There’s something magical about a breakfast casserole with hashbrowns that brings the whole family together. Imagine the warm, hearty aroma wafting through your kitchen, making everyone’s stomach grumble in anticipation. The crispy golden hashbrowns, fluffy eggs, and melty cheese come together to create a dish that’s not just food; it’s a warm hug on a plate.
Thinking back to Sunday brunches at my grandmother’s house, the breakfast casserole was always the star of the show. Friends and family gathered around the table, eagerly digging into this delightful dish that never failed to impress. Whether it’s a cozy family gathering or an extravagant holiday feast, this breakfast casserole is a crowd-pleaser that promises to brighten any occasion.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This breakfast casserole with hashbrowns is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy mornings
- The combination of flavors creates a savory masterpiece that everyone will love
- Its vibrant presentation makes it an eye-catching centerpiece for any brunch table
- Plus, you can customize it with your favorite ingredients for endless variations!
This dish has become a staple in our home after my kids declared it “the best thing ever” during one chaotic Saturday morning when we had leftover hashbrowns.
Essential Ingredients
To whip up this delicious breakfast casserole with hashbrowns, gather these ingredients:
Hashbrowns: Frozen or freshly grated, choose what suits your schedule best; they should be crispy to hold everything together.
Eggs: Use large eggs for fluffiness; they bind all ingredients beautifully and give structure.
Milk: Whole milk adds creaminess; opt for low-fat if you prefer a lighter option.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives intense flavor; feel free to mix in other cheeses like Monterey Jack for variety.
Cooked Sausage or Bacon: For extra protein and flavor; use crumbled sausage or crispy bacon bits as desired.
Onion and Bell Peppers: Freshly diced vegetables add crunch and sweetness; sauté them first for better flavor.
Seasonings: Salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika elevate the taste; adjust based on your spice tolerance.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make It Together
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 baking dish with cooking spray. Spread the hashbrowns evenly across the bottom of the dish. This layer should be nice and crispy!
Sauté Your Vegetables: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of oil and toss in your diced onion and bell peppers. Cook until just tender and fragrant—about five minutes will do. Let those veggies work their magic!
Prepare Egg Mixture: In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs and milk until frothy. Season generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika for that flavor kick. Don’t forget—this is where you can express yourself!
Add Your Meats: Fold in cooked sausage or bacon into the egg mixture gently. This step ensures every bite has that savory goodness. Trust me; this is where dreams come true.
Combine Everything: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the hashbrowns in your baking dish. Sprinkle cheddar cheese on top like you’re granting wishes! Bake uncovered in preheated oven for about 35-40 minutes or until set and golden brown.
Cool Down & Serve: Once out of the oven, let it cool slightly before slicing into squares. Serve warm at brunch or enjoy leftovers throughout the week!
And there you have it: an unforgettable breakfast casserole with hashbrowns that will bring smiles around your table!
You Must Know
- This breakfast casserole with hashbrowns is a morning game-changer
- It’s easy to prepare ahead of time, making busy mornings stress-free
- The aroma of cheesy goodness fills your kitchen, creating a cozy atmosphere that makes even the grumpiest early riser smile
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook the hashbrowns until golden brown before layering them. This ensures a crispy base that won’t turn soggy under the weight of all those delicious ingredients.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the proteins! Use crumbled sausage, bacon, or even diced veggies. You can also play with different cheeses like pepper jack for a spicy kick or feta for a tangy twist.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, ensuring it’s warmed through and crispy again.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Ensure you salt your hashbrowns before cooking; this enhances their flavor dramatically
- Mix your eggs well to get an even texture throughout
- Allow it to cool slightly before cutting; this helps maintain its shape when serving
Crafting this breakfast casserole with hashbrowns always brings back memories of family brunches where laughter filled the air and everyone left happy and full.
FAQ
Can I make this breakfast casserole with hashbrowns ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare it the night before and store it in the fridge.
What type of cheese works best?
Cheddar is classic, but feel free to experiment with your favorite cheese blends.
How long can I store leftovers?
Leftovers last up to three days when stored properly in an airtight container.
Breakfast Casserole with Hashbrowns
Start your day with this delightful breakfast casserole featuring crispy hashbrowns, fluffy eggs, and gooey cheddar cheese. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy brunch, this dish is not only easy to prepare but also customizable to suit everyone’s taste. Whether you add sausage, bacon, or extra veggies, this casserole promises to be the star of your morning table!
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 8
Ingredients
- 4 cups frozen hashbrowns
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup cooked sausage or crumbled bacon
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 baking dish.
- Spread hashbrowns evenly in the dish and bake until golden brown, about 25 minutes.
- In a skillet over medium heat, sauté onions and bell peppers until tender.
- In a bowl, whisk together eggs and milk; season with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Fold in cooked sausage or bacon before combining the egg mixture with the hashbrowns.
- Top with cheddar cheese and bake for an additional 35-40 minutes until set.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 65 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (150g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 210mg
