After one taste, my neighbor hurried over to get the recipe from me.

Instructions for the Ultimate Cheesy Bacon Potato Casserole

1. Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a little butter or non-stick cooking spray to ensure your casserole doesn’t stick.
2. Cook the Bacon: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until it becomes crispy and browned, about 5-7 minutes. Once the bacon is cooked, remove it from the pan and drain it on a paper towel-lined plate to remove any excess grease.
3. Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed hashbrowns, cooked bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, chopped onion, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and melted butter. Stir everything together until well combined. The creamy soup and sour cream create a rich base for the casserole, while the bacon and cheese add all the savory goodness.
4. Assemble the Casserole: Pour the potato mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Use a spatula to smooth out the top so that it bakes uniformly.
5. Bake the Casserole: Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling around the edges. If you prefer a crispier top, you can broil it for a few additional minutes (but keep a close eye on it to prevent burning).
6. Garnish and Serve: Once the casserole is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped green onions or chives, if desired, for a pop of color and added flavor.
7. Enjoy: Serve the cheesy bacon potato casserole hot, either as a side dish or as a main course. It pairs wonderfully with roasted chicken, grilled steak, or even just a simple salad.

Why This Cheesy Bacon Potato Casserole is So Irresistible

The combination of crispy bacon and melted cheddar cheese creates a mouthwatering flavor profile that makes this casserole stand out. The creamy potatoes soak up all the savory goodness from the bacon, cheese, and soup, making each bite a satisfying experience. Plus, the simplicity of the recipe means you can get this dish in the oven quickly, making it the perfect option for a last-minute gathering or a comforting family meal.

Tips for Making the Best Cheesy Bacon Potato Casserole

• Use fresh potatoes if preferred: If you prefer fresh potatoes over frozen hashbrowns, you can peel and grate about 4-5 medium-sized potatoes. Be sure to rinse them to remove excess starch before using them in the casserole.
• Adjust the cheese: While sharp cheddar is the classic choice for this dish, feel free to mix in other cheeses like mozzarella or Monterey Jack for extra creaminess and flavor.
• Add extra toppings: If you’re feeling adventurous, you can add a layer of crispy fried onions on top during the last 10 minutes of baking for a crunchy, flavorful topping.
• Make it ahead: This casserole can be assembled the night before and stored in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake it, simply pop it in the oven and let the magic happen!

Final Thoughts: The Recipe You’ll Be Asked for Over and Over

This Cheesy Bacon Potato Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that’s sure to impress your guests, just like it did with my neighbor. After one taste, they’ll be rushing over to get the recipe from you, and for good reason—it’s that good! The crispy bacon, gooey cheese, and creamy potatoes come together in a way that’s completely irresistible. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a potluck, or a casual gathering, this casserole is guaranteed to be a hit.

So, give this recipe a try and get ready to be the star of your next meal. Once you do, you’ll understand why everyone will be coming back for seconds—and asking for the recipe!