This Egg and Hashbrown Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining crispy hashbrowns, savory eggs, and melted cheese into a hearty and satisfying dish. Whether you’re planning a family breakfast, holiday brunch, or a cozy weekend meal, this casserole is easy to make, filling, and bursting with flavor. It’s a crowd-pleaser that can be prepared ahead of time, making it a great option for busy mornings. With a golden crust and tender interior, this casserole will quickly become a favorite at your table.
Ingredients:
- 1 (30 oz) package frozen hashbrowns, thawed
- 12 large eggs
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese)
- 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced (optional)
- 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled breakfast sausage or bacon (optional for extra flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons butter (for greasing the casserole dish)
Instructions:
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with butter or cooking spray.
- Prepare the Hashbrowns: Spread the thawed hashbrowns evenly in the bottom of the prepared casserole dish. Press them down gently to form a solid layer.
- Saute Vegetables (Optional): In a medium skillet over medium heat, sauté the diced onion and bell pepper until softened (about 5 minutes). Add them on top of the hashbrowns, distributing them evenly.
- Prepare the Egg Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. If you’re using sausage or bacon, fold it into the egg mixture.
- Assemble the Casserole: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the hashbrowns and vegetables in the casserole dish. Make sure the egg mixture is spread out evenly across the top.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top of the egg mixture, covering the casserole evenly.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the eggs are fully set, the top is golden brown, and the casserole is bubbling.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving. This casserole pairs perfectly with a side of fresh fruit or a light salad.
Tips:
- Make-Ahead: Prepare the casserole the night before and refrigerate it overnight. Just bake it in the morning for a quick and easy breakfast.
- Cheese Variations: Swap out the cheddar cheese for any other cheese you prefer, such as Monterey Jack, Swiss, or mozzarella, for different flavor profiles.
- Customize with Veggies: Feel free to add mushrooms, spinach, or any other veggies you like to the casserole for extra color and nutrition.
This Egg and Hashbrown Casserole is a perfect balance of rich, comforting flavors and can be easily customized to suit your taste. Enjoy it with your loved ones, and savor every bite!