Cheesy Crack Casserole is the ultimate comfort food dish that combines creamy, cheesy goodness with crispy toppings and hearty ingredients. Known for its addictive flavor and satisfying texture, this casserole is a crowd-pleaser at family dinners, potlucks, or holiday gatherings. Its layers of cheese, chicken, bacon, and creamy sauce create a rich flavor that’s hard to resist. What makes this dish stand out is the balance between gooey cheese, savory meat, and the slight crunch from toppings, making it both indulgent and comforting.
Ingredients
- 4 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or cubed
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 8 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- 2 cups crushed buttery crackers or potato chips
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. In a large bowl, mix sour cream, cream of chicken soup, softened cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper until smooth. Stir in shredded chicken, half of the bacon, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Spread mixture evenly into the prepared dish.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese evenly over the chicken mixture. In a separate bowl, mix crushed crackers or chips with melted butter and spread evenly on top of the casserole.
- Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown. Garnish with the remaining bacon and chopped green onions before serving.
Servings
Makes 8 servings
Nutritional Info (per serving, approx.)
Calories: 410
Protein: 23g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fat: 28g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 720mg
Notes
This casserole can be prepared in advance and refrigerated overnight before baking. If you prefer a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream and use reduced-fat cream cheese. For extra flavor, add vegetables like broccoli, peas, or spinach to the mixture.
Tips
Use rotisserie chicken for convenience and rich flavor. To make the topping extra crunchy, broil for the last 2–3 minutes of baking. Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes after baking for easier slicing. This dish also freezes well, so you can bake half and store the rest for later meals.
Health Benefits
While Cheesy Crack Casserole is an indulgent dish, it can provide a good amount of protein from chicken and calcium from cheese. Adding vegetables to the recipe boosts its vitamin, fiber, and antioxidant content. Swapping sour cream for Greek yogurt adds probiotics and reduces fat, while using whole-grain crackers increases fiber. Moderation and mindful ingredient choices can turn this hearty casserole into a balanced family-friendly meal.
Q & A
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble it a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake it when ready to serve.
Q: Can I use different meats instead of chicken?
A: Yes, turkey or ham can be used as alternatives, giving the dish a new twist.
Q: How can I make it vegetarian?
A: Substitute chicken with beans or lentils and add vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini.
Q: What’s the best cheese for this recipe?
A: Sharp cheddar gives a bold flavor, but you can also mix in mozzarella or Monterey Jack.
Q: Can I use an air fryer?
A: While the whole casserole won’t fit, you can bake individual portions in ramekins in an air fryer at 350°F for 12–15 minutes.