This Cheesy Hashbrown Egg Casserole is a warm, cozy dish that’s perfect for breakfast or brunch. With crispy hashbrowns, cheesy goodness, and fluffy eggs, it’s a crowd-pleaser!
Honestly, who can resist a cheesy, potato-packed dish? It’s so simple; just mix, bake, and enjoy! I love serving it with fresh fruit for a colorful plate. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Hashbrowns: Frozen hashbrowns make this dish super easy! If you prefer fresh, you can shred raw potatoes, but be sure to squeeze out excess moisture. Sweet potatoes could be a fun twist too!
Diced Cooked Ham: Ham adds great flavor, but you can leave it out for a vegetarian version. Alternatively, turkey bacon or sausage works well for protein. Tofu could also be an egg-free choice.
Cheddar Cheese: I love sharp cheddar for its strong flavor. If you’re looking for something milder, go with Monterey Jack or Gouda, or mix in a little feta for a tangy twist!
Onion: A small onion adds sweetness. You can replace it with green onions or even shallots if you like a milder onion taste. Garlic could add an extra punch as well.
How Do You Ensure the Eggs are Perfectly Set?
Getting the eggs just right is crucial for this casserole. Here’s how to do it:
- Whisk the eggs well with the milk and sour cream. This will help incorporate air, making the eggs fluffy.
- Make sure to bake it long enough! If it jiggles in the center, it needs more time.
- Let it sit a few minutes after baking. This helps firm it up, making it easier to slice.
Having the right baking dish size also matters; a 9×13-inch dish allows for even cooking. Enjoy your delicious breakfast!
Cheesy Hashbrown Egg Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 1 (30 oz) package frozen hashbrowns, thawed
- 1 cup diced cooked ham (optional)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
Egg Mixture:
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional)
For Garnish:
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 45 to 55 minutes to bake, for a total of approximately 1 hour to 1 hour and 10 minutes. After baking, let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving. Perfect for brunch with friends or family!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating up, grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
2. Layer the Hashbrowns:
Once your oven is ready, spread the thawed hashbrowns evenly in the bottom of your greased baking dish. This will be the hearty base of your casserole.
3. Add Flavorful Ingredients:
Sprinkle the diced ham (if using), chopped onion, and a generous 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese on top of the hashbrowns. This will infuse tasty flavor into your casserole!
4. Mix Up the Egg Filling:
In a large bowl, combine the eggs, milk, sour cream, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika (if you’re using it). Whisk everything together until it’s well mixed and bubbly.
5. Pour the Egg Mixture:
Carefully pour the egg mixture over the layers in the baking dish, ensuring it spreads out evenly to cover everything.
6. Finish with Cheese:
Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top for a deliciously cheesy crust.
7. Bake It Up:
Slide your baking dish into the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 55 minutes. Look for the eggs to be set in the center and the top to be golden and bubbly.
8. Let It Rest:
When your casserole is done baking, take it out of the oven and allow it to rest for 5 to 10 minutes. This helps everything settle and makes slicing easier.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with the chopped fresh parsley if you like, and serve warm. Enjoy your cheesy, comforting hashbrown egg casserole!
This casserole is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy dinner. It’s filling, cheesy, and makes for great leftovers too!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar is a favorite, you can use other cheeses like Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even a blend of your favorites. Just remember that different cheeses can alter the flavor profile, so choose according to your taste!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them up in the microwave or oven until heated through. You might add a little splash of milk to help keep it moist!
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the entire casserole the night before and store it covered in the refrigerator. Just bake it the next morning, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
What Can I Serve with This Casserole?
This dish goes well with fresh fruit, a side salad, or even toast. For a complete brunch, add some coffee or juice for a delightful meal!
