BACON CHEDDAR HASHBROWNS CASSEROLE SUPREME

BACON CHEDDAR HASHBROWNS CASSEROLE SUPREME image

Provided by Tere Gill

Time 1h40m

Number Of Ingredients 11

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4 oz cream cheese, room temperature
1/2 c sour cream
1 tsp seasoned salt (such as lawry's)
1/4 tsp ground black pepper
1 can(s) cream of chicken soup (10 3/4 oz.)
1/2 c chopped sweet onion
1/4 c salted butter, melted
3 c shredded extra-sharp cheddar cheese, divided into 2 c and 1 c
2 lb frozen shredded hash brown potatoes, thawed
1/2 to 3/4 c real bacon bits, cooked and crumbled small (may use packaged real bacon bits if preferred)
1 1/2 Tbsp minced fresh chives

Steps:

1. Gather and prep all ingredients.
2. Lightly butter or spray a 9"x13" casserole; set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, using a fork, beat cream cheese until light and fluffy.
4. Gradually add sour cream and mix thoroughly.
5. Add seasoned salt, pepper and cream of chicken soup; mix well.
6. Add onions; mix well.
7. Add melted butter and quickly mix well.
8. Place oven rack in middle position; preheat oven to 350º F.
9. Scrape soup mixture into a large bowl (extra large is best) and, using a large spoon or bowl scraper, stir in 2 cups of cheddar cheese and mix well.
10. Add the hash browns and mix until well combined.
11. Scrape into prepared casserole and smooth down evenly.
12. Evenly sprinkle with crumbled bacon.
13. Evenly distribute remaining cheese over all.
14. Bake at 350º F for approximately 50 minutes.
15. Remove from oven, sprinkle with chives and serve.
16. Cover and refrigerate leftovers.