The Best Biscuit Bubble Up Casseroles
The BEST Biscuit Bubble Up Casseroles is a easy Southern American recipe that serves 6. 350 calories per serving. Recipe by SouthernFrugalMomma on YouTube.
Prep: 20 min | Cook: 35 min | Total: 1 hr 10 min
Cost: $14.28 total, $2.38 per serving
Ingredients
- 1 can Buttermilk Biscuits (canned) (8‑ounce can, cut into 6 roughly equal pieces)
- 2 pieces Chicken Breast (Boneless, skinless; thawed and diced)
- 6 slices Bacon (Chopped; can use pre‑cooked bacon bits)
- 2 cans Cream of Chicken Soup (10.5‑oz cans)
- 1.5 cups Sour Cream (Full‑fat, about 3/4 of a 16‑oz container)
- 1 packet Ranch Seasoning Mix (Store‑bought ranch dressing powder)
- 2 cups Sharp Cheddar Cheese (Shredded; divided (1 cup for sauce, 1 cup for topping))
- 1 pinch Salt (To taste)
- 1 pinch Black Pepper (Freshly ground if possible)
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder (For seasoning chicken)
- 1 teaspoon Onion Powder (For seasoning chicken)
- 1 spray Cooking Spray (For greasing casserole dish)
Instructions
Preheat Oven
Set the oven to 350°F (177°C) and let it preheat while you prepare the casserole.
Time: PT5M
Temperature: 350°F
Cook Bacon
In a skillet over medium heat, add the chopped bacon and cook until crisp. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside on paper towels to drain.
Time: PT5M
Cook Chicken
In the same skillet, add the diced chicken breast, season with a pinch of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is no longer pink and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Time: PT8M
Combine Chicken and Bacon
Return the cooked bacon to the skillet and stir to combine with the chicken. Remove from heat and set aside.
Time: PT2M
Prepare Ranch Sauce
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the two cans of cream of chicken soup, 1½ cups sour cream, the ranch seasoning packet, a pinch of salt, and a pinch of pepper. Fold in 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese.
Time: PT4M
Cut Biscuit Pieces
Open the can of buttermilk biscuits and cut each biscuit into roughly six bite‑size pieces (about 48 pieces total).
Time: PT5M
Grease Casserole Dish
Lightly spray the 9×13‑inch casserole dish with cooking spray.
Time: PT1M
Layer First Half of Biscuits
Spread half of the biscuit pieces evenly across the bottom of the greased dish.
Time: PT2M
Add First Half of Sauce
Pour half of the ranch sauce over the biscuit layer, spreading gently to coat.
Time: PT2M
Add Chicken‑Bacon Mixture
Evenly distribute the chicken‑bacon mixture over the sauced biscuits.
Time: PT2M
Layer Remaining Biscuits
Place the remaining biscuit pieces on top of the chicken layer.
Time: PT2M
Add Remaining Sauce
Pour the rest of the ranch sauce over the top biscuit layer, spreading to cover all pieces.
Time: PT2M
First Bake
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20‑25 minutes, until the biscuits are golden and the sauce is bubbling.
Time: PT25M
Temperature: 350°F
Add Final Cheese Topping
Remove the casserole, sprinkle the remaining 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar over the top, and return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese melts and turns golden.
Time: PT5M
Temperature: 350°F
Cool and Serve
Allow the casserole to rest for 5‑10 minutes before cutting. Serve warm.
Time: PT10M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 350
- Protein
- 20g
- Carbohydrates
- 30g
- Fat
- 15g
- Fiber
- 1g
Dietary info: Contains meat, Contains pork, Contains wheat
Allergens: Gluten, Dairy
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Buttermilk Biscuits (canned): Homemade biscuit dough, Parker House rolls (cut)
- Instead of Chicken Breast: Rotisserie chicken (shredded), Cooked turkey breast
- Instead of Bacon: Smoked turkey bacon, Pancetta
- Instead of Cream of Chicken Soup: Cream of mushroom soup (will change flavor), Homemade roux‑based sauce
- Instead of Sour Cream: Greek yogurt, Crème fraîche
- Instead of Ranch Seasoning Mix: Homemade ranch dry mix, Italian seasoning with dill
- Instead of Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Monterey Jack, Colby
- Instead of Garlic Powder: Fresh minced garlic (1 clove)
- Instead of Onion Powder: Finely minced onion (1 tbsp)
- Instead of Cooking Spray: Butter or oil brush
Equipment Needed
- Skillet
- Mixing Bowl
- Whisk
- Cutting Board
- Chef’s Knife
- Measuring Cups
- Casserole Dish (9×13 inch)
- Oven
- Spatula or Spoon
- Spray Bottle (cooking spray) (optional)
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Cooking chicken to a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Ensuring the biscuit pieces are fully coated with sauce before baking.
- Adding the final cheese topping and baking just until golden to avoid burning.
