This Hash Brown Egg Casserole is a delightful and easy dish, perfect for any occasion. With its creamy texture and cheesy goodness, this casserole makes for a satisfying breakfast, brunch, or even dinner. The use of frozen hash brown patties simplifies the prep process, making it ideal for busy mornings or leisurely weekends. You can prepare it the same morning or even the night before, ensuring you have a delicious meal ready to go.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: Whip up this casserole in just 5 minutes of prep time.
- Versatile Meal: Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a comforting dinner.
- Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The combination of cheeses and ham creates a rich, savory dish that everyone will love.
- Make-Ahead Option: Prepare it the night before and simply bake it in the morning for convenience.
- Easy Cleanup: Everything cooks in one baking dish, making cleanup a breeze.
Tools and Preparation
To make your cooking experience seamless, gather these essential tools before you start.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 9×13 baking dish
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Aluminum foil
Importance of Each Tool
- 9×13 baking dish: This size is perfect for holding all the ingredients while ensuring even cooking.
- Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows you to whisk together eggs and other ingredients without spills.
- Whisk: Ensures that everything blends smoothly, creating a fluffy egg mixture.
Ingredients
This Hash Brown Egg Casserole is so quick and easy using frozen hash brown patties! Prepare it the same morning or the night before. Great recipe for breakfast, brunch, or dinner.
For the Casserole
- 8 precooked frozen hash brown patties (thawing is not necessary)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 & 1/2 cups diced leftover ham (about 3/4 pound)
- 2 scallions, diced
For the Custard 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.
Step 2: Arrange Hash Browns
Arrange the frozen hash brown patties in the bottom of your prepared baking dish in a single layer.
Step 3: Add Toppings
Sprinkle the cheeses, diced ham, and scallions evenly over the top of the hash browns.
Step 4: Mix Eggs and Milk
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, salt, dry mustard (if using), and garlic powder until well combined.
Step 5: Pour Custard Mixture
Pour this egg mixture evenly over the ham and cheese layer in the baking dish.
Step 6: Bake Covered
Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then remove the foil and continue baking for another 20 minutes or until golden brown at the edges. A knife inserted in the center should come out clean.
Step 7: Serve
Allow to cool for 5-10 minutes before cutting into portions. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious Hash Brown Egg Casserole!
How to Serve Hash Brown Egg Casserole
This Hash Brown Egg Casserole is versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or enjoying a family dinner, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dish.
Breakfast Platter
- Serve slices of the casserole alongside scrambled eggs for a hearty breakfast.
- Add fresh fruit like berries or sliced oranges for a refreshing contrast.
Brunch Buffet
- Pair with mimosas or coffee for a delightful brunch experience.
- Include a salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette to balance the flavors.
Family Dinner
- Serve with roasted vegetables for added nutrition and flavor.
- Offer warm bread rolls or croissants on the side for a comforting touch.
Meal Prep
- Slice and store leftovers in meal prep containers for easy lunches throughout the week.
- Pair with fresh veggies or a small salad for balanced meals on the go.
Potluck Favorite
- Bring this casserole to potlucks; it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
- Consider garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or chives before serving.
How to Perfect Hash Brown Egg Casserole
To achieve the best Hash Brown Egg Casserole, keep these tips in mind. They will help enhance flavors and ensure a perfect texture every time.
- Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh eggs and good-quality cheese make a noticeable difference in flavor.
- Don’t Skip the Mustard: Adding dry ground mustard enhances the overall taste of the casserole.
- Let It Rest: Allowing the casserole to cool slightly before cutting helps it hold its shape better.
- Experiment with Add-Ins: Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition.
- Adjust Cooking Time: Ovens vary; keep an eye on your casserole during baking for optimal results.
- Cover Properly: Ensuring it’s well-covered while baking prevents it from drying out.
Best Side Dishes for Hash Brown Egg Casserole
Enhance your meal by pairing your Hash Brown Egg Casserole with complementary side dishes. Here are some great options that work well together.
Fresh Fruit Salad
A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and freshness to your plate.Mixed Green Salad
Tossed greens with vinaigrette provide a crunchy texture that balances the casserole’s richness.Roasted Asparagus
Simple roasted asparagus drizzled with olive oil complements the hearty casserole perfectly.Sausage Links
Savory sausage links bring additional protein and flavor that pairs nicely with eggs.Cinnamon Rolls
Sweet cinnamon rolls can create a delightful contrast when served alongside your savory dish.Yogurt Parfaits
Layered yogurt with granola and berries offers a light and nutritious option that’s also visually appealing.Baked Beans
A side of sweet baked beans adds depth and comfort, making it great for family gatherings.Hash Browns (Classic)
For hash brown lovers, serving traditional crispy hash browns alongside is always a hit!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common mistakes can make your Hash Brown Egg Casserole even better. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Not Preheating the Oven: Always preheat your oven before baking. This ensures even cooking and a perfectly set casserole.
- Skipping the Greasing Step: Failing to grease the baking dish can lead to sticking. Use non-stick spray or butter to make serving easier.
- Overmixing the Eggs: Mixing the egg mixture too much can create a rubbery texture. Just whisk until combined for the best results.
- Using Cold Ingredients: Cold eggs or milk can affect cooking time. Allow them to come to room temperature for a more even bake.
- Neglecting to Let It Cool: Cutting into the casserole too soon can make it fall apart. Let it sit for a few minutes after baking for easier slicing.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- The casserole can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Hash Brown Egg Casserole
- Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers or bags.
- It will maintain quality for up to 2 months in the freezer.
Reheating Hash Brown Egg Casserole
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and cover with foil. Bake until heated through, about 20-25 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individual portions on medium power for 1-2 minutes or until hot.
- Stovetop: Warm slices in a skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally until hot throughout.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh hash browns instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh hash browns; just ensure they are fully cooked before layering.
What can I substitute for ham in Hash Brown Egg Casserole?
You can replace ham with cooked sausage, bacon, or even vegetables like spinach or bell peppers.
How do I make this Hash Brown Egg Casserole gluten-free?
Ensure all ingredients, especially cheese and seasonings, are certified gluten-free, and you’ll have a delicious gluten-free dish!
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble it the night before and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it.
Final Thoughts
This Hash Brown Egg Casserole is a fantastic and versatile dish perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dinner. With its easy preparation and delicious flavors, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients like different cheeses or veggies!
Hash Brown Egg Casserole
Looking for a comforting meal that’s both satisfying and easy to make? This Hash Brown Egg Casserole is the answer! With its creamy texture and savory flavor, this dish is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dinner. Using frozen hash brown patties means no peeling or grating—just layer them in your baking dish with cheese and diced ham for a hearty meal. Not only can you prepare this casserole the night before for a hassle-free morning, but it also feeds a crowd, making it ideal for gatherings. Enjoy the delightful combination of flavors while keeping cleanup simple; everything cooks in one dish!
- 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
- 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 hash brown patties in a single layer at the bottom of the dish.
- Sprinkle cheeses, diced ham, and scallions over the hash browns.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, dry mustard, and garlic powder until combined.
- Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layered ingredients.
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes; then remove foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes until edges are golden.
- Let cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 150g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 630mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 230mg
