Hash Brown Egg Casserole

Growing up, weekend breakfasts were a special affair in my family. My mom had a knack for making simple yet satisfying meals, and her breakfast casseroles were a staple. Whether it was a lazy Sunday morning or a holiday gathering, the aroma of eggs, cheese, and crispy potatoes baking in the oven always made the house feel warm and inviting. This Hash Brown Egg Casserole is the perfect dish for beginner cooks who want a no-fuss, delicious breakfast that brings people together.

This recipe is easy, quick, and versatile, making it a fantastic choice for anyone new to cooking. It requires minimal prep, comes together in minutes, and bakes to golden perfection. Plus, it’s a great make-ahead meal, so you can enjoy a stress-free morning. Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal prepping for the week, or hosting brunch, this casserole will become your go-to dish.

Why This Recipe is Special

1. Beginner-Friendly – With simple ingredients and easy steps, anyone can make this casserole successfully.
2. Make-Ahead Convenience – You can prepare it the night before and bake it fresh in the morning.
3. Customizable – Swap out ingredients to fit dietary preferences or whatever you have on hand.
4. Hearty & Satisfying – Packed with protein, cheesy goodness, and crispy hash browns, it’s a complete meal in one dish.
5. Great for Any Occasion – Whether it’s a holiday breakfast, a weekend brunch, or even breakfast-for-dinner, this dish fits the bill.

Ingredients and Their Roles

• Frozen Hash Brown Patties – Provide a crispy, golden base and make preparation effortless. You can also use shredded hash browns or tater tots.
• Cheddar & Monterey Jack Cheese – Adds richness and a gooey texture. Feel free to swap with mozzarella, Swiss, or pepper jack for variety.
• Diced Ham – A great way to use up leftover ham, but cooked sausage, bacon, or even sautéed veggies work well too.
• Scallions – Add a mild onion flavor without being overpowering. You can replace them with chives or finely chopped onions.
• Eggs – Bind everything together while adding protein and a fluffy texture.
• Milk – Creates a creamy, custard-like consistency in the casserole. You can use whole milk, half-and-half, or even a non-dairy alternative.
• Seasonings (Salt, Dry Mustard, Garlic Powder) – Enhance the flavor and give depth to the dish. Dry mustard adds a subtle tang but can be omitted if needed.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Arrange the frozen hash brown patties in a single layer in the baking dish. No need to thaw them; they will crisp up beautifully in the oven.

Step 3: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the hash browns. Then, add the diced ham and chopped scallions, spreading them out so every bite has flavor.

Step 4: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, dry mustard (if using), and garlic powder until smooth. This mixture will create the creamy, custardy base of the casserole.

Step 5: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the hash brown and ham mixture, ensuring all ingredients are coated.

Step 6: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 20 minutes, or until the edges are golden and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Let the casserole cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the ingredients to set, making it easier to cut.

Beginner Tips and Notes

• Crispier Hash Browns – If you prefer extra crispy potatoes, bake the hash brown patties separately for 10 minutes before assembling the casserole.
• How to Tell If It’s Done – The casserole should be firm in the center and not jiggly. Insert a knife or toothpick into the middle—if it comes out clean, it’s ready.
• Vegetarian Option – Skip the meat and add sautéed onions, bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach.
• Dairy-Free Alternative – Use plant-based milk and dairy-free cheese to accommodate dietary needs.
• Make It Spicy – Add diced jalapeños or use pepper jack cheese for some heat.

Serving Suggestions

This hash brown egg casserole is a complete meal on its own, but you can serve it with:

• Fresh Fruit Salad – A refreshing balance to the rich, cheesy flavors.
• Roasted Vegetables – Asparagus, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers pair well with this dish.
• Toast or Biscuits – A great way to soak up any leftover goodness from the casserole.
• Hot Sauce or Salsa – A drizzle of your favorite sauce adds an extra kick of flavor.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

• Refrigeration: Let the casserole cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Wrap individual portions in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes or microwave individual servings for 1-2 minutes.

Try It and Share Your Thoughts

I hope this easy hash brown egg casserole becomes a favorite in your home! Whether you make it for a weekend breakfast, holiday brunch, or meal prep for the week, it’s a dish that delivers every time.

If you try this recipe, let me know how it turned out in the comments! Do you have a favorite ingredient swap or a special way you serve it? I’d love to hear from you.

Happy cooking!

FAQ About Hash Brown Egg Casserole

More Relevant Recipes

• Crack Breakfast Casserole Recipe
• Homemade McDonald’s Hash Browns
• No Peek Chicken Rice Casserole

Print