Farmer’s Casserole is the perfect all-in-one breakfast or brunch dish that’s hearty, flavorful, and easy to prepare. Combining classic breakfast staples like hash browns, cheese, ham, and eggs, this dish is sure to please the whole family. It’s also a great make-ahead option for busy mornings or for feeding a crowd. In this step-by-step guide, you’ll learn how to make this simple and satisfying casserole, with tips for variations and optional ingredients.
Ingredients
- 3 cups frozen shredded hash browns, thawed
- 3/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup diced cooked