Name: Hash Brown Egg Casserole
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 precooked frozen hash brown patties (thawing is not necessary); 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese; 1 ½ cups diced leftover ham (about ¾ pound); 2 scallions, diced; 9 large eggs; 1 cup whole milk; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon dry ground mustard (optional but recommended); ¼ teaspoon garlic powder

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Looking for a hearty, crowd-pleasing dish that’s as versatile as it is delicious? Look no further than this Hash Brown Egg Casserole! Whether you’re hosting a brunch, preparing a quick weeknight dinner, or planning a make-ahead breakfast, this recipe will become your go-to.

It’s simple, satisfying, and packed with flavor — the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table.

Using frozen hash brown patties as the base, this casserole is easy to whip up and requires minimal prep time. Plus, it’s endlessly customizable, making it perfect for any occasion or dietary preference. Let’s dive into how you can make this delicious dish in just under an hour!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick & Easy: With just 5 minutes of prep time, this recipe is perfect for busy mornings or when you’re short on time.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Assemble it the night before and bake it fresh in the morning for a stress-free start to your day.
Versatile: Great for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner. You can also customize it with your favorite ingredients.
Crowd-Pleasing: With layers of cheesy goodness, savory ham, and crispy hash browns, this dish is sure to be a hit with family and friends.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this tasty casserole:

8 frozen hash brown patties (no need to thaw)
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
1 ½ cups diced leftover ham (about ¾ pound)
2 scallions, diced
9 large eggs
1 cup whole milk
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon dry ground mustard (optional but recommended for extra flavor)
¼ teaspoon garlic powder

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. Lay the frozen hash brown patties in a single layer at the bottom of the dish.

2. Layer the Ingredients

Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses evenly over the hash browns. Next, add the diced ham and scallions, spreading them out for even coverage.

3. Make the Egg Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, dry mustard (if using), and garlic powder. This savory custard will bind all the ingredients together.

4. Assemble the Casserole

Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layered ingredients in the baking dish. Make sure it seeps into all the nooks and crannies for a cohesive casserole.

5. Bake

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean.

6. Cool and Serve

Allow the casserole to cool for 5–10 minutes before slicing into portions. Serve warm and enjoy!

Customization Ideas

One of the best things about this Hash Brown Egg Casserole is how adaptable it is. Here are some ways to make it your own:

Swap Out the Potatoes

Use Tater Tots instead of hash brown patties for a fun twist. Just add an extra 5–10 minutes to the baking time.
If you prefer fresh potatoes, shred your own or use refrigerated hash browns. Keep in mind that these will need to be pre-cooked before assembling the casserole.

Change Up the Protein

Replace the ham with cooked crumbled sausage or crispy bacon.
For a vegetarian option, skip the meat entirely and add sautéed vegetables like onions, bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms.

Experiment with Cheese

Try Pepper Jack cheese for a spicy kick.
Use Swiss or Gouda for a milder, nutty flavor.
Mix and match your favorite cheeses to create your ideal blend.

Pro Tips for Success

Don’t thaw the hash browns: Using them straight from frozen helps them hold their shape during baking.
Use leftover ham: This recipe is an excellent way to repurpose holiday leftovers like Christmas or Easter ham.
Make it ahead: Assemble everything the night before, cover tightly with foil, and refrigerate. In the morning, bake as directed.
Check doneness: A knife inserted in the center should come out clean when it’s fully cooked.

Nutrition Information

Here’s a quick breakdown of what you’re getting in each serving:

Calories: 259 kcal
Protein: 23g
Carbohydrates: 4g
Fat: 17g
Sodium: 660mg

(Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary depending on specific ingredients used.)

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes! Once baked, let it cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake at 350°F until warmed through.

How long does it last in the fridge?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! If you’re feeding a larger crowd, simply double the ingredients and use two baking dishes.

Final Thoughts

This Hash Brown Egg Casserole is everything you want in a comfort food: easy to prepare, endlessly customizable, and downright delicious. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, brunch, or dinner, it’s sure to be a hit with everyone at the table. So grab your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a warm, cheesy slice of heaven!

Have you tried this recipe? Let me know in the comments below how you customized it — I’d love to hear your creative twists!