
Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish.
In a large bowl, combine thawed hashbrowns, melted butter, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, onion, 1 ½ cups of cheese, and pepper.
Spread the mixture into the prepared baking dish and top with the reserved ½ cup of cheese.
Bake for 45-55 minutes or until hot and bubbly.