Description

This Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole is a hearty and comforting dish perfect for busy mornings or weekend brunches. Combining crispy hashbrowns, creamy eggs, gooey cheese, and savory breakfast meats, this casserole is easy to prepare, customizable, and feeds a crowd. Its make-ahead ease and versatile ingredients make it a favorite for families and gatherings alike.

Ingredients

Scale

Base Ingredients

4 cups frozen hashbrowns, thawed and drained
8 large eggs
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (or blend)
1 cup milk or cream

Protein (Optional)

1 cup cooked breakfast sausage or bacon, chopped

Vegetables

1/2 cup chopped onion
1/2 cup chopped bell peppers

Seasoning

1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Optional seasonings: herbs like thyme, smoked paprika, chili flakes

Instructions

Prepare Your Ingredients: Make sure the frozen hashbrowns are fully thawed and thoroughly drained to remove excess moisture for a crispier texture. Cook sausage or bacon until browned and chop into small pieces. Finely chop onion and bell peppers to ensure even flavor distribution.
Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk (or cream), salt, pepper, and any other seasonings you wish to add. This creamy mixture will bind the casserole and add moisture.
Combine Everything: Add the thawed hashbrowns, cooked meats, chopped vegetables, and shredded cheese into the egg mixture. Gently fold all ingredients together until evenly combined, being careful not to overmix to preserve texture.
Bake the Casserole: Grease a baking dish and spread the mixture evenly inside. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 45 to 55 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the eggs are fully set.
Let It Rest: Remove from the oven and allow the casserole to cool for 5 to 10 minutes. This resting time helps it firm up for easy and clean slicing.

Notes

Drain hashbrowns thoroughly to avoid a soggy casserole.
Use sharp cheddar cheese for better melting and stronger flavor.
Do not overfill the baking dish; leave some space for expansion during baking.
If the top browns too quickly, loosely cover with foil to ensure even cooking.
Customize seasoning with herbs like thyme or smoked paprika for added depth.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Category: Appetizers
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice (1/8 of casserole)
Calories: 350
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 550mg
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 24g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 15g
Cholesterol: 220mg

Keywords: breakfast casserole, hashbrown casserole, cheesy breakfast bake, make ahead breakfast, brunch recipe, comfort food