This Hash Brown Egg Casserole is a delightful and easy dish that you can whip up in no time. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a cozy dinner, this recipe uses frozen hash brown patties, making it incredibly convenient. The combination of creamy eggs, rich cheeses, and savory ham creates a flavorful experience that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a quiet meal at home, this casserole is versatile and satisfying.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With just 5 minutes of prep, you can have a delicious meal ready to go.
- Flexible Ingredients: Use whatever leftover meats or vegetables you have on hand for a personalized twist.
- Make Ahead Option: Prepare it the night before and just pop it in the oven in the morning for effortless entertaining.
- Crowd-Pleaser: This casserole serves eight, making it ideal for family gatherings or brunch with friends.
- Comfort Food: Packed with cheese and eggs, this dish is hearty and comforting—perfect for any time of day.
Tools and Preparation
To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare your Hash Brown Egg Casserole.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 9×13 baking dish
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Grease spray or brush
Importance of Each Tool
- 9×13 baking dish: Provides ample space for the casserole to bake evenly.
- Mixing bowl: Allows for easy whisking of ingredients without spills.
- Whisk: Ensures that eggs are thoroughly beaten and mixed with other ingredients for a fluffy texture.
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.
Main Ingredients
- 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)
- 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 with cooking spray or brush with oil to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Arrange Hash Browns
Arrange the frozen hash brown patties in the greased baking dish in a single layer. This will form the base of your casserole.
Step 3: Add Cheeses, Ham, and Scallions
Sprinkle both types of cheese evenly over the top of the hash browns. Next, add the diced ham and scallions to create layers of flavor.
Step 4: Mix Eggs and Milk
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, dry ground mustard (if using), and garlic powder until well combined.
Step 5: Pour Custard Mixture
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the ham mixture. Ensure all ingredients are coated well for even cooking.
Step 6: Bake Covered
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. This helps set the casserole without browning too quickly.
Step 7: Finish Baking Uncovered
After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes or until the edges are golden brown. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean when done.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Allow to cool for about 5-10 minutes before cutting into portions. Serve warm and enjoy this delightful Hash Brown Egg Casserole!
How to Serve Hash Brown Egg Casserole
Serving Hash Brown Egg Casserole can be as creative as you want! This dish is versatile and pairs well with various sides and toppings. Here are some ideas to elevate your meal.
With Fresh Herbs
- Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and flavor.
- Chives: Add chopped chives for a mild onion taste that complements the casserole.
With Hot Sauce
- Spicy Kick: Drizzle your favorite hot sauce over individual servings for an exciting flavor boost.
- Sriracha: A little Sriracha adds both heat and sweetness, enhancing the dish’s richness.
With Avocado
- Sliced Avocado: Top each serving with slices of ripe avocado for creaminess.
- Guacamole: Serve alongside a small bowl of guacamole for added flavor and texture.
With Salad
- Mixed Greens: A side of mixed greens dressed lightly can bring freshness to your plate.
- Fruit Salad: For a sweet contrast, serve with a refreshing fruit salad featuring seasonal fruits.
With Breads
- Toast: Serve with crusty toast or bagels for a hearty breakfast.
- Dinner Rolls: Soft dinner rolls are perfect for soaking up any remaining egg mixture on your plate.
How to Perfect Hash Brown Egg Casserole
To ensure your Hash Brown Egg Casserole turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips:
- Use Frozen Patties: Using frozen hash brown patties saves time and provides consistent results without thawing.
- Quality Cheese: Choose high-quality cheese like sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack for rich flavors.
- Egg Mixture Consistency: Whisk the eggs thoroughly to ensure even distribution throughout the casserole.
- Bake Covered First: Covering the dish while baking helps it cook evenly and prevents drying out.
- Let it Rest: Allowing the casserole to cool slightly before cutting makes serving easier and retains moisture.
Best Side Dishes for Hash Brown Egg Casserole
Pair your Hash Brown Egg Casserole with these delightful sides to create a balanced meal.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds sweetness and brightness to your breakfast table.
- Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layer Greek yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy, crunchy side.
- Crispy Bacon: The salty crunch of bacon complements the rich flavors of the casserole beautifully.
- Pancakes or Waffles: Sweet pancakes or waffles create a wonderful contrast with savory dishes.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies can add color and nutrition to your meal.
- Smoothie Bowl: A blended fruit smoothie bowl topped with nuts or seeds offers a refreshing touch.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making your Hash Brown Egg Casserole, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the outcome. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.
- Skipping the Greasing Step: Always grease the baking dish before adding the hash browns. This prevents sticking and makes for easier cleanup.
- Overcrowding the Ingredients: Don’t pile on too many toppings. Stick to the recommended amounts for an even cook and balanced flavor.
- Not Whisking Enough: Ensure you whisk the egg mixture thoroughly. This helps achieve a creamy texture throughout the casserole.
- Ignoring Baking Times: Keep an eye on the cooking time. If you bake too long, the casserole may dry out; if too short, it might be undercooked.
- Cutting Too Soon: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before slicing. This helps it set properly and keeps it from falling apart.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Hash Brown Egg Casserole in an airtight container.
- It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing Hash Brown Egg Casserole
- Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.
Reheating Hash Brown Egg Casserole
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and reheat covered with foil until warmed through (about 20 minutes).
- Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
- Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium heat, cover, and warm until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you’re curious about making this Hash Brown Egg Casserole, check out these common questions and their answers.
Can I use fresh hash browns instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh hash browns. Just make sure to cook them slightly before layering.
How can I customize my Hash Brown Egg Casserole?
Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare it the night before and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes! This casserole is perfect for meal prep as it stores well and reheats easily.
Final Thoughts
This Hash Brown Egg Casserole is not just quick and easy; it’s also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with your favorite ingredients or leftovers, making it perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner. Give this recipe a try; you’ll love how comforting and satisfying it is!
Hash Brown Egg Casserole
Hash Brown Egg Casserole is a comforting dish that effortlessly combines convenience and flavor, making it an ideal choice for breakfast, brunch, or dinner. With just five minutes of preparation, this casserole layers frozen hash brown patties with rich cheeses, savory ham, and creamy eggs. It’s not only easy to customize with your favorite leftover ingredients but also makes for a fantastic make-ahead option for busy mornings. Whether serving a crowd or enjoying a cozy night in, this casserole is sure to satisfy everyone at the table.
- 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)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13 baking dish.
- Arrange frozen hash brown patties in a single layer in the dish.
- Sprinkle both cheeses over the hash browns, followed by the diced ham and scallions.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, dry mustard, and garlic powder until well combined.
- Pour the egg mixture over the layered ingredients.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes; then remove foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes until golden brown.
- Let cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing into portions.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/8 of casserole (approximately 150g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 19g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 17g
- Cholesterol: 230mg
