Ingredients

- 8 +

• 2 pounds frozen shredded hash browns, thawed completely and patted dry with paper towels
• 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup, preferably low-sodium for better seasoning control
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated from the block for superior melting
• 1 medium sweet onion, finely diced for even distribution throughout the casserole
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled to prevent curdling
• 1 cup full-fat sour cream at room temperature for the creamiest texture
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder for that classic savory flavor
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder to enhance the natural onion taste
• 1 teaspoon sea salt, or to taste for proper seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper for a subtle kick
• 1/4 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor on top
• 2 tablespoons melted butter for drizzling over the top before baking

Instructions

1

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and position the rack in the center for optimal heat distribution

✓ Done

2

Thoroughly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray, making sure to coat all corners and sides

✓ Done

3

In an extra-large mixing bowl, combine the thawed and dried hash browns with the melted butter, ensuring even coating

✓ Done

4

Add the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, diced onions, and both types of seasoning powder to the potato mixture

✓ Done

5

Fold in the freshly grated cheddar cheese, being careful not to overmix which can make the potatoes gummy

✓ Done

6

Season the mixture with salt and pepper, tasting and adjusting as needed for perfect flavor balance

✓ Done

7

Transfer the well-combined mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula

✓ Done

8

Sprinkle the top with grated Parmesan cheese and drizzle with the remaining melted butter

✓ Done

9

Bake uncovered for 45-50 minutes until the top is golden brown and the edges are crispy

✓ Done

10

Allow the casserole to rest for 10-15 minutes before serving to achieve the perfect consistency

✓ Done

Kitchen Tools

• 9x13 inch baking dish for even heat distribution
• Extra-large mixing bowl for combining ingredients
• Box grater for freshly shredding cheese
• Measuring cups and spoons for accurate portioning
• Rubber spatula for gentle mixing and spreading

Chef's Tips

Thaw hash browns completely and pat them very dry to prevent a watery casserole

Use room temperature ingredients to ensure even mixing and proper melting of cheese

Grate your own cheese from blocks as pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that affect melting

Let the casserole rest after baking to achieve the ideal texture and make serving easier

🔧 Troubleshooting Tips

️

If too watery, bake uncovered for additional 10-15 minutes to reduce moisture

️

If browning too quickly, cover with foil for the remainder of baking time

️

If not browning enough, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end of cooking

️

If too dry, mix in additional sour cream before baking

🔄 Recipe Variations

Add crumbled bacon and green onions for a loaded baked potato style

Mix in diced ham and peas for a complete meal version

Incorporate diced jalapeños and pepper jack cheese for a spicy twist

Top with crushed corn flakes mixed with butter for extra crunch

🥗 Healthy Alternatives

Use low-fat cream of chicken soup and reduced-fat sour cream to cut calories while maintaining flavor

Substitute half the potatoes with cauliflower rice for a lower-carb version

Use light butter or olive oil instead of full-fat butter to reduce saturated fat content

Add finely diced vegetables like bell peppers or carrots to increase nutritional value

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Serve hot alongside grilled chicken or steak for a complete comfort food meal

Pair with a fresh green salad dressed with light vinaigrette to balance the richness

Add steamed broccoli or roasted vegetables on the side for extra nutrition

Garnish with fresh chives or green onions for a pop of color and fresh flavor

Nutrition Facts

380

Calories

12g

Protein

35g

Carbs

22g

Fat

🥗 Suitable Diets

Can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free cream of chicken soup

Vegetarian version possible with cream of mushroom soup instead of chicken

Not suitable for vegan diets due to dairy content

Can be adapted for low-carb diets by using cauliflower

🎨 Presentation Ideas

Fresh chopped chives or green onions for color and flavor

Extra shredded cheese melted on top just before serving

Crispy fried onions for added crunch and visual appeal

Crumbled bacon bits for extra savory flavor

📦 Storage & Conservation

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days

Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months

Thaw frozen portions overnight in the refrigerator before reheating

Reheat in a 350°F oven until hot throughout, about 20-25 minutes

♻️ Leftover Ideas

Make breakfast burritos with leftover casserole and scrambled eggs

Form into patties and pan-fry for crispy potato cakes

Use as a base for a quick shepherd's pie

Layer in a breakfast sandwich with eggs and cheese

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not thawing and drying the hash browns thoroughly, resulting in a soggy casserole

Using cold ingredients straight from the refrigerator, which affects proper mixing

Over-mixing the ingredients, which can make the potatoes gummy and tough

Skipping the resting period after baking, which helps set the casserole properly

FAQ

Can I make this ahead of time? ▶

Yes, assemble up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate before baking

Why is my casserole watery? ▶

This usually happens when the hash browns aren't thawed and dried properly

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen? ▶

Yes, but they should be shredded and soaked in cold water first to remove excess starch

How do I know when it's done? ▶

The top should be golden brown and the edges should be bubbling

Can I freeze this casserole? ▶

Yes, it freezes well for up to 2 months when properly wrapped

Reviews

Sarah M.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Jan 6, 2026

Perfect copycat recipe! Tastes exactly like Cracker Barrel's version.

Michael P.

⭐⭐⭐⭐☆

Jan 22, 2026

Delicious but needed a bit more seasoning for my taste.

Jennifer K.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Jan 20, 2026

My family's new favorite side dish! So creamy and satisfying.

Robert T.

⭐⭐⭐⭐☆

Jan 23, 2026

Great comfort food recipe that's easy to customize.

Linda B.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Jan 17, 2026

Better than the restaurant version! Made it for Easter brunch.