“`html
If you are looking for a comforting and crowd-pleasing breakfast dish, this Hash Brown Egg Casserole Recipe is an absolute winner. Loaded with tender hash browns, melty cheddar, savory ham or bacon, and perfectly seasoned eggs, this casserole bakes up golden and delicious every time. It’s a simple yet flavorful recipe that brings together hearty textures and rich tastes, making it perfect for weekend brunches, holiday mornings, or anytime you want an easy dish that feeds a hungry bunch.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering just a handful of familiar ingredients, this recipe relies on their perfect harmony to create a casserole bursting with flavor and texture. Each element, from the creamy eggs to the crisp-tender bell peppers, plays an essential role in delivering a balanced and satisfying dish.
- Frozen hash browns (30 oz): The crispy, golden base providing hearty texture and warmth to the casserole.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup): Adds rich creaminess and that irresistible cheesy pull in every bite.
- Chopped cooked ham or bacon (1 cup, optional): Brings a smoky, savory note that complements the eggs beautifully.
- Diced onion (1/2 cup): Infuses a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor when baked.
- Diced bell pepper (1/2 cup): Offers fresh color and a slight crunch to balance the softness.
- Large eggs (6): The binding ingredient that holds everything together with fluffy goodness.
- Milk (2 cups): Helps create a creamy, custard-like texture for the casserole.
- Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Adds a gentle garlicky warmth.
- Salt (1 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors to perfection.
- Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Provides just the right hint of spice.
- Paprika (1/4 teaspoon): Gives a subtle smoky undertone and a lovely color.
- Ground mustard (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a mildly tangy complexity that lifts the dish.
- Cooking spray or butter: Essential for greasing the dish to prevent sticking and create a crisp edge.
How to Make Hash Brown Egg Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready to bake your casserole to golden perfection. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter, which will prevent any sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Combine the Hash Brown Mixture
In a large bowl, toss together the thawed hash browns, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped ham or bacon (if you’re using it), diced onion, and diced bell pepper. Mix thoroughly to ensure every bite will be packed with that delicious blend of flavors and textures.
Step 3: Layer the Base
Evenly spread the combined hash brown mixture across the bottom of your greased baking dish. Pressing it down gently will help it form a solid base for the egg mixture to soak into and bind everything together.
Step 4: Whisk the Egg Mixture
In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, paprika, and ground mustard. Whisk until the mixture is completely smooth and well combined—this custard will give the casserole a rich, creamy texture.
Step 5: Pour and Settle
Carefully pour the egg mixture evenly over the hash brown layer. Use a spatula to gently press down the mixture, helping the eggs to settle in and fully cover the hash browns for even cooking and that beyond-satisfying custardy bite.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden and Set
Place the casserole in your preheated oven and bake for 45 to 55 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the eggs have fully set, the top has a light golden-brown hue, and a clean knife inserted in the center comes out without any wet egg mixture.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Once baked, let the casserole cool for 5 to 10 minutes. This rest allows it to firm up, making it easier to slice and ensuring each portion holds together beautifully when plated.
How to Serve Hash Brown Egg Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives add a vibrant pop of color and fresh flavor that perfectly complements the richness of the casserole. For a little extra zing, a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of sliced green onions works wonders on top.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs wonderfully with lighter sides to balance its heartiness. Consider serving it alongside a crisp green salad or fresh fruit salad to add brightness and refreshing contrast. Toasted crusty bread or warm biscuits are also fantastic for mopping up every cheesy, eggy bite.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive brunch or gathering, cut the casserole into individual squares and serve on colorful plates with a garnish of cherry tomatoes or sliced avocado. You can also add a side bowl of your favorite hot sauce or salsa for guests who crave a little kick.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap any leftover casserole tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, it will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making for easy breakfasts or snacks on busy mornings.
Freezing
This Hash Brown Egg Casserole Recipe freezes beautifully. To freeze, cool the casserole completely, then wrap it well with aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months, perfect for prepping meals ahead of time.
Reheating
Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes until warmed through. If reheating a whole casserole, cover it with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated evenly.
FAQs
Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the ham or bacon, and you can add extra vegetables like mushrooms or spinach to keep it flavorful and hearty without meat.
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?
While frozen hash browns are convenient and give consistent texture, you can use freshly grated potatoes if you prefer. Just be sure to squeeze out excess moisture to avoid a soggy casserole.
Is this recipe good for meal prepping?
Yes, this casserole is fantastic for meal prep. It reheats well and holds up nicely in the fridge or freezer, making it a great option for busy breakfasts throughout the week.
Can I substitute the cheddar cheese for another type?
Definitely! Feel free to swap cheddar for mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack if you want a little extra spice and melted gooeyness.
What if I want a gluten-free Hash Brown Egg Casserole Recipe?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free, just double-check that your frozen hash browns and other ingredients don’t contain any gluten additives or fillers.
Final Thoughts
This Hash Brown Egg Casserole Recipe is such a wonderful blend of simple ingredients coming together to create something truly comforting and delicious. Whether you’re feeding family, friends, or just treating yourself, this casserole will quickly become a go-to dish to start the day with a smile. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again!
“`
Print
Hash Brown Egg Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Breakfast Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This hearty Hash Brown Egg Casserole is a comforting breakfast dish perfect for family gatherings or a weekend brunch. Featuring crispy hash browns, melted cheddar cheese, and savory ham or bacon, all baked together with a seasoned egg and milk mixture, this casserole is easy to prepare and full of flavor.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 bag (30 oz) frozen hash browns, thawed
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup chopped cooked ham or cooked bacon, optional
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/2 cup diced bell pepper
Egg Mixture
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon ground mustard
Additional
- Cooking spray or butter for greasing
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly with cooking spray or butter to ensure the casserole doesn’t stick during baking.
- Mix Hash Browns and Vegetables. In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed hash browns, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped ham or bacon (if using), diced onion, and diced bell pepper. Mix all ingredients well until evenly combined.
- Spread Mixture in Baking Dish. Evenly spread the hash brown mixture in the bottom of the prepared baking dish, creating a uniform layer.
- Prepare Egg Mixture. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, paprika, and ground mustard until the mixture is smooth and all seasonings are well incorporated.
- Pour Egg Mixture Over Hash Browns. Carefully pour the egg mixture evenly over the hash brown layer in the baking dish, making sure to cover all the hash browns completely.
- Press Down the Mixture. Use a spatula to gently press down the mixture to help it settle and combine properly for an even bake.
- Bake the Casserole. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top turns lightly golden brown. Check doneness by inserting a knife; it should come out clean.
- Cool Before Serving. Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for 5-10 minutes. This helps the casserole firm up and makes it easier to slice.
- Serve and Enjoy. Slice the casserole into portions, serve warm, and enjoy a delicious and filling breakfast dish.
Notes
- You can substitute ham or bacon with cooked sausage if preferred.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the meat and consider adding extra vegetables like mushrooms or spinach.
- Make sure hash browns are fully thawed to ensure even cooking.
- This casserole can be prepared the night before—assemble it, cover tightly, and bake the next morning.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
