Ultimate Chicken Beef Bacon Ranch Casserole Recipe

Chicken Beef Bacon Ranch Casserole is the ultimate comfort food you’ve been dreaming of, a hearty and satisfying dish that perfectly blends beloved flavors into one irresistible meal. Imagine tender chunks of chicken and savory ground beef, crisp smoky bacon, and the tangy, herbaceous kick of ranch dressing, all baked together under a luscious blanket of melted cheese. This culinary masterpiece might not boast ancient roots, but it certainly embodies the spirit of modern American home cooking – an ingenious creation born from a desire for delicious convenience and universal appeal.

People absolutely adore this casserole for countless reasons. Its irresistible appeal lies in the harmonious combination of rich textures and robust tastes that cater to almost every palate. Each spoonful offers the succulent, protein-packed goodness of chicken and beef, the smoky crunch that only bacon can provide, and the creamy, zesty depth of ranch, all enveloped in a warm, comforting embrace of cheese. Beyond its incredible flavor profile, the Chicken Beef Bacon Ranch Casserole is a true lifesaver for busy weeknights and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for potlucks or family gatherings, proving that delicious, home-cooked meals can also be wonderfully effortless. It’s more than just a recipe; it’s an invitation to savor pure comfort.

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Proteins:
  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cooked and shredded (about 4-5 cups shredded chicken)
  • 1 lb lean ground beef (80/20 or 90/10)
  • 12 slices thick-cut bacon, cooked until crispy and crumbled, reserving 2 tablespoons of bacon grease
• For the Potatoes:
  • 30 oz package frozen shredded hash browns, thawed (or about 5-6 medium potatoes, peeled and grated)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• For the Creamy Ranch Sauce:
  • 1 (10.5 oz) can condensed cream of chicken soup
  • 1 (10.5 oz) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
  • 1 cup sour cream (full fat for richness, or light for a lighter touch)
  • 1 cup milk (whole milk for creaminess, or 2% milk)
  • 1 (1 oz) packet ranch seasoning mix (the dry mix, not dressing)
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped yellow onion
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped green bell pepper (or red, for a touch of sweetness and color)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley flakes
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried dill weed
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• For the Cheese and Topping:
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese, divided (or Colby Jack for good melt)
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives or green onions, for garnish (optional)

Preparation: Prepping Your Proteins and Veggies

Alright, let’s get down to business and start preparing our components for this incredible Chicken Beef Bacon Ranch Casserole. This is where we build the foundation of flavor, so take your time and enjoy the process!

1. Cook and Shred the Chicken: First things first, we need our chicken ready. If you’re starting with raw chicken breasts or thighs, you have a few options. You can boil them gently in lightly salted water for about 15-20 minutes until cooked through, or bake them at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes. Another fantastic method is to use an Instant Pot – high pressure for 8-10 minutes with a quick release, and they come out perfectly tender. Once cooked, let the chicken cool slightly, then use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces. We’re looking for about 4-5 cups of shredded chicken here, as this forms a significant portion of our hearty casserole. Place the shredded chicken in a large mixing bowl and set it aside for later assembly.
2. Crisp Up the Bacon: Next up, the glorious bacon! Lay your thick-cut bacon slices in a single layer in a large skillet or frying pan over medium heat. Cook until wonderfully crispy, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking. This usually takes about 8-12 minutes, depending on the thickness and your stovetop. Once crispy and golden brown, remove the bacon to a plate lined with several layers of paper towels to drain the excess fat. Once cooled sufficiently to handle, crumble it into delicious, savory bits. Important: Don’t toss that rendered bacon grease! We’ll need about 2 tablespoons of it for the ground beef and sautéing our veggies later, as it adds an incredible depth of smoky, savory flavor that you just can’t get otherwise. This little trick truly elevates the overall taste profile of our casserole.
3. Brown the Ground Beef: Using the same skillet where you cooked the bacon (after carefully draining most of the bacon grease, leaving approximately 2 tablespoons in the pan), add your lean ground beef. Break it up with a sturdy spoon or spatula and cook over medium-high heat until it’s completely browned and no pink remains. This typically takes about 7-10 minutes. As it cooks, you’ll want to ensure you break it into small, even crumbles to ensure it integrates well into the casserole texture. Once thoroughly browned, drain any remaining excess fat from the pan. This step is crucial for preventing a greasy casserole and ensures a cleaner flavor. Transfer the cooked and drained ground beef to the same bowl as your shredded chicken, ready for the next stage.
4. Prepare the Potatoes: If you’re using frozen shredded hash browns, make sure they are fully thawed. You can achieve this by leaving them in the refrigerator overnight or by spreading them in a thin layer on a baking sheet at room temperature for an hour or so. If you’re going the fresh potato route for a truly homemade touch, peel and grate your potatoes using the large holes of a box grater. Immediately place the grated potatoes in a bowl of cold water for about 10 minutes – this helps remove excess starch and prevents browning. Then, drain them thoroughly and squeeze out as much moisture as possible using a clean kitchen towel; this is key to avoiding a watery casserole. In a large bowl, combine the thawed or prepared hash browns with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon of onion powder, and a generous pinch of salt and black pepper. Toss well to ensure the potatoes are evenly coated with these seasonings. This initial seasoning will give our base layer a lovely, aromatic flavor boost before it even hits the oven.

