Hash Brown Egg Casserole Recipe

Get ready to dive into a comfort dish like no other—our beloved Hash Brown Egg Casserole! Imagine biting into layers of crispy hash browns topped with a melty blend of cheeses, diced ham, and a hint of scallion. It’s a delightful feast that’s not only satisfying but perfect for breakfast or brunch gatherings.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s dive into the ingredients that make this Hash Brown Egg Casserole irresistible. Each component brings its own unique flair—be it taste, texture, or color—to the dish. These are staple ingredients that transform this casserole into a crowd favorite.

• Frozen Hash Brown Patties: These create the crispy base. No need to thaw; just pop them in and let the oven work its magic.
• Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Adds a rich, cheesy flavor that melds beautifully with the eggs.
• Shredded Monterey Jack Cheese: Offers a creamy, mild taste that complements the sharpness of the cheddar.
• Diced Ham: Utilizes leftover ham to add hearty, savory bites throughout the casserole.
• Scallions: These add a pop of color and a mild oniony zing that balances the richness of the cheese and ham.

Variations

The beauty of a Hash Brown Egg Casserole is its versatility. Feel free to tweak this dish according to your culinary mood swings, dietary needs, or just whatever’s at hand in your fridge.

• Alternative Potatoes: Trade hash browns for Tater Tots for extra crispiness or use shredded potatoes if you prefer a softer texture.
• Protein Swap: Replace ham with bacon or sausage, or go vegetarian with hearty mushrooms and bell peppers.
• Cheese Choices: Mix it up with spicy Pepper Jack for a kick or keep it creamy with mozzarella.

How to Make Hash Brown Egg Casserole

Step 1: Lay the Foundation

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. Arrange those frozen hash brown patties in a single layer in your dish—they’ll form the crunchy, comforting base of our casserole.

Step 2: Add Layers of Flavor

Evenly distribute the shredded sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack cheese, diced ham, and scallions over the hash browns. This layer becomes a bounty of flavors that meld perfectly once baked.

Step 3: Prepare the Custard

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, dry mustard, and garlic powder. This simple yet flavorful custard binds everything together, creating a rich, savory decoction that will puff up beautifully in the oven.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Pour the custard over the prepared hash brown and cheese mixture. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for another 20 minutes until the edges are golden brown, and a knife comes out clean when inserted.

How to Serve Hash Brown Egg Casserole

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives can bring a splash of color and a hint of freshness that lightens the dish. A dash of hot sauce also pairs perfectly with the savory, cheesy goodness.

Side Dishes

Consider pairing your Hash Brown Egg Casserole with a fresh fruit salad or a side of roasted vegetables. The juicy sweetness of fruit cuts through the richness and offers a refreshing contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve it up in individual ramekins for personalized portions. Or, slice the casserole into small, bite-sized pieces for an easy-to-eat party appetizer.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Hash Brown Egg Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Allow it to cool completely before sealing to maintain its texture.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then a layer of aluminum foil. These can be stored in the freezer for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat your casserole portions in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, or until heated through. If you’re in a hurry, microwaving on medium power will also work but might affect the texture slightly.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

Here’s to hoping this Hash Brown Egg Casserole becomes as cherished in your home as it is in ours. Its simplicity, warmth, and customizable nature make it a staple worth trying. Go on, give it a whirl, and see how it elevates your breakfast or brunch game. Happy cooking!

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