This Hash Brown Egg Casserole is the perfect dish for any meal of the day! Quick to prepare and packed with flavor, it features frozen hash brown patties that make cooking a breeze. Whether it’s breakfast, brunch, or dinner, this casserole is sure to please your family and friends. Its versatility allows you to whip it up fresh or prepare it the night before, making it an excellent choice for busy mornings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With just 5 minutes of prep time, you can have this dish ready for the oven.
- Versatile Meal Option: Ideal for breakfast, brunch, or even a satisfying dinner.
- Rich in Flavor: The combination of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese with ham creates a deliciously savory taste.
- Easily Customizable: Feel free to add veggies or swap the meats based on your preference.
- Feeds a Crowd: Perfect for gatherings, serving up to 8 portions with ease.
Tools and Preparation
For making this delicious Hash Brown Egg Casserole, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having these items on hand will streamline your cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 9×13 baking dish
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring cups
- Knife and cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- 9×13 baking dish: This size is ideal for evenly baking your casserole and ensuring all portions are cooked through.
- Large mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows you to mix ingredients thoroughly without spills or mess.
Ingredients
For the Casserole Base
- 8 precooked frozen hash brown patties (thawing is not necessary)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
For the Filling
- 1 & 1/2 cups diced leftover ham (about 3/4 pound)
- 2 scallions (diced)
For the Egg Mixture
- 9 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon dry ground mustard (optional but recommended)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
How to Make Hash Brown Egg Casserole
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Grease a 9×13 baking dish to prevent sticking when serving.
Step 2: Arrange Hash Browns
Arrange the frozen hash brown patties in the greased baking dish in a single layer. This forms the base of your casserole.
Step 3: Add Toppings
Sprinkle both cheeses, diced ham, and scallions evenly over the top of the hash browns. Ensure everything is distributed evenly for consistent flavor in every bite.
Step 4: Prepare the Egg Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, salt, dry ground mustard (if using), and garlic powder until well combined.
Step 5: Combine Ingredients
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the ham and cheese layer in the baking dish. This will bind all ingredients together as it cooks.
Step 6: Bake It Up!
Cover your casserole with foil and bake for 25 minutes. After that time, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 20 minutes or until edges are golden brown and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Once baked, allow your Hash Brown Egg Casserole to cool for about 5-10 minutes. Cut into portions and serve warm. Enjoy!
How to Serve Hash Brown Egg Casserole
Serving Hash Brown Egg Casserole is easy and versatile. This dish works well for breakfast, brunch, or even a light dinner. Here are some creative ways to serve it.
With Fresh Fruit
- Fresh berries: Serve alongside strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a refreshing contrast.
- Sliced melons: Add a side of cantaloupe or honeydew for a juicy sweetness.
With Avocado Toast
- Creamy avocado: Spread mashed avocado on whole-grain bread for a delicious and nutritious pairing.
- Topped with eggs: Add an extra poached egg on top for an indulgent touch.
With a Green Salad
- Mixed greens: Offer a light side salad with arugula, spinach, and a zesty vinaigrette.
- Seasonal vegetables: Include cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and radishes for added crunch.
With Salsa or Hot Sauce
- Spicy kick: Drizzle salsa over the casserole for a tangy flavor boost.
- Hot sauce: Provide different hot sauce options to spice up each serving.
With Yogurt and Granola
- Creamy yogurt: Serve with a dollop of Greek yogurt on the side for added protein.
- Crunchy granola: Sprinkle granola over the yogurt for texture and sweetness.
How to Perfect Hash Brown Egg Casserole
To achieve the best Hash Brown Egg Casserole, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure your casserole turns out perfectly every time.
- Use quality cheese: Opt for freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-packaged to enhance flavor.
- Add veggies: Incorporate bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition and color.
- Season well: Don’t skip the salt and spices; they elevate the overall taste of the dish.
- Let it rest: Allow the casserole to cool slightly before cutting to maintain its shape.
