Few things bring the same comfort as a warm, creamy, and cheesy hashbrown casserole fresh out of the oven—and when you add savory sausage into the mix, it becomes a hearty, satisfying meal that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner. This Cracker Barrel Copycat Hashbrown Casserole with Sausage delivers everything you love about the classic Southern dish, with the added richness and flavor from browned sausage. It’s inspired by the beloved restaurant favorite but made even better with protein-packed sausage that makes it a complete, stand-alone dish.
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This recipe is incredibly easy to prepare and uses simple, affordable ingredients that are readily available. The foundation of this casserole is shredded hashbrowns, combined with sour cream, cheddar cheese, butter, and cream of chicken soup. The sausage adds a savory depth, while the cheese and creamy sauce bring everything together in a warm, cohesive bite. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family on a Sunday morning, hosting a brunch gathering, or looking for a make-ahead option for busy weekday mornings, this dish delivers both convenience and crowd-pleasing flavor.
Another reason to love this recipe is how versatile it is. You can swap sausage for bacon, add vegetables like bell peppers or onions, or even kick up the flavor with a sprinkle of hot sauce. It’s freezer-friendly, ideal for prepping ahead, and can be served as a side or main dish. With a short prep time and a satisfying result, this Cracker Barrel Copycat Hashbrown Casserole with Sausage will quickly become one of your go-to comfort food favorites.
Storage Options
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, bake at 350°F until warmed through or microwave individual servings. You can also freeze the baked casserole for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Summary
This Cracker Barrel Copycat Hashbrown Casserole with Sausage is creamy, cheesy, and loaded with flavor. It’s a filling breakfast casserole that’s easy to make ahead, ideal for holidays, brunch, or family gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
It combines classic comfort with a savory sausage twist
It’s make-ahead friendly and perfect for feeding a crowd
Great for breakfast, brunch, or breakfast-for-dinner nights
One pan, minimal dishes, and big flavor payoff
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
Large skillet
Mixing bowl
9×13 baking dish
Measuring cups and spoons
Spatula or spoon
Tips for Success
Use thawed hashbrowns for best consistency
Brown the sausage well for deeper flavor
Mix all ingredients thoroughly to avoid dry spots
Let the casserole rest after baking so it sets properly
Cover with foil during baking if top browns too quickly
Ingredients
1 (30 oz) bag frozen shredded hashbrowns, thawed
1 lb breakfast sausage, cooked and drained
1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
1 cup sour cream
1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 cup melted butter
1/2 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Directions
Preheat oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13 baking dish
In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium heat until browned, then drain any excess grease
In a large bowl, mix thawed hashbrowns, cooked sausage, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, chopped onion, 1 1/2 cups of the cheese, melted butter, garlic powder, salt, and pepper
Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish
Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheese on top
Bake uncovered for 45–50 minutes, until hot and bubbly and the top is golden brown
Let cool for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley if desired
Additional Tips or Variations
Substitute sausage with diced ham, cooked bacon, or turkey sausage
Use cream of mushroom or cheddar soup for a different flavor
Add chopped bell peppers or jalapeños for a spicy kick
Top with crushed cornflakes or breadcrumbs for a crunchy topping
Make it vegetarian by omitting the sausage and adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach
This Cracker Barrel Copycat Hashbrown Casserole with Sausage is the kind of dish that brings people together. It’s easy, filling, and deeply comforting—just the way Southern-inspired cooking should be. Whether it’s the centerpiece of a brunch table or a cozy family dinner, this casserole will win over hearts and appetites every time.