Farmhouse Comfort: Crafting the Ultimate Farmers Casserole
Dive into the heart of rustic comfort with our recipe for Farmers Casserole—a hearty dish that pays homage to the wholesome goodness of farmhouse cooking. Imagine layers of eggs, cheese, potatoes, and savory sausage, baked to golden perfection. This casserole isn’t just a meal; it’s a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. Join us on a culinary journey as we guide you through the art of creating this farmhouse favorite, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or any occasion when you crave a warm, satisfying dish.
Ingredients
For the Casserole:
- 6 cups frozen shredded hash browns, thawed
- 1 1/2 cups cooked sausage, crumbled
- 1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup green onions, finely chopped
- 12 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For Topping:
- 1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup green onions, finely chopped
Instructions
1. Prepare the Casserole
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Layer Hash Browns: Spread the thawed hash browns evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Add Sausage: Sprinkle the cooked, crumbled sausage over the hash browns.
- Sprinkle Cheese and Green Onions: Add 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese and 1/2 cup of finely chopped green onions over the sausage layer.
2. Mix and Pour Egg Mixture
- Whisk Eggs: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Pour Over Layers: Pour the egg mixture over the hash brown, sausage, cheese, and green onion layers in the baking dish.
- Press Down: Gently press down on the ingredients to ensure they are fully submerged in the egg mixture.
3. Add Topping
- Sprinkle Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
- Add Green Onions: Finish by sprinkling the remaining 1/2 cup of finely chopped green onions.
4. Bake to Perfection
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes or until the casserole is set and the top is golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm.
Cook Notes
- Customize Sausage: Use your preferred type of sausage—pork, turkey, or even a plant-based alternative for a vegetarian twist.
- Fresh vs. Frozen Hash Browns: If using fresh hash browns, ensure they are thoroughly drained of excess moisture to prevent a watery casserole.
- Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare the casserole the night before, refrigerate overnight, and bake in the morning for a stress-free breakfast.
Variations
Veggie Delight:
Add a layer of sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, and spinach for a veggie-packed version.
Southwest Twist:
Incorporate diced green chilies, salsa, and a touch of cumin for a Southwestern-inspired flavor profile.
Ham and Cheese Extravaganza:
Swap the sausage for diced ham and experiment with different cheeses like Swiss or Monterey Jack.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions
Cauliflower Comfort:
Replace hash browns with grated cauliflower for a low-carb alternative.
Almond Milk Adaptation:
Use unsweetened almond milk instead of whole milk for a lower-carb variation.
Turkey Triumph:
Opt for turkey sausage to reduce fat content and create a leaner version.
In conclusion, Farmers Casserole isn’t just a dish; it’s a celebration of farmhouse flavors, a tribute to hearty meals, and a reminder of the comfort found in simple ingredients. Imagine savoring each forkful—the crispy hash browns, the savory sausage, and the creamy, cheesy goodness.
May your kitchen be filled with the aroma of this casserole baking and the anticipation of a meal that captures the essence of farmhouse comfort. Share this Farmers Casserole with family and friends, make it a staple in your brunch repertoire, or indulge in it as a savory breakfast treat.
Here’s to the joy of crafting farmhouse comfort, the delight of savoring each bite, and the satisfaction found in Farmers Casserole. So, relish in the flavors, appreciate the simplicity, and enjoy a dish that brings the warmth of the farmhouse to your table!
