This Savory Hash Brown Casserole with Bacon and Cheddar is the ultimate comfort dish, perfect for weekend brunches or cozy family dinners. Packed with crispy bacon, melted cheese, and creamy potatoes, it’s bound to become a household favorite.
Frozen hash browns are the base, providing a starchy, crispy texture without the hassle of peeling and grating potatoes yourself. Sour cream adds a tangy creaminess that complements the savory elements. The condensed cream of chicken soup binds everything together while adding depth of flavor. Cheddar cheese provides that gooey, melty goodness essential in a casserole. Green onions bring a fresh, slightly sharp contrast to the richness. Bacon is the star, adding a smoky, salty crunch. Unsalted butter enhances flavor and ensures a golden crust. A touch of garlic powder, black pepper, and salt rounds out the seasoning, making every bite deliciously balanced.
This casserole pairs wonderfully with a fresh, crisp salad to balance the richness. For breakfast or brunch, serve it alongside scrambled eggs and a fruit platter. As a dinner side, it complements roasted chicken or grilled steak beautifully.
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This gives your casserole the perfect golden finish. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, cream of chicken soup, 1 1/2 cups of cheddar cheese, green onions, crumbled bacon, melted butter, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. Mix everything until it’s well combined. Next, gently fold in the frozen hash browns. Make sure they’re thoroughly coated with the mixture without breaking them apart.
Once mixed, transfer everything into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Spread the mixture out evenly to ensure consistent cooking. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese over the top. This will create a delicious, cheesy crust. Pop it into the preheated oven and let it bake for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown. After baking, let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps it set a bit and makes serving easier.