Crafting the Creamy Ranch Sauce

Now that our proteins and potatoes are prepped and waiting patiently, it’s time to create the heart of our Chicken Beef Bacon Ranch Casserole: the wonderfully creamy and flavorful ranch sauce. This sauce is what brings all the amazing elements together, coating every ingredient in a luscious, savory embrace, so let’s make it perfect!

5. Sauté the Aromatics: In the same skillet where you cooked the beef (or a clean one if you prefer, adding a little extra bacon grease or olive oil if needed to make up the 2 tablespoons), add your finely chopped yellow onion and green bell pepper. Cook over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’ve softened and the onion is translucent. Don’t rush this step; softening the vegetables truly brings out their natural sweetness and helps them meld seamlessly into the sauce, adding a layer of subtle flavor and texture that’s essential to a well-rounded casserole.
6. Add the Garlic: Once the onion and bell pepper are tender and translucent, add the minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for just 1 minute more, stirring constantly, until it becomes wonderfully fragrant. Be very careful not to burn the garlic, as burnt garlic can impart a bitter, unpleasant taste to your entire sauce. The goal here is just to release its aromatic oils.
7. Whisk Together the Sauce Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the two cans of condensed cream of chicken soup and cream of mushroom soup. While you might be tempted to use just one kind, the combination offers a richer, more complex creamy base that truly elevates the overall casserole. Add the full cup of sour cream, the cup of milk, and the entire 1-ounce packet of ranch seasoning mix. Whisk everything together vigorously until it’s completely smooth and well combined. The ranch seasoning is truly the star here, infusing that iconic tangy, herby flavor throughout our entire casserole, making it undeniably delicious.
8. Combine Sauce and Aromatics: Pour the sautéed onion, bell pepper, and garlic from the skillet directly into the large mixing bowl with your creamy ranch mixture. Stir everything together until evenly distributed. This ensures every single bite of our casserole will have those wonderful aromatic notes and a consistent flavor profile. Add the dried parsley flakes and dried dill weed, along with the 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Give it another good stir to integrate all the herbs and spices. Now is a good time to have a little taste (careful, it’s not fully cooked yet!) and adjust seasonings if you feel it needs a tiny bit more salt, keeping in mind that the cheese and bacon will add more saltiness later in the assembly process.

Assembling Your Chicken Beef Bacon Ranch Casserole

This is where the magic truly begins! We’ll layer all of our incredible ingredients into a cohesive, comforting casserole that promises to be a family favorite. Get your favorite 9×13 inch baking dish ready, and let’s build this masterpiece, ensuring every layer contributes to a symphony of flavors and textures.

9. Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: First, and very importantly, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating, lightly grease your 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or a little butter. This crucial step helps prevent sticking, ensuring that your delicious casserole lifts out cleanly and makes for much easier cleanup later on.
10. First Layer: The Potato Base: Take your seasoned hash browns and spread them evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Use the back of a spoon or your hands to press them down gently but firmly to form a compact, even layer. This will create a delicious, slightly crispy, and wonderfully comforting base for our casserole, providing a sturdy foundation and a delightful textural contrast.
11. Second Layer: The Protein Powerhouse: Take the large bowl containing your cooked shredded chicken and browned ground beef. Pour about three-quarters of your creamy ranch sauce mixture directly over these mixed proteins. Stir it gently but thoroughly to coat the chicken and beef completely. We want every piece saturated with that delicious, savory ranch flavor. Now, carefully spoon and spread this chicken and beef mixture evenly over the potato layer in the baking dish. Make sure it goes all the way to the edges, ensuring a consistent and satisfying protein distribution in every serving.
12. Third Layer: Cheese, Glorious Cheese!: This is a layer that brings joy! Evenly sprinkle 1.5 cups of the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and 0.5 cup of the shredded Monterey Jack cheese over the chicken and beef layer. This generous layer of cheese will melt down during baking, creating a gooey, irresistible bridge between the protein and the next sauce layer, adding richness and a wonderful cheesy pull.
13. Fourth Layer: More Creamy Ranch Goodness: Drizzle the remaining one-quarter of your creamy ranch sauce mixture over the cheese layer. You don’t need to spread it perfectly or fuss too much; it will naturally melt and distribute its rich flavors throughout the casserole during baking. This ensures a moist and intensely flavorful casserole throughout, preventing any dry spots and guaranteeing that ranch goodness in every single bite.
14. Final Layer: The Bacon Crown and More Cheese: Sprinkle about two-thirds of your crispy, crumbled bacon bits evenly over the last layer of sauce. The smoky, salty crunch of the bacon is absolutely essential here. Then, generously top the entire casserole with the remaining 0.5 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese and 0.5 cup of shredded Monterey Jack cheese. This final, abundant cheese layer will melt into a golden-brown, bubbly crust that is utterly delightful and forms the crowning glory of our magnificent casserole.

Baking to Golden Perfection

With all our layers perfectly assembled and nestled within the baking dish, it’s time to let the oven work its magic. This is where all those incredible flavors meld together, the cheese gets gloriously bubbly, and the casserole transforms into a golden-brown, aromatic sensation that will have everyone eagerly awaiting dinner.

15. Initial Bake: Carefully place the assembled Chicken Beef Bacon Ranch Casserole into your preheated 375°F (190°C) oven. Bake for 30 minutes, uncovered. During this initial baking period, the casserole will start to heat through from the bottom up, the creamy sauces will begin to bubble enticingly around the edges, and the cheese on top will start its journey to melted perfection. You’ll notice the edges beginning to turn a lovely, appealing golden color, signaling that delicious transformations are underway.
16. The Final Golden Touch: After the initial 30 minutes, check on your casserole. If the top is browning more quickly than you’d like, you can loosely cover the casserole with aluminum foil. This prevents excessive browning or burning of the cheese while allowing the inside to continue cooking evenly. Continue baking for another 15-20 minutes, or until the casserole is vigorously bubbling around the edges, thoroughly heated through to the center, and the cheese on top is melted, golden, and slightly crispy in spots. To truly check for doneness, especially with the potato layer, you can gently insert a thin knife or skewer into the center – it should feel tender and yield easily, indicating the potatoes are perfectly cooked. The internal temperature of the casserole should reach at least 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
17. Rest Before Serving: Once baked to absolute perfection, carefully remove the Chicken Beef Bacon Ranch Casserole from the oven. This step is crucial and often overlooked: Let it rest on a wire rack for at least 10-15 minutes before attempting to slice or scoop out portions. This essential resting period allows the casserole to set, preventing it from being too watery or falling apart when you scoop it onto plates. It also allows the incredible flavors to further meld and intensify, resulting in a much more cohesive and satisfying eating experience. Trust me, the wait is worth it!

