Hash Brown Egg Casserole

This Hash Brown Egg Casserole is an easy, hearty breakfast dish that brings together crispy hash browns, savory ham, and cheesy goodness in every bite. It’s a great make-ahead option for brunch, holidays, or even meal prep. The fluffy eggs and flavorful ingredients bake to golden perfection, creating a comforting dish that’s sure to please a crowd.

Ingredients:

• 8 precooked 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
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray or butter to prevent sticking.

2. Layer the Ingredients:

• Arrange the frozen hash brown patties in a single layer at the bottom of the dish. Evenly sprinkle the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, diced ham, and scallions over the hash browns.

3. Prepare the Egg Mixture:

• In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, dry mustard, and garlic powder until well combined.

4. Combine and Bake:

• Pour the egg mixture evenly over the hash brown and ham layers. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 20 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean.

5. Serve:

• Let the casserole cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing into portions and serving. It pairs perfectly with a fresh fruit salad or a side of toast.

Tips & Variations:

• Make It Ahead: Assemble the casserole the night before and store it in the fridge, then pop it in the oven in the morning for a stress-free breakfast.
• Add Veggies: You can easily boost the nutrition by adding sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the mix.
• Swap the Meat: If you don’t have leftover ham, try using cooked sausage, bacon, or even turkey for a twist.
• Cheese Options: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack for a spicy kick or Swiss for a milder flavor.
• Gluten-Free: Ensure your hash browns and seasonings are gluten-free for a naturally gluten-free breakfast option.

This Hash Brown Egg Casserole is a delicious and versatile breakfast that’s sure to become a family favorite. With its crispy hash brown base and cheesy, eggy goodness, it’s perfect for serving a crowd or enjoying leftovers throughout the week.