Chef Tips from the Video
- Use a rotisserie chicken for an even quicker prep; shred it and skip the skillet step.
- For extra smoky flavor, use smoked bacon or add a dash of smoked paprika to the sauce.
- Serve with a simple green salad or pickles to cut through the richness.
Troubleshooting
Biscuits are dry and not absorbing sauce.
Add an extra ¼ cup of milk or broth to the sauce before pouring, and ensure the biscuits are cut into small pieces.
Top cheese burns before the interior is hot.
Cover the casserole loosely with foil after the first 20 minutes, then uncover for the final cheese melt.
Casserole is watery after baking.
Drain any excess liquid from the cooked chicken/bacon and use a slightly thicker sauce (reduce with a splash of milk).
Storage
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Wrap tightly with foil and freeze for up to 2 months; reheat covered at 350°F until hot.
Room temperature: Do not leave at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Assemble the casserole up to step 12, cover tightly, and refrigerate overnight; bake as directed the next day.
- The dish freezes well after baking; let it cool completely, then wrap and freeze.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of Chicken Bacon Ranch Bubble Up Casserole in Southern American cuisine?
Bubble up casseroles are a Southern comfort‑food tradition that repurposes canned biscuit dough into hearty, one‑dish meals. They reflect the resourceful, budget‑friendly cooking style of the American South, where pantry staples like biscuits, canned soups, and ranch seasoning are combined with locally loved ingredients such as bacon and chicken.
What are the traditional regional variations of biscuit‑based bubble up casseroles in the Southern United States?
In the Deep South, variations often include sausage or ham instead of bacon, and use cheddar or pepper jack cheese. In the Gulf Coast, shrimp or catfish may replace chicken, and Creole‑style seasonings are added. The core concept—layered biscuits with a creamy sauce—remains the same across regions.
How is Chicken Bacon Ranch Bubble Up Casserole traditionally served in Southern households?
It is typically served hot straight from the oven, often accompanied by a simple green salad, coleslaw, or pickles. Some families like to add a dollop of extra sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce for a tangy kick.
On what occasions or celebrations is Chicken Bacon Ranch Bubble Up Casserole commonly prepared in Southern culture?
It’s a popular dish for potlucks, family reunions, game‑day gatherings, and casual weekend meals because it feeds a crowd, can be made ahead, and uses pantry staples that are easy to stock.
What other Southern dishes pair well with Chicken Bacon Ranch Bubble Up Casserole?
Pairs beautifully with buttery corn on the cob, collard greens, baked beans, or a crisp cucumber‑tomato salad. A glass of sweet tea or a light lager rounds out the meal.
What makes Chicken Bacon Ranch Bubble Up Casserole special or unique within Southern casserole cuisine?
The use of ranch seasoning and crispy bacon adds a smoky‑herby flavor that distinguishes it from more traditional chicken‑and‑gravy casseroles. The biscuit “bubble‑up” technique creates a fluffy, bread‑like topping that soaks up the creamy sauce.
How has the bubble up casserole concept evolved over time in Southern cooking?
Originally a way to stretch leftover biscuits and canned soups, modern versions incorporate fresh proteins, artisanal cheeses, and a variety of seasonings like ranch or taco blends, reflecting today’s taste preferences while keeping the easy, budget‑friendly spirit.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making Chicken Bacon Ranch Bubble Up Casserole?
Common errors include undercooking the chicken, using too much sauce which makes the dish soggy, and over‑baking the cheese topping until it burns. Also, failing to cut the biscuits small enough can leave dry pockets.
Why does this recipe use canned cream of chicken soup instead of making a roux‑based sauce?
Canned cream of chicken soup provides a quick, thick, and flavorful base that saves time and keeps the dish budget‑friendly. A roux would require extra butter, flour, and cooking steps, which defeats the convenience focus of a bubble up casserole.
Can I make Chicken Bacon Ranch Bubble Up Casserole ahead of time and how should I store it before baking?
Yes. Assemble the casserole through step 12, cover tightly with foil, and refrigerate up to 24 hours. When ready, remove the foil and bake as directed; you may need an extra 5‑10 minutes of baking time if the dish is cold.
What does the YouTube channel SouthernFrugalMomma specialize in?
SouthernFrugalMomma focuses on affordable, family‑friendly Southern cooking, offering budget‑savvy recipes that use pantry staples, canned goods, and easy‑to‑find ingredients while preserving classic Southern flavors.
How does the YouTube channel SouthernFrugalMomma's approach to Southern comfort food differ from other cooking channels?
SouthernFrugalMomma emphasizes frugality and simplicity, often showcasing one‑pot or one‑dish meals that stretch inexpensive ingredients. Unlike many channels that prioritize gourmet techniques, she prioritizes accessibility, clear step‑by‑step instructions, and cost‑effective ingredient swaps.
Last updated: September 1, 2026
