Craving comfort food? This recipe for a copycat Cracker Barrel Hash Brown Casserole Shepherd’s Pie combines two crowd-favorite dishes into a single, hearty meal you’ll love. One part creamy, cheesy casserole and one part classic shepherd's pie, this dish is the ultimate comfort food fusion you didn’t know you needed.
Whether you're cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, this recipe promises to deliver warm and satisfying bites with every serving.
Get ready to whip up an irresistible dish that’s easy to prepare and guaranteed to impress!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Combining two fan-favorite dishes brings together the best of both worlds. Here’s why this dish is going to be your new go-to comfort food recipe:
- Family-Friendly Appeal: Loved by both kids and adults, it’s the perfect meal to bring everyone to the dinner table.
- Ultimate Comfort: The creamy hash brown casserole layer paired with the hearty shepherd’s pie topping is soul-warming and filling.
- Perfect for Leftovers: Make it once, and you’ll have leftovers for an easy meal the next day!
Now, gather your ingredients—it's time to recreate Cracker Barrel's iconic flavors right in your own kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe incorporates classic components of both Cracker Barrel's hash brown casserole and a traditional shepherd's pie. Here’s your shopping list:
Hash Brown Casserole Layer:
- 30 oz frozen hash browns, thawed
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup sour cream
- ¼ cup melted butter
- ¼ cup onion, finely chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Shepherd’s Pie Topping:
- 1 lb ground beef or ground lamb
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (corn, peas, carrots)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tsp cornstarch (for thickening)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Paprika for color
Instructions: Step-by-Step Guide
Recreating this comfort food masterpiece is easier than it looks. Follow these steps to bring your Copycat Cracker Barrel Hash Brown Casserole Shepherd’s Pie to life:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spray a 9x13 baking dish with nonstick cooking spray and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Hash Brown Casserole Layer
- Combine the thawed hash browns, cream of chicken soup, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, melted butter, and finely chopped onions in a large mixing bowl.
- Mix until evenly combined. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
- Spread the mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking dish. This creamy, cheesy layer will serve as the base of your casserole.
Step 3: Prepare the Shepherd's Pie Topping
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef (or lamb) and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the finely chopped onion and cook until softened—about 2 minutes.
- Stir in the tomato paste, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and mixed vegetables. Allow the mixture to simmer for 5 minutes.
- If the filling is too thin, mix cornstarch with a tablespoon of water to form a slurry. Stir this into the skillet and simmer until the mixture thickens to a rich consistency.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
- Spoon the shepherd’s pie filling evenly over the hash brown casserole layer in the baking dish. Spread it gently to create an even topping.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Place the assembled casserole into the preheated oven and bake, uncovered, for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top develops a slight golden-brown crust.
Step 6: Add the Finishing Touches
Remove the dish from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of paprika, if desired.
Tips for the Best Cracker Barrel Copycat Experience
- Thaw the Hash Browns Completely: Using frozen hash browns will add extra moisture, so thaw them beforehand for the creamiest result.
- Customize Your Meat: Ground lamb gives a traditional flavor, but ground beef is a more budget-friendly and widely loved option.
- Make Ahead: Assemble the layers in advance, refrigerate, and bake when ready to serve.
Why This Recipe Works
By layering the cheesy richness of Cracker Barrel's hash brown casserole with the savory depth of shepherd's pie, this recipe creates a balanced meal that’s both comforting and flavorful. Each bite offers a satisfying mix of creamy, cheesy potato hash and hearty beef-vegetable filling.
Serve and Savor
Your Copycat Cracker Barrel Hash Brown Casserole Shepherd’s Pie is ready to serve! Pair it with a side of fresh green salad or buttery dinner rolls for a complete meal. This dish is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any time you’re craving a hearty, home-cooked meal.
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