The Best Breakfast Casserole

The Best Breakfast Casserole is a delicious and hearty dish perfect for breakfast or brunch. It combines layers of crispy hash brown potatoes, creamy eggs, and a choice of meats and cheeses. This dish is not only satisfying but also easy to prepare, making it a favorite for busy mornings or special occasions.

Why Make This Recipe

There are many great reasons to make this Breakfast Casserole. First, it’s a one-pan meal, which means less cleanup for you! Second, it can feed a crowd, making it an ideal choice for family gatherings or holiday brunches. Finally, it is versatile. You can customize it with your favorite meats and cheeses, ensuring everyone at the table enjoys it.

How to Make The Best Breakfast Casserole

Making The Best Breakfast Casserole is simple and straightforward. Just follow these steps, and you will have a mouthwatering dish ready to serve.

Ingredients:

• 24 ounces frozen shredded hash brown potatoes
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• 12 large eggs
• 2 cups half and half
• 1 teaspoon seasoned salt
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 ½ cups shredded pepper jack cheese
• 2 cups chopped ham (or sausage, bacon, or your preferred meat)

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Spray a 13 x 9 x 2-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
3. Add the frozen shredded hash brown potatoes to the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together the 12 large eggs.
5. Add the 2 cups of half and half and 1 teaspoon of seasoned salt. Whisk until well combined.
6. Stir in the 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese, 1 ½ cups of shredded pepper jack cheese, and 2 cups of chopped ham.
7. Pour the egg mixture over the frozen hash browns, making sure the potatoes are evenly covered.
8. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to let the flavors meld.
9. Just before you’re ready to serve, bake the casserole uncovered for 60 to 75 minutes, or until it is set and lightly golden on top.
10. Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with green onions if desired!

How to Serve The Best Breakfast Casserole

Serve The Best Breakfast Casserole warm and cut into squares. It pairs wonderfully with a side of fresh fruit, toast, or even a light salad. For added flair, you can garnish it with chopped green onions or a dollop of sour cream.

How to Store The Best Breakfast Casserole

If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place your desired portion in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

Tips to Make The Best Breakfast Casserole

• Make it Ahead: You can prepare this casserole a day in advance. Just assemble the ingredients, cover, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: While frozen hash browns are convenient, using freshly grated potatoes can give your casserole an even better texture.
• Add Veggies: Feel free to throw in some diced bell peppers, onions, or spinach for added flavor and nutrition.

Variation

Try different meats to switch things up! Substitute the ham for crumbled sausage, crispy bacon, or even keep it vegetarian by using extra veggies and cheese.

FAQs

1. Can I freeze The Best Breakfast Casserole?
Yes! You can freeze the unbaked casserole. Just cover it tightly with foil. When you’re ready to bake it, let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator before cooking.

2. Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! You can mix and match your favorite cheeses. Mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even feta can be great alternatives.

3. How long does it take to bake?
The baking time can vary between 60 to 75 minutes, depending on your oven. It’s done when the center is set and the top is golden.

The Best Breakfast Casserole is the perfect dish to start your day on a delicious note. Easy to prepare and delightful in taste, it’s sure to become a staple in your breakfast recipes!

The Best Breakfast Casserole

A hearty breakfast or brunch dish with layers of crispy hash browns, creamy eggs, and a choice of meats and cheeses, perfect for feeding a crowd.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 2 hours hrs

Cook Time 1 hour hr 15 minutes mins

Total Time 3 hours hrs 15 minutes mins

Course Breakfast, Brunch

Cuisine American

Servings 8 servings

Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients

  

Base Ingredients

• 24 ounces frozen shredded hash brown potatoes You can substitute with freshly grated potatoes for better texture.
• to taste Salt and pepper

Egg Mixture

• 12 large eggs
• 2 cups half and half
• 1 teaspoon seasoned salt

Cheeses

• 1.5 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1.5 cups shredded pepper jack cheese

Meats

• 2 cups chopped ham Can substitute with sausage or bacon.

Instructions

 

Preparation

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Spray a 13 x 9 x 2-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
• Add the frozen shredded hash brown potatoes to the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
• In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs.
• Add the half and half and seasoned salt. Whisk until well combined.
• Stir in the cheddar cheese, pepper jack cheese, and chopped ham.
• Pour the egg mixture over the frozen hash browns, making sure the potatoes are evenly covered.
• Cover the dish with aluminum foil and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.

Baking

• Just before serving, bake the casserole uncovered for 60 to 75 minutes, or until it is set and lightly golden on top.
• Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

For added flair, you can garnish with chopped green onions or a dollop of sour cream. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Keyword Breakfast Casserole, Brunch Recipes, Easy Breakfast, Hearty Breakfast, One-Pan Meal