Egg casserole with hash browns is a perfect dish for breakfast or brunch. It’s easy to make, customizable with your favorite ingredients, and ideal for feeding a crowd. This casserole combines fluffy eggs, crispy hash browns, and melty cheese into a comforting and satisfying meal. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or looking for a quick and hearty breakfast, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients
- 1 pound breakfast sausage or bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (30-ounce) bag frozen hash brown potatoes, thawed
- 12 large eggs
- 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
- Cook the Sausage or Bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage or bacon until browned and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside, leaving a small amount of fat in the skillet.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion, red bell pepper, green bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Prepare the Hash Browns: Spread the thawed hash browns evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Prepare the Egg Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika (if using). Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and mozzarella cheese.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked sausage or bacon and sautéed vegetables to the egg mixture. Mix until well combined.
- Assemble the Casserole: Pour the egg mixture over the hash browns in the baking dish. Spread it out evenly and smooth the top.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the casserole is set and the top is golden brown. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean.
- Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy this hearty and delicious dish with a side of fresh fruit or toast!
FAQs
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to a day in advance. Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, remove the cover and bake as directed.
Q: Can I use different types of cheese? A: Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite cheeses such as Swiss, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack for a bit of a kick. Mixing different cheeses can also add a unique flavor to the casserole.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or reheat the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Q: Can I freeze egg casserole with hash browns? A: Yes, you can freeze the casserole. Assemble the casserole but do not bake it. Cover tightly with aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
Q: What can I substitute for breakfast sausage? A: If you prefer not to use breakfast sausage, you can substitute it with cooked bacon, ham, or even a plant-based sausage alternative. You can also omit the meat entirely for a vegetarian version.
Q: Can I add other vegetables to the casserole? A: Yes, this recipe is very versatile. You can add vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, tomatoes, or broccoli to the egg mixture for added flavor and nutrition.
Q: Can I make this recipe dairy-free? A: Yes, you can make a dairy-free version by using a plant-based milk and dairy-free cheese. Ensure that any meat substitutes used are also dairy-free.
This egg casserole with hash browns is a delicious and comforting dish that’s perfect for any meal. Its versatility and ease of preparation make it a great addition to your recipe collection. Enjoy!