Description
A hearty, comforting breakfast bake made with eggs, cheese, potatoes, and your choice of ham, sausage, or bacon. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd, meal prepping for busy mornings, or serving at brunch gatherings.
Introduction
This Farmers Casserole is a classic American-style breakfast dish loved for its simplicity and flexibility. Frozen hash browns create the base, eggs and milk add richness, and melted cheese ties everything together. You can customize it with your preferred protein or vegetables, making it easy to adapt to your taste.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Easy to assemble and bake
• Perfect for meal prep and reheats well
• Totally customizable—use any protein or veggies you like
• Great for holidays, brunches, or big family breakfasts
• Uses simple ingredients you likely already have
Ingredients
• 3 cups frozen shredded hash brown potatoes (thawed)
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (or a cheese blend)
• 1 cup cooked ham, diced (or cooked crumbled sausage or bacon)
• ¼ cup sliced green onions (or diced yellow onion)
• 1 (12 oz) can evaporated milk, or 1½ cups whole milk or cream
• 4 large eggs
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon paprika or dried mustard (optional)
• Non-stick cooking spray or butter for greasing
Instructions
Prepare the Dish
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or a 3-quart casserole dish.
Layer Base Ingredients
Spread the thawed hash browns evenly in the baking dish.
Sprinkle the cheese, ham or sausage, and green onions over the potatoes.
Mix Egg Mixture
In a medium bowl, whisk together the evaporated milk, eggs, salt, pepper, and optional seasonings.
Combine and Bake
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layered ingredients.
Bake uncovered for 45–55 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is lightly golden.
Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Make-Ahead Option
Assemble the casserole without baking it up to 24 hours in advance. Cover tightly and refrigerate.
Before baking, let it sit at room temperature for 20–30 minutes.
Bake as directed, adding 5–10 extra minutes if needed.
Variations
• Vegetarian: Replace the meat with sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach.
• Extra veggies: Add thawed corn, roasted red peppers, or diced tomatoes.
• Cheese variations: Monterey Jack, Colby, or pepper jack for a spicy twist.
• Potato alternatives: Use frozen diced potatoes or pre-cooked russet potatoes.
• Extra creaminess: Mix ½ cup sour cream into the egg mixture.
Tips for Best Results
• Make sure hash browns are fully thawed to avoid excess moisture.
• Let the casserole rest before cutting so it slices cleanly.
• For a browned top, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end—watch closely.
• For fluffier texture, beat the eggs for an extra 30 seconds.
Storage Tips
• Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for 3–4 days.
• Reheat slices in the microwave or oven at 300°F (150°C) until warmed.
• Freeze individual portions for up to 2 months; thaw overnight before reheating.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm with fresh fruit, avocado slices, toast, or a simple green salad. Great for brunch, holiday breakfasts, or weekend meal prep.
Nutrition (Per Serving – Approx. 8 servings)
Calories: ~260
Protein: ~17g
Carbohydrates: ~17g
Fat: ~14g
Fiber: ~1g
Sodium: ~550mg
(Note: Values vary depending on cheese and meat used.)
Conclusion
This Farmers Casserole is a reliable, flavorful, and versatile breakfast bake that works for any occasion. With easy prep, customizable ingredients, and great flavor, it’s a recipe you’ll return to again and again.