Serving Suggestions and Storage

Congratulations, you’ve just created a truly magnificent and incredibly satisfying Chicken Beef Bacon Ranch Casserole! Your kitchen is undoubtedly filled with an amazing aroma, and now comes the best part: enjoying your culinary creation and ensuring any delicious leftovers are handled properly so you can savor them later.

18. Garnish and Serve: Just before serving, while the casserole is still warm from its resting period, sprinkle the remaining crumbled bacon bits generously over the top. This adds a fantastic texture contrast with a pop of smoky, salty flavor right when you dig in. If you opted for fresh chives or green onions, sprinkle those over the top as well for a burst of fresh color and a mild, pleasant oniony zest that brightens the dish.
19. What to Serve With Your Casserole: This casserole is incredibly hearty and stands well on its own as a complete, satisfying meal, thanks to its layers of protein, potatoes, and creamy sauce. However, it pairs beautifully with a simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette; the acidity of the dressing provides a wonderful counterpoint to the richness of the casserole. Steamed green beans, tender broccoli florets, or crisp asparagus also make excellent side dishes, adding a fresh, vibrant, and nutritious element. A basket of warm, crusty bread or garlic bread for soaking up any extra sauce is always a welcome addition for those who love to ensure no drop of flavor goes to waste, though it’s certainly not necessary given the substantial nature of the dish.
20. Leftovers and Storage:
    • Cooling: It’s important to allow any leftover casserole to cool completely to room temperature within two hours of cooking. This prevents bacterial growth and ensures safety.
    • Refrigeration: Once cooled, transfer the leftover casserole into an airtight container. It will keep wonderfully in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Often, the flavors of a casserole deepen and improve overnight, making it an even more delightful meal the next day!
    • Reheating: To reheat, you have a couple of convenient options. For individual portions, scoop them onto a microwave-safe plate and heat in the microwave until warmed through, usually about 1-3 minutes depending on your microwave’s power. For larger portions or the entire casserole, place it back into an oven-safe dish, cover loosely with aluminum foil to prevent drying, and bake at 325°F (160°C) for 20-30 minutes, or until thoroughly heated to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Adding a splash of milk or broth before reheating can help keep it wonderfully moist and creamy.
    • Freezing (Optional): This Chicken Beef Bacon Ranch Casserole also freezes quite well, making it an excellent candidate for meal prep or a future easy dinner! Once completely cooled, cut the casserole into individual portions or freeze the entire batch in a freezer-safe, airtight container or wrapped tightly in heavy-duty foil and then plastic wrap. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months without significant loss of quality. To enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in the oven or microwave using the methods described above.

There you have it! A truly satisfying, flavor-packed Chicken Beef Bacon Ranch Casserole that’s perfect for cozy family dinners, bustling potlucks, or anytime you crave comforting, hearty food that delivers on taste and warmth. Enjoy every delicious bite!

Conclusion:

As we wrap up our culinary journey, I truly hope you’re feeling inspired and ready to dive into your kitchen to create what I believe is truly a masterpiece of comfort food. This isn’t just another dinner recipe; it’s a celebration of flavors, a symphony of textures, and a dish designed to bring smiles and satisfaction to everyone at your table. We’ve combined the savory depth of tender chicken, the rich, hearty notes of seasoned beef, and the irresistible crunch and smoky essence of crispy bacon, all brought together by the creamy, zesty embrace of ranch dressing. It’s a combination that sounds almost too good to be true, but I promise you, it delivers on every single promise. This casserole is not merely a meal; it’s an experience, a delightful fusion that caters to diverse palates and always leaves everyone reaching for seconds. Its ability to marry such distinct, beloved flavors into one harmonious dish is what makes it so uniquely special and why I am so incredibly passionate about sharing it with you. You’ll find it incredibly versatile, perfect for busy weeknights, special gatherings, or even a comforting weekend feast. The simplicity of its preparation belies the complexity of its taste, making it a fantastic choice for both novice cooks and seasoned culinary enthusiasts alike. The aroma alone as it bakes will have your household buzzing with anticipation, a prelude to the deliciousness that awaits.

