Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole is a delicious and hearty dish that combines breakfast favorites into one easy meal. It’s perfect for a family gathering, brunch, or even a cozy weekend breakfast. This casserole is loaded with flavors from crispy bacon, cheese, and the comforting texture of hash browns.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is a fantastic choice for those who want a filling breakfast without much hassle. You can prepare it ahead of time, making your mornings easier. Plus, it’s flexible! You can switch up the ingredients based on your preferences, making it suitable for everyone at the table.
How to Make Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole
Making a Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole is simple. Here’s how you do it:
Ingredients:
- 16 ounces Diced bacon (You can also use ham, sausage, or veggies for variation.)
- 1 medium Onion, diced
- 8 large Eggs
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1 teaspoon Black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Hot sauce (Optional)
- 4 cups Frozen hash browns, thawed
- 8 ounces Shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 6 ounces Shredded Swiss or Gruyere cheese
- 16 ounces Small curd cottage cheese (Either 4% or 1% works well)
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9 x 13 inch baking dish and set aside.
- In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Add the diced onions and cook until translucent. Remove from heat and drain the mixture on a paper towel to remove excess grease.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, salt, black pepper, and if using, the hot sauce.
- Add the thawed hash browns, shredded cheddar cheese, shredded Swiss or Gruyere cheese, cooked bacon, and onions to the egg mixture.
- Stir everything together until the mixture is well combined.
- Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Bake for 35 to 45 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is lightly golden.
- Let the casserole rest for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing and serving. For a fresh finish, sprinkle chopped fresh chives on top, if desired.
How to Serve Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole
Serve the Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole warm, straight from the oven. You can slice it into squares and place it on plates. It pairs well with a side of fresh fruit or a light salad. Feel free to add extra toppings, such as sour cream or hot sauce, if you like!
How to Store Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole
After serving, let any leftovers cool completely. Store the casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 to 4 days. Heating it up in the oven or microwave makes it easy to enjoy again.
Tips to Make Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole
- For a lighter version, use turkey bacon or substitute some of the cheese with more vegetables.
- You can prep the casserole the night before. Just cover it and place it in the fridge. Bake it in the morning for a hot breakfast.
- Don’t skip letting it rest after baking! This helps it set and makes it easier to slice.
Variation
Feel free to swap out the proteins or cheeses! You can use sausage instead of bacon, or add veggies like bell peppers or spinach for an extra nutritious boost. The casserole is very flexible, so customize it to your taste!
FAQs
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare it the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it in the morning.
What can I use instead of bacon?
You can use ham, sausage, or even skip the meat altogether and add more vegetables.
How long does it take to bake?
It typically takes 35 to 45 minutes to bake, or until the center is set and the top is golden brown.
With these simple steps, you can create a delicious Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole that’s sure to be a hit at your breakfast table! Enjoy!
Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 16 ounces Diced bacon Can substitute with ham, sausage, or veggies.
- 1 medium Onion, diced
- 8 large Eggs
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1 teaspoon Black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Hot sauce (Optional)
- 4 cups Frozen hash browns, thawed
- 8 ounces Shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 6 ounces Shredded Swiss or Gruyere cheese
- 16 ounces Small curd cottage cheese Either 4% or 1% works well.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9 x 13 inch baking dish and set aside.
- In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Add the diced onions and cook until translucent. Remove from heat and drain the mixture on a paper towel to remove excess grease.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, salt, black pepper, and if using, the hot sauce.
- Add the thawed hash browns, shredded cheddar cheese, shredded Swiss or Gruyere cheese, cooked bacon, and onions to the egg mixture.
- Stir everything together until the mixture is well combined.
Baking
- Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Bake for 35 to 45 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is lightly golden.
- Let the casserole rest for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
- For a fresh finish, sprinkle chopped fresh chives on top, if desired.
