Cheesy bacon potato breakfast casserole

Transform your mornings into a celebration with the Cheesy Bacon Potato Breakfast Casserole – a symphony of savory flavors and comforting textures. This delightful casserole brings together the heartiness of potatoes, the richness of cheese, and the smokiness of bacon in a single, oven-baked masterpiece. Join us on a culinary journey as we explore the art of crafting this indulgent breakfast casserole that’s perfect for family gatherings, brunches, or any occasion where you want to start your day with a delicious bang.

Ingredients:

For the Casserole Base:

• 6 cups frozen hash brown potatoes, thawed
• 1 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup diced green onions
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

For the Egg Mixture:

• 8 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For Topping:

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions:

1. Preheat and Prepare:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish for easy removal of the casserole.
2. Layer the Casserole Base:
   • Spread the thawed hash brown potatoes evenly in the prepared baking dish.
   • Sprinkle cooked and crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, and diced green onions over the potatoes.
3. Whisk Together the Egg Mixture:
   • In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, whole milk, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
4. Pour Egg Mixture Over Casserole:
   • Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layered ingredients in the baking dish. Ensure that the liquid mixture seeps into all the nooks and crannies of the casserole.
5. Top with Mozzarella Cheese:
   • Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the casserole, creating a gooey, melted layer during baking.
6. Bake to Golden Perfection:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes or until the casserole is set, the edges are golden brown, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Garnish and Rest:
   • Once out of the oven, let the casserole rest for a few minutes before garnishing with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
8. Slice and Serve:
   • Slice into squares or rectangles, serve warm, and savor the delicious combination of cheesy, bacon-infused potatoes.

Cook Notes:

• Hash Brown Consistency: Ensure the hash browns are thawed and patted dry to prevent excess moisture in the casserole.
• Bacon Texture: For added texture, cook the bacon until it’s crispy before crumbling it over the casserole.
• Egg Mixture Evenness: Whisk the egg mixture thoroughly to ensure an even distribution of flavors throughout the casserole.
• Customizing Cheese Blend: Experiment with different cheese blends or add a touch of your favorite cheese to the mix for a personalized touch.

Variations:

Veggie Lover’s Dream:

• Incorporate sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, and spinach for a veggie-packed casserole.

Spicy Kick:

• Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the egg mixture for a spicy twist.

Herb-infused Elegance:

• Mix fresh herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or chives into the egg mixture for an herb-infused flavor profile.

Keto Version:

• Substitute frozen hash brown potatoes with cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative.
• Replace whole milk with unsweetened almond milk or another low-carb milk substitute.
• Opt for keto-friendly cheese options and ensure the bacon is free of added sugars.

Low-Carb Version:

• Choose a low-carb hash brown substitute or use a combination of zucchini and cauliflower for the base.
• Use low-carb milk alternatives and select low-carb cheeses for both the casserole and topping.
• Customize the casserole with low-carb veggies like cherry tomatoes or bell peppers.

The Cheesy Bacon Potato Breakfast Casserole is a testament to the magic that happens when simple ingredients come together in perfect harmony. Whether you enjoy the classic version or embark on creative variations, this casserole promises to make your mornings memorable. So, gather your loved ones, indulge in the rich flavors of cheesy potatoes and bacon, and savor the joy of a breakfast that’s both comforting and utterly delicious!