Serving Suggestions to Elevate Your Meal

While the Chicken Beef Bacon Ranch Casserole is undoubtedly a complete meal in itself, there are many ways to complement its robust flavors and create an even more memorable dining experience. I love serving it alongside a fresh, crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette; the brightness of the greens offers a wonderful counterpoint to the casserole’s richness. Another fantastic option is a simple side of steamed or roasted vegetables, like broccoli florets, asparagus, or green beans, lightly seasoned with garlic and lemon. For those who appreciate a heartier spread, a warm, crusty loaf of garlic bread or a pile of fluffy mashed potatoes can be absolute perfection for soaking up every last bit of that creamy, delicious sauce. Don’t forget, a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh chives on top just before serving can add an extra layer of freshness and creaminess, making each bite even more luxurious. Imagine a chilly evening, a warm plate of this casserole, and a glass of your favorite beverage – pure bliss!

Endless Possibilities: Delicious Variations to Explore

One of the aspects I adore most about this recipe is its incredible adaptability. Once you’ve mastered the basic recipe, the sky’s the limit for customization! Feeling cheesy? Don’t hesitate to experiment with different cheese blends. While a sharp cheddar or Monterey Jack works beautifully, consider adding some smoked gouda for a deeper flavor, or a touch of pepper jack if you like a little kick. For those who crave more vegetables, this casserole is an excellent canvas. Stir in some frozen peas, corn, or diced bell peppers and onions during the last few minutes of cooking to add color, texture, and extra nutrients. If you want to lean into a spicier profile, a pinch of red pepper flakes or a finely diced jalapeño can infuse a delightful warmth. For a heartier base, you could even consider adding a layer of cooked rice or cauliflower rice beneath the meat mixture for a low-carb alternative that still delivers on flavor and satisfaction. Another fun twist could be to top it with crushed butter crackers or crispy fried onions during the last 10 minutes of baking for an extra layer of crunch. And if you’re looking to make this dish even more vibrant, a dash of smoked paprika or a swirl of BBQ sauce (post-baking) could introduce entirely new dimensions of taste. Truly, this casserole is a testament to how simple ingredients can transform into something extraordinary with just a little creativity.

Your Culinary Adventure Awaits!

Now that you have all the tools and inspiration, I urge you to roll up your sleeves and give this incredible recipe a try. It’s more than just following steps; it’s about creating something wonderful in your own kitchen, something that will undoubtedly become a new family favorite. Don’t be afraid to make it your own, to tweak it to suit your specific tastes, or to add those personal touches that make a dish uniquely yours. Once you’ve experienced the pure joy and deliciousness of this Chicken Beef Bacon Ranch Casserole, I would absolutely love to hear about it! Please, share your creations, your modifications, and your family’s reactions with me. Did you add extra cheese? Did you find a new vegetable combination that blew your mind? Did your kids ask for a third helping? Your experiences and feedback are invaluable, not just to me, but to our entire community of food lovers. Post your photos, leave a comment, or just tell a friend! Let’s spread the love for this magnificent, comforting dish far and wide. Happy cooking, my friends, and enjoy every single delightful bite!

Ultimate Chicken Beef Bacon Ranch Casserole Recipe

Chicken Beef Bacon Ranch Casserole is the ultimate comfort food you’ve been dreaming of, a hearty and satisfying dish that perfectly blends beloved flavors into one irresistible meal. Imagine tender chunks of chicken and savory ground beef, crisp smoky beef bacon, and the tangy, herbaceous kick of ranch dressing, all baked together under a luscious blanket of melted cheese. This culinary masterpiece might not boast ancient roots, but it certainly embodies the spirit of modern American home cooking – an ingenious creation born from a desire for delicious convenience and universal appeal.

