cream in this comfort food casserole. It’s the perfect complement to the other ingredients.
Garlic:
- Fresh minced garlic gives this casserole a delicious aromatic kick. It enhances the overall flavor and adds a savory punch. You can also use garlic powder if you’re in a pinch.
Cream of Chicken Soup:
- The secret ingredient! This soup provides a creamy, savory base that brings the entire breakfast casserole together. It adds richness and depth, making each bite indulgent and oh-so satisfying!
Sour Cream:
- For a smooth and tangy creaminess, sour cream makes this potato casserole extra indulgent. If you’re looking for a lighter option, Greek yogurt is an excellent substitute.
Shredded Cheese:
- The key to that gooey, melty topping, shredded cheese (a mix of sharp cheddar and mild cheese) creates the perfect combination of flavor and meltability. Feel free to adjust the cheese blend to your liking, or even try a blend with cheddar cheese and colby jack for a different twist.

cracker barrel style cheesy hashbrown casserole

Dietary Restriction & Allergy Friendly Substitutions:

To make Gluten-Free:
- For a Gluten-free Cracker Barrel style hashbrown casserole, simply swap the cream of chicken soup for a gluten-free version (many brands offer gluten-free options, such as Campbell’s Gluten Free Cream of Chicken Soup. I also like the Great Value Walmart brand for a budget-friendly option!) or use a homemade gluten-free cream soup substitute. Also, check that your shredded cheese and other ingredients are free from gluten additives.
To make Dairy-Free:
- For a dairy-free version, use a dairy-free sour cream or a cashew cream substitute, and opt for dairy-free shredded cheese such as a coconut-based or almond-based cheese. You can also replace the cream of chicken soup with a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk and a gluten-free flour blend.
To make Vegetarian:
- To keep this dish vegetarian, swap out the cream of chicken soup for a vegetable-based cream soup, such as a cream of mushroom or vegetable soup, and use vegetable broth instead of any chicken stock in homemade soup substitutions.
To make lower fat:
- Opt for reduced-fat sour cream and use a lighter cheese blend (low-fat cheddar, for example) to cut down on calories while still keeping this cheesy potato casserole creamy and cheesy.
To make low carb:
- Replace the hashbrowns with grated cauliflower or cauliflower rice. This swap cuts down on the carbs while still offering a similar texture and a comforting base for the casserole. (For a similar low-carb recipe, check out my Low-Carb Cheesy Cauliflower Bake with Bacon & Mushrooms recipe)

Additional Substitutions & Variations:

Add Protein: For a heartier meal, add cooked chicken, crumbled bacon, or sausage to the casserole. These ingredients not only add protein but also bring even more savory flavor to this homemade hashbrown casserole.
Spicy Kick: If you love a little heat, mix in some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes. Adding a bit of heat will elevate the flavor profile and create an easy cheesy hash brown casserole with a spicy kick!
Veggie-packed: Toss in some sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to make it a more balanced breakfast side dish. This is a great way to add nutrients and make this casserole even more filling, especially for those looking for more veggie variety.
Make it creamy: If you prefer an extra creamy texture, add an additional cup of sour cream or a bit of cream cheese. This variation will make your hashbrown casserole recipe easy even richer and more indulgent.
Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses! Try swapping cheddar for mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a smoky Gouda for a unique flavor profile. The melted cheese mix is one of the highlights of this dish, so feel free to get creative!

Expert Tips & Recipe Notes:

Make Ahead:
- You can easily make hashbrown casserole the night before! Simply assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, pop it in the oven. Be sure to add a few extra minutes of cooking time if baking from cold.
Crispier Topping:
- For an extra crispy top on your , broil the casserole for 2-3 minutes after it’s fully baked. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning and achieve the perfect golden crunch.
Texture Variation:
- For a different texture, try using shredded fresh potatoes instead of frozen hashbrowns. Just be sure to squeeze out any excess moisture to avoid a soggy casserole, ensuring a crispy and satisfying bite.
Frozen Hashbrowns Tip:
- If you’re using frozen hashbrowns, always thaw them first and drain any excess moisture. This will prevent the casserole from becoming watery and keep it thick and creamy, just like a recipe for hash brown casserole should be!
Customize the Cheese:
- Get creative with the cheese! Add some mozzarella for extra meltiness or try pepper jack for a touch of spice. This easy hashbrown casserole recipe can be personalized with your favorite cheese combinations.
Serving Suggestions:
- This casserole is rich and indulgent, so a little goes a long way! It pairs wonderfully with lean proteins or a fresh salad for a balanced brunch or you can go full Cracker Barrel style with some sausage links and fluffy pancakes! You can even have this best cheesy hashbrowns casserole for dinner!
Freezing Tip:
- Leftovers can be frozen for up to a month! Allow the casserole to cool completely, then wrap it tightly and store it in the freezer. When you’re ready to reheat, bake from frozen and add about 20 minutes to the cooking time for a deliciously warmed-up meal.

Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole FAQ’s:

Can I make this hashbrown casserole in advance?
- Yes! This cheesy hashbrowns casserole is perfect for make-ahead meals. Simply assemble the casserole the night before, cover, and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready, bake it off, adding a few extra minutes if baking from cold.
Can I use frozen hashbrowns?
- Absolutely! If you’re using frozen hashbrowns, just be sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture before mixing them into the casserole. This will prevent the casserole from becoming watery and ensure a perfect texture.
What kind of cheese is best for hashbrown casserole?
- I recommend a combination of sharp cheddar and a mild cheese, like colby, for the best cheesy flavor. You can also get creative and add mozzarella for extra meltiness or pepper jack for a bit of spice. Feel free to adjust the cheese blend based on your preferences!
Can I make this casserole without sour cream?
- Yes, you can substitute the sour cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter version of this casserole. The flavor and texture will still be creamy and indulgent!
Can I make this recipe for hash brown casserole gluten-free?
- Definitely! To make this recipe gluten-free, simply swap out the cream of chicken soup for a gluten-free version, or use a homemade cream sauce. Be sure to check that all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
Can I freeze leftovers?
- Yes! You can freeze leftovers of this hashbrown casserole recipe for up to a month. Once cooled, wrap the casserole tightly in plastic wrap or foil and freeze. When you’re ready to eat, bake from frozen, adding about 20 minutes to the cooking time.

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