Hash Brown Egg Casserole Recipe

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If you’re on the lookout for a hearty, comforting dish that brings breakfast and brunch lovers together, this Hash Brown Egg Casserole will become your go-to favorite in no time. Packed with layers of crispy, golden hash browns, gooey melted cheese, savory ham, and fluffy baked eggs, this casserole combines simple ingredients into a show-stopping dish that fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas. It’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser that’s both easy to make and endlessly satisfying, perfect for feeding a hungry family or impressing guests.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Hash Brown Egg Casserole plays a starring role in building flavor, texture, and color. From the crispy edges of the hash browns to the creamy custard-like eggs and the savory punch of ham, each component works together effortlessly to create a dish that’s as delicious as it is comforting.

• 8 precooked frozen hash brown patties: No need to thaw – these form the crispy, golden base that gives the casserole its irresistible crunch.
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Adds bold, tangy flavor and a melty texture that binds the dish together perfectly.
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese: Provides a creamy, slightly sweet contrast to the cheddar for a balanced cheesy goodness.
• 1 & 1/2 cups diced leftover ham (about 3/4 pound): Offers savory saltiness and hearty bites to keep each serving rich and satisfying.
• 2 scallions, diced: These little green gems add a fresh, mild onion flavor and a splash of vibrant color.
• 9 large eggs: The custard base that holds the casserole together with a soft, fluffy texture.
• 1 cup whole milk: Adds creaminess and ensures the eggs bake to tender perfection.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential seasoning that enhances all the flavors in the dish.
• 1/2 teaspoon dry ground mustard (optional but recommended): A subtle tang that lifts the flavor of the egg custard and gives the casserole a little depth.
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds gentle warmth and a hint of savory richness.

How to Make Hash Brown Egg Casserole

Step 1: Prep and Layer the Base

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F and greasing a 9×13 baking dish to prevent sticking. Lay out the frozen hash brown patties evenly in a single layer – no thawing needed. This crispy foundation will become golden and delightful once baked, supporting all the tasty layers above.

Step 2: Add Cheese, Ham, and Scallions

Next, sprinkle the shredded sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses evenly over the hash browns. Then scatter the diced ham and fresh scallions on top. These ingredients bring a mix of sharp, creamy, and savory flavors along with bursts of freshness that will shine in every bite.

Step 3: Whisk and Pour the Egg Mixture

In a large bowl, vigorously whisk together the eggs, whole milk, salt, dry ground mustard, and garlic powder until smooth and well combined. Pour this creamy custard mixture evenly over the layered hash browns, cheese, and ham, letting it soak in and bind the casserole together beautifully.

Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection

Cover your casserole with foil and bake for 25 minutes to allow the eggs to set gently. Then remove the foil for an additional 20 minutes or until the edges turn a gorgeous golden color and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the casserole rest for 5 to 10 minutes to firm up before slicing and serving.

How to Serve Hash Brown Egg Casserole

Garnishes

To make your Hash Brown Egg Casserole truly shine and add a pop of color, scatter freshly chopped parsley, chives, or a little extra diced scallion on top right before serving. A dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce can also bring refreshing creaminess or a spicy kick for those who like to mix things up.

Side Dishes

This casserole pairs wonderfully with crisp, refreshing sides that balance its rich, cheesy goodness. A fresh green salad or roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts can add brightness and texture, making the meal feel complete and well-rounded.

Creative Ways to Present

For gatherings, prepare the Hash Brown Egg Casserole in smaller individual ramekins for a fun twist or serve it buffet-style so guests can help themselves. You might also consider topping it with slices of avocado or crispy bacon for added layers of flavor and texture that wow your guests every time.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your meal, let the casserole cool completely and store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 to 4 days, giving you easy, ready-to-reheat meals during busy mornings or lazy weekends.

Freezing

This Hash Brown Egg Casserole freezes wonderfully, making it a great make-ahead option. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best results.

Reheating

To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for 1 to 2 minutes, or warm the whole casserole in a 350-degree oven until heated through. This keeps the cheesy, eggy textures moist and tender without drying out the casserole.

FAQs

Can I use fresh hash browns instead of frozen hash brown patties?

Absolutely! If you prefer, you can use about 4 cups of shredded fresh or frozen hash browns. Just make sure to squeeze out excess moisture to prevent the casserole from becoming watery.

What can I substitute for ham if I want a vegetarian version?

Try sliced mushrooms, sautéed bell peppers, or even cooked spinach to maintain savory depth without the meat. These will add wonderful texture and flavor while keeping the dish hearty.

Can I make this casserole dairy-free or lower in fat?

You can swap the cheeses for dairy-free alternatives and use a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk. Using egg whites or an egg substitute can reduce fat, but be mindful it might change the casserole’s rich texture a bit.

Is it okay to prepare this casserole the night before baking?

Yes! Assemble everything the night before, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake it covered at 350 degrees for a few extra minutes to ensure it cooks thoroughly and the eggs set properly.

Can I add other ingredients like vegetables or herbs?

Definitely. Spinach, bell peppers, mushrooms, or fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can be added to customize your Hash Brown Egg Casserole. Just be careful not to add too much moisture as it may affect the texture.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly comforting about a warm, cheesy Hash Brown Egg Casserole fresh from the oven that makes mornings feel a little brighter and gatherings a little cozier. This dish is a fantastic way to turn simple, everyday ingredients into a showstopper everyone will rave about. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a beloved staple in your kitchen—whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself.

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