Bacon Hash Brown Casserole
User Reviews
4.8
Bacon Hash Brown Casserole
Description
The casserole starts by blending cooked and crumbled breakfast sausage and bacon with thawed hash brown potatoes and a rich sour cream base. Sharp cheddar cheese and ranch seasoning integrate flavorful layers, while chopped red bell pepper adds color and mild sweetness. Seasoned with salt and freshly ground black pepper, the mixture is combined thoroughly before baking.
Baked uncovered at 400°F, the top turns golden brown and the casserole firm, with crispy bacon bits sprinkled on top for added texture. The sour cream lends creaminess, balancing the savory meat and cheese with tender potatoes and vegetables. Optional garnish with chives or parsley adds a fresh herbal note.
This dish suits a filling breakfast, brunch, or potluck addition. It can be baked immediately or refrigerated overnight, making it convenient to prepare ahead.
Using pre-cooked sausage and bacon cuts prep time. Completely thawing frozen hash browns before assembling is important for uniform texture. Additional vegetables like sautéed onions or mushrooms can be added if desired. Sharp cheddar works well for flavor, but other cheeses can be substituted. Leftovers reheat well.
Ingredients
- 1 cup breakfast sausage cooked/crumbled
- 10 lices Bacon cooked/crumbled, thick-cut
- 40 oz hash brown potatoes frozen/refrigerated
- 32 oz. sour cream regular
- 2 cups cheddar cheese shredded, sharp
- 6 TB ranch seasoning or 2 packages store-bought
- 1 red bell pepper seeded and chopped
- 1 tsp table salt
- ½ tsp black pepper freshly ground
- chives or parsley for garnish, optional, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400F with rack on lower middle position. Set aside 1/4 cup bacon for topping.
- In a large bowl, stir together all ingredients until fully combined well. Transfer to a 9x13 baking pan. Sprinkle reserved 1/4 cup bacon evenly on top.
- If baking right away, bake for 45-60 minutes uncovered, until top is golden. Otherwise, cover tightly and chill overnight; you'll need to add bake time if the casserole is cold.
- If desired, garnish with chives or parsley. Serve while hot.
Notes
- Use pre-cooked sausage and bacon to save prep time.
- Thaw frozen hash browns completely for best texture in casserole.
- Sauté added vegetables like onions or mushrooms before mixing to release moisture and enhance flavor.
- Sharp cheddar cheese imparts a strong flavor, but other cheeses may be used.
- Garnish with chopped chives or parsley to add fresh notes and appealing color.
- This casserole can be prepared ahead, refrigerated, and baked later with adjusted cooking time.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 20Serving
Amount Per Serving
Calories 424 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 424kcal | 21% |
| Carbohydrates | 62.5g | 21% |
| Protein | 8.3g | 17% |
| Fat | 16.4g | 25% |
| Saturated Fat | 8.3g | 42% |
| Trans Fat | 0.1g | 5% |
| Cholesterol | 38.2mg | 13% |
| Sodium | 343.1mg | 14% |
| Fiber | 0.2g | 1% |
| Sugar | 55.7g | 111% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.