If you’re looking for the perfect comfort breakfast that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then you’ve got to try this Hash Brown Egg Casserole Recipe. It’s a wonderful blend of crispy hash browns, savory sausage or ham, melty cheddar cheese, and fluffy eggs baked together to golden perfection. Each bite offers a beautiful balance of textures and flavors that brings a smile to your face and makes mornings something to look forward to. Whether it’s a special weekend brunch or a cozy morning treat, this casserole shines as a hearty, satisfying crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to nailing this delightful breakfast casserole. The list is refreshingly simple and each component plays an essential role, from the crispy crunch of hash browns to the flavorful richness of cheese and meat, making every forkful a tasteful adventure.
- Frozen hash browns: Thawed to provide the perfect crispy base texture that holds the casserole together.
- Cooked sausage or diced ham: Adds a salty, savory punch that complements the other ingredients beautifully.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Brings creamy, gooey warmth that melts into every bite.
- Diced onion: Offers a mild sharpness and freshness to balance the richness.
- Diced bell pepper: Adds sweet color and subtle crunch for visual and taste appeal.
- Large eggs: The binding agent that creates a fluffy, tender interior.
- Milk: Lightens the egg mixture to keep the casserole moist and smooth.
- Salt and black pepper: Enhance all the flavors with just the right seasoning.
- Butter or non-stick cooking spray: Prevents sticking and adds a kiss of richness to the baking dish.
How to Make Hash Brown Egg Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats, grease a 9×13 inch baking dish thoroughly with the butter or non-stick cooking spray. This step ensures your casserole won’t stick and it helps develop a beautiful crust along the edges.
Step 2: Layer the Hash Browns
Next, spread the thawed hash browns evenly across the bottom of your prepared dish. This creates a crispy, golden base that supports all the delicious layers to come, setting the stage for the perfect balance of textures.
Step 3: Add the Meat
Sprinkle your cooked and crumbled sausage or diced ham evenly on top of the hash browns. This savory layer infuses the casserole with meaty goodness and lots of flavor that pairs impeccably with the eggs and cheese.
Step 4: Distribute the Veggies
Scatter the diced onion and bell pepper over the meat layer, making sure they’re spread out evenly. These vegetables add pops of sweetness and a subtle crunch that brighten the dish and make every bite exciting.
Step 5: Sprinkle the Cheese
Generously cover the vegetables and meat with shredded cheddar cheese. This layer will melt delightfully during baking, pulling everything together with its creamy and sharp notes.
Step 6: Mix and Pour the Egg Mixture
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and black pepper until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Pour this egg custard gently and evenly over the layered ingredients in the baking dish, making sure it seeps through all the nooks and crannies.
Step 7: Settle the Layers
Give your dish a gentle shake or tap so the egg mixture distributes evenly across the casserole. This helps everything bind together beautifully, ensuring consistent texture and flavor in every slice.
Step 8: Bake Until Golden
Place your dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the eggs are fully set, the top is golden brown, and the edges are slightly puffed up. That golden crust is pure magic!
Step 9: Cool and Slice
Let the casserole cool for about 5 minutes after baking. This brief rest allows it to firm up slightly, making it easier to slice and serve without losing any of that cheesy, eggy goodness.
How to Serve Hash Brown Egg Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your casserole, consider sprinkling some freshly chopped parsley or chives on top. These fresh herbs add a bright splash of color and a mild oniony flavor that complements the richness beautifully. A dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce can also add a delightful contrast.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit salad or a crisp green salad to balance out the hearty flavors. For extra indulgence, serve alongside warm, buttery toast or flaky biscuits for a complete and satisfying breakfast feast.
Creative Ways to Present
Try baking the casserole in individual ramekins for personal servings—perfect for brunch parties or meal prepping. Another fun idea is to layer it in a clear glass dish to showcase the beautiful layers of hash browns, meat, veggies, and melted cheese that make this Hash Brown Egg Casserole Recipe so irresistible.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your casserole, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it an easy option for quick breakfasts or snacks throughout the week.
Freezing
This casserole freezes beautifully. Simply wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap and foil, or place in freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing much of its flavor or texture, perfect for prep-ahead meals.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw if frozen, then warm individual servings in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes or until heated through. For best results and to bring back a little crispiness, reheat in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes.
FAQs
Can I use fresh hash browns instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh shredded potatoes work well too but make sure to squeeze out excess moisture before layering to avoid sogginess in your casserole.
Is there a vegetarian version of this Hash Brown Egg Casserole Recipe?
Yes! Simply omit the sausage or ham and add extra vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini. You could also substitute with plant-based sausage for a meat-free option.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time and bake it later?
Definitely! Assemble the casserole the night before, cover it tightly, and keep it refrigerated. When ready, just bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to baking time if starting cold.
What type of cheese works best in this casserole?
Cheddar is classic for its flavor and meltability, but you can experiment with Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a blend for different tastes and textures.
How do I know when the casserole is fully cooked?
The casserole is done when the eggs are set in the center, no longer runny, and the top has turned a lovely golden brown. A knife inserted in the middle should come out clean.
Final Thoughts
This Hash Brown Egg Casserole Recipe is one of those rare dishes that feels both comforting and celebratory. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for sharing with loved ones. I can’t recommend it enough for your next breakfast or brunch—it’s sure to become a beloved staple that you’ll keep coming back to time after time.
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Hash Brown Egg Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Halal
Description
This hearty Hash Brown Egg Casserole combines crispy hash browns, savory sausage or ham, colorful vegetables, and melted cheddar cheese all baked together in a creamy egg mixture. It’s a perfect make-ahead breakfast or brunch dish that’s satisfying and full of comforting flavors.
Ingredients
Base
- 1 lb (450g) frozen hash browns, thawed
Meat
- 1 cup (240ml) cooked and crumbled sausage or diced ham
Vegetables
- 1/4 cup (30g) diced onion
- 1/4 cup (30g) diced bell pepper
Dairy
- 1 cup (115g) shredded cheddar cheese
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup (240ml) milk
- 1 tablespoon butter or non-stick cooking spray
Seasonings
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish thoroughly with butter or non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Layer Hash Browns: Spread the thawed hash browns evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish to create a solid base layer.
- Add Meat: Evenly sprinkle the cooked and crumbled sausage or diced ham over the hash browns for savory flavor.
- Add Vegetables: Distribute the diced onion and bell pepper evenly across the meat and hash brown layer for color and freshness.
- Cheese Layer: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top of the vegetables and meat to add richness.
- Mix Egg Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and black pepper until the mixture is smooth and homogenous.
- Pour Egg Mixture: Carefully pour the egg mixture evenly over all the layered ingredients in the baking dish, ensuring it seeps into the layers well.
- Settle Mixture: Gently shake or tap the baking dish to help distribute the egg mixture evenly throughout the casserole layers.
- Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the eggs are fully set, the top is golden brown, and the casserole is slightly puffed.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from oven and let the casserole cool for about 5 minutes before slicing and serving to allow it to set for easier portioning.
Notes
- Use cooked sausage or ham to ensure the meat is fully cooked before baking in the casserole.
- Thaw hash browns fully to avoid excess moisture during baking.
- Feel free to customize the veggies with mushrooms, spinach, or tomatoes for extra nutrition and flavor.
- This casserole can be made a day ahead and refrigerated before baking for convenience.
- Leftovers store well in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat nicely in the oven or microwave.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Breakfast Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