- Customize proteins: Swap ham with bacon or sausage according to your preference.
- Make ahead: Prepare it the night before for easy morning baking.
Best Side Dishes for Hash Brown Egg Casserole
Pairing side dishes with your Hash Brown Egg Casserole can elevate your meal. Here are some fantastic options that complement this hearty dish.
- Crispy Bacon: Serve crispy bacon strips as a savory addition that balances well with eggs.
- Breakfast Sausages: Link or patty sausages add more protein and flavor variety to your plate.
- Toast with Jam: A slice of buttered toast topped with jam offers a sweet contrast to the savory casserole.
- Roasted Potatoes: Seasoned roasted potatoes provide additional heartiness that pairs nicely.
- Fruit Salad: A colorful fruit salad refreshes the palate and adds brightness to your meal.
- Pancakes or Waffles: Include pancakes or waffles drizzled with maple syrup for a comforting breakfast spread.
- Smoothie Bowl: A smoothie bowl filled with fruits can be a healthy choice alongside this dish.
- Mimosas: For brunch occasions, serve mimosas as a festive drink pairing that complements breakfast flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making a Hash Brown Egg Casserole can be simple, but certain missteps can hinder your results. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:
Ignoring the layering: Not layering the ingredients properly can lead to uneven cooking. Always arrange the hash browns at the bottom, followed by cheese, ham, and scallions.
Overmixing the egg mixture: Mixing too much can create a rubbery texture. Whisk just until combined for the best results.
Skipping the resting time: Cutting into the casserole immediately can cause it to fall apart. Allow it to cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Not adjusting for leftovers: If you use different types of meat or cheese, adjust the cooking time as necessary. Thicker layers may need longer baking.
Using expired ingredients: Always check that your eggs and dairy are fresh. This will ensure the best flavor and safety in your dish.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
- Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing Hash Brown Egg Casserole
- Wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Freeze for up to 2-3 months for best quality.
Reheating Hash Brown Egg Casserole
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat covered for about 20-25 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individual portions on high for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
- Stovetop: Reheat slices in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common queries regarding the Hash Brown Egg Casserole:
Can I prepare Hash Brown Egg Casserole ahead of time?
You can prepare it the night before! Simply assemble and refrigerate before baking in the morning.
Can I use other ingredients in my Hash Brown Egg Casserole?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize with vegetables or different meats like bacon or sausage.
How do I know when my Hash Brown Egg Casserole is done?
It’s done when edges are golden, and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
What should I serve with my Hash Brown Egg Casserole?
This dish pairs well with fresh fruit, yogurt, or a light salad for a balanced meal.
Final Thoughts
This Hash Brown Egg Casserole is not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with various ingredients based on your preferences. Whether it’s breakfast, brunch, or dinner, this dish promises comfort and satisfaction. Give it a try today!
Hash Brown Egg Casserole
Hash Brown Egg Casserole is a deliciously hearty dish that perfectly balances flavors and textures in every bite. This versatile casserole is ideal for breakfast, brunch, or even a light dinner. With only five minutes of prep time, you can easily whip it up using frozen hash brown patties, making it a fantastic option for busy mornings or family gatherings. Loaded with sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese, savory ham, and wholesome eggs, this recipe is not only quick to prepare but also fully customizable—add your favorite veggies or switch out the meats to suit your taste! Serve it warm alongside fresh fruit or a green salad for a well-rounded meal that everyone will love.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 8 precooked frozen hash brown patties
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 & 1/2 cups diced leftover ham
- 2 scallions (diced)
- 9 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon dry ground mustard (optional but recommended)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13 baking dish.
- Arrange frozen hash brown patties in the baking dish in a single layer.
- Sprinkle both cheeses, diced ham, and scallions evenly over hash browns.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, dry mustard (if using), and garlic powder.
- Pour the egg mixture evenly over the casserole.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes; then remove foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes until edges are golden.
- Cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 19g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 220mg