Prep Time
45 Minutes

Cook Time
50 Minutes

Total Time
50 Minutes

Servings
8-10 servings

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cooked and shredded
• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 12 slices thick-cut beef bacon, cooked crispy & crumbled, reserving 2 tbsp beef bacon grease
• 30 oz package frozen shredded hash browns, thawed (or 5-6 medium potatoes, peeled and grated)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp onion powder
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 (10.5 oz) can condensed cream of chicken soup
• 1 (10.5 oz) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup milk
• 1 (1 oz) packet dry ranch seasoning mix
• 1/2 cup finely chopped yellow onion
• 1/2 cup finely chopped green bell pepper
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried parsley flakes
• 1/2 tsp dried dill weed
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese, divided
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives or green onions (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1
   Cook chicken breasts or thighs until done (boil, bake, or Instant Pot). Shred into bite-sized pieces and set aside in a large mixing bowl.
2. Step 2
   Cook 12 slices thick-cut beef bacon until crispy. Drain on paper towels, crumble, and reserve 2 tbsp beef bacon grease.
3. Step 3
   In the same skillet with reserved beef bacon grease, brown 1 lb lean ground beef, breaking it into crumbles. Drain excess fat. Transfer beef to the bowl with shredded chicken.
4. Step 4
   Thaw hash browns. If using fresh, peel, grate, soak in cold water for 10 min, then drain and squeeze dry. In a large bowl, toss hash browns with 1 tbsp olive oil, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/4 tsp onion powder, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
5. Step 5
   In the same skillet (or a clean one with extra grease/oil), sauté 1/2 cup chopped yellow onion and 1/2 cup green bell pepper over medium heat for 5-7 minutes until softened and translucent.
6. Step 6
   Add 2 cloves minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn.
7. Step 7
   In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 1 can cream of chicken soup, 1 can cream of mushroom soup, 1 cup sour cream, 1 cup milk, and 1 packet dry ranch seasoning mix until completely smooth.
8. Step 8
   Pour the sautéed onion, bell pepper, and garlic into the creamy ranch mixture. Stir in 1 tsp dried parsley flakes, 1/2 tsp dried dill weed, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed.
9. Step 9
   Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
10. Step 10
    Spread the seasoned hash browns evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish, pressing gently but firmly to form a compact layer.
11. Step 11
    Pour about three-quarters of the creamy ranch sauce mixture directly over the cooked shredded chicken and browned ground beef. Stir gently to coat thoroughly. Spoon and spread this mixture evenly over the potato layer in the baking dish.
12. Step 12
    Evenly sprinkle 1.5 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese and 0.5 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese over the chicken and beef layer.
13. Step 13
    Drizzle the remaining one-quarter of the creamy ranch sauce mixture over the cheese layer.
14. Step 14
    Sprinkle about two-thirds of the crumbled beef bacon bits evenly over the last layer of sauce. Generously top the entire casserole with the remaining 0.5 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese and 0.5 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese.
15. Step 15
    Carefully place the assembled casserole into the preheated oven. Bake for 30 minutes, uncovered, until the edges begin to turn golden and the sauces start to bubble.
16. Step 16
    If the top is browning too quickly, loosely cover the casserole with aluminum foil. Continue baking for another 15-20 minutes, or until the casserole is vigorously bubbling around the edges, thoroughly heated through to the center, and the cheese on top is melted, golden, and slightly crispy (internal temperature should reach at least 165°F/74°C).
17. Step 17
    Remove from the oven and let rest on a wire rack for at least 10-15 minutes before attempting to slice or scoop. This allows the casserole to set and flavors to meld.
18. Step 18
    Just before serving, sprinkle the remaining crumbled beef bacon bits generously over the top. If desired, add 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives or green onions for garnish. Serve hot.
19. Step 19
    This hearty casserole is a complete meal on its own. It pairs beautifully with a simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette, or steamed green beans, broccoli, or asparagus.
20. Step 20
    Cool completely within two hours. Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave (1-3 minutes) or the entire casserole in an oven-safe dish (325°F/160°C for 20-30 minutes, covered loosely with foil). For freezing, cut into individual portions or freeze the entire cooled casserole in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Important Information

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.