Here’s the full recipe profile for the Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole with all requested sections and the wide line removed:
Introduction
The Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole is a hearty, make-ahead dish that combines shredded potatoes, savory ham, melted cheese, and fluffy eggs into one delicious bake. It’s perfect for family breakfasts, brunch gatherings, or holiday mornings when you want a satisfying, crowd-pleasing meal without standing over the stove. Comforting and versatile, this casserole captures the essence of homemade breakfast in every bite.
Origin
Breakfast casseroles became popular in the mid-20th century in the United States, where busy households needed convenient yet filling meals. Frozen hash browns and canned milk made preparation even easier, allowing home cooks to prepare large family-style breakfasts with minimal effort. Over the years, this casserole has evolved into a brunch staple, often appearing on Easter, Christmas, and Sunday brunch menus.
Cultural Significance
Breakfast casseroles reflect the importance of community meals in American culture. They are often made for gatherings, potlucks, and special mornings when families come together. The combination of eggs, potatoes, ham, and cheese represents not just nourishment but also tradition—bringing comfort and connection across the table. In many homes, this casserole has become a celebratory dish tied to holidays and weekend traditions.
Ingredients Quantity
- 6 cups frozen shredded hash brown potatoes
- 2 cups Monterey Jack cheese, grated
- 2 cups ham, diced
- ½ cup green onions, chopped
- 8 large eggs, beaten
- 2 (12 oz) cans evaporated milk
- ½ teaspoon garlic salt
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Optional Additions
- Bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for added vegetables.
- Swap Monterey Jack for cheddar, Swiss, or a cheese blend.
- Use breakfast sausage, bacon, or turkey sausage instead of ham.
- Add fresh herbs such as parsley, thyme, or chives for extra flavor.
- Top with salsa, sour cream, or hot sauce when serving for a Tex-Mex twist.
Tips for Success
- If baking from chilled, allow extra time—up to 1 hour 30 minutes—to ensure the center is fully set.
- Grease the baking dish well to prevent sticking.
- Cover with foil for the first half of baking if the top browns too quickly.
- Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before slicing; this helps it firm up.
- For a lighter version, substitute half the cheese with reduced-fat cheese or swap evaporated milk for skim evaporated milk.
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Arrange hash browns evenly in the bottom.
- Sprinkle grated cheese, diced ham, and chopped green onions over the potatoes.
- In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, evaporated milk, garlic salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Pour egg mixture evenly over ingredients in the baking dish.
- Cover and refrigerate overnight if desired, or bake immediately.
- If chilled, bake uncovered for about 1 hour 30 minutes, or until center is set. If baking unchilled, reduce time to about 1 hour 15 minutes.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Description
This Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole is warm, cheesy, and loaded with flavor. The potatoes form a hearty base, while the eggs bake up light and fluffy. The ham adds a smoky-salty element, balanced by the creaminess of the melted cheese and the freshness of green onions. Every slice is satisfying, making it the ultimate all-in-one breakfast dish.
Nutritional Information (per serving, about 12 servings)
- Calories: 280
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Protein: 18g
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 160mg
- Sodium: 560mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 3g
Conclusion
Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole is the perfect solution for feeding a crowd with ease. Simple to prepare ahead of time, it delivers comfort and flavor in every bite. Whether you’re hosting brunch or preparing a holiday morning meal, this casserole is a dependable and delicious choice.
Recommendation
Pair with a fresh fruit salad, muffins, or biscuits for a complete breakfast spread. A pot of coffee, tea, or freshly squeezed orange juice makes the perfect accompaniment.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
This casserole can be enjoyed guilt-free when portioned mindfully. Using lean proteins like turkey sausage, reduced-fat cheese, and adding vegetables increases nutrition without sacrificing flavor. The eggs and cheese provide protein and calcium, while the potatoes offer energy-sustaining carbohydrates. By making small adjustments, you can enjoy this comforting dish as both an indulgence and a wholesome meal.
Would you like me to also create a mini muffin-sized version of this casserole for grab-and-go breakfasts, or keep it in the large baking dish style?