Creamy Bacon and Hashbrown Casserole Recipe – Warm, Cheesy Comfort in Every Bite

Introduction

The kitchen smells like butter and bacon, and that warm, cheesy aroma makes everyone wander in. I grew up on family casseroles, and this Creamy Bacon and Hashbrown Casserole always brings me back to slow Sunday mornings. It melts together creamy cheeses and crisp bacon, and then bakes into a golden-top hug for the table. If you love a richer, cheesier version on special mornings, try the cheesy bacon and hash brown casserole I sometimes make for guests. Either way, you’ll want a big spoon.

Why You’ll Love It

• Quick and easy to make, so you can relax while it bakes.
• Comforting homemade flavor that smells like home.
• Made with simple ingredients you probably already have.
• Great for any occasion — brunch, potluck, or a cozy weeknight.
• Always a crowd-pleaser with its creamy center and golden top.

For an easy side twist, pair it with a crisp salad or buttery dinner rolls. Also, if you enjoy bold bacon flavors, check out these bacon-ranch sandwiches for a fun pairing.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled (fresh bacon gives best flavor)
• 4 cups frozen hash browns, thawed
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (sharp cheddar adds bright flavor)
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup milk (use whole milk for extra creaminess)
• 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (fresh garlic gives it that extra flavor boost if you like)
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh chives, chopped (for garnish)

Note: If you want to swap the potatoes for a veggie twist, try adding cooked broccoli like in this cheesy chicken and broccoli casserole for inspiration.

How to Make It

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. First things first, warming the oven gets everything cozy and ready.
2. In a large bowl, beat together the sour cream, cream cheese, and milk until silky smooth. Then add the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. You’ll smell a gentle tang rising from the bowl.
3. Fold in the thawed hash browns, crumbled bacon, green onions, and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until the potatoes look evenly coated and the cheese peeks through. The mixture should feel thick and a little pillowy.
4. Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Smooth the top with a spatula, and pat it down gently. Meanwhile, the oven racks should be in the middle position.
5. Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the top turns golden and the casserole bubbles around the edges. You’ll hear a soft sizzle when it’s done — that’s the cheese doing its magic.
6. Remove from the oven, sprinkle with chopped fresh chives, and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Then scoop generous portions and enjoy the warm, creamy center.

If you love hearty casseroles, this method also works well with other comforting recipes. For more cozy one-pan ideas, I often peek at simple casseroles like this chicken and stuffing casserole.

Kitchen Tips

• Time-saver: Cook bacon in the oven on a sheet pan while you prep everything else. Then crumble it quickly with your fingers.
• Fix a soupy casserole: If your mixture seems watery, fold in an extra 1/2 cup of shredded cheese or a tablespoon of flour to help bind.
• Flavor twist: Stir in a handful of sautéed mushrooms or a sprinkle of smoked paprika for a smoky, savory note.

Serving Ideas

• Serve hot for Sunday brunch alongside a simple green salad and crusty bread.
• For a holiday table, place it in the middle so everyone can help themselves.
• Garnish with extra chives or a drizzle of hot sauce if you like a little kick.
• Pair with roasted veggies or a bowl of fresh fruit for balance.
• Try small scoops on toasted English muffins for a leftover breakfast sandwich.

If you want a seafood contrast, a light side like a shrimp casserole can be lovely; check out a seafood spin for ideas at this crab and shrimp casserole.

Storing & Leftovers

• Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed through.
• Freezer: Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
• Leftover idea: Make breakfast sandwiches — warm leftover casserole between toasted bread, add an egg, and you’ve got a cozy handheld meal.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Definitely! Assemble it and keep it covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours, then bake. It often tastes even better the next day.

Q: Can I swap any ingredients?
A: Of course! Use what you have — swap cheddar for Monterey Jack or add cooked veggies. This recipe is forgiving and flexible.

Q: What’s the best way to serve it?
A: Fresh from the pan while it’s still warm and aromatic. The top should be golden and the inside creamy.

Q: How do I know it’s perfectly cooked?
A: Look for golden edges, bubbling cheese, and that delicious, fragrant smell — that’s your sign of a done, cozy casserole.

Final Thoughts

This dish always reminds me of family dinners on Sundays, when everyone lingered at the table a little longer. It’s simple, warm, and honest — and it feeds both the belly and the heart. I hope you make this Creamy Bacon and Hashbrown Casserole, share it with people you love, and then make it your own with little twists. Enjoy every gooey, savory bite — you deserve it.

Conclusion

For more classic takes, see Campbell’s version at Bacon Hash Brown Casserole | Campbell’s® Recipes, or compare reader variations at Bacon Hash Brown Casserole Recipe – Food.com.

Creamy Bacon and Hashbrown Casserole

A warm, cheesy casserole filled with creamy cheeses and crispy bacon, perfect for brunch or a cozy dinner.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 50 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 5 minutes mins

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Breakfast, Brunch

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled (fresh bacon gives best flavor)
• 4 cups frozen hash browns, thawed
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (sharp cheddar adds bright flavor)
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup milk (use whole milk for extra creaminess)
• 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (fresh garlic gives it that extra flavor boost if you like)
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh chives, chopped (for garnish)

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, beat together the sour cream, cream cheese, and milk until silky smooth.
3. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Fold in the thawed hash browns, crumbled bacon, green onions, and shredded cheddar cheese until evenly coated.
5. Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top.

Baking

1. Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the top turns golden and the casserole bubbles around the edges.
2. Remove from the oven, sprinkle with chopped fresh chives, and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

This casserole is great for brunch or potluck, and can be frozen for later use. For a twist, add sautéed mushrooms or smoked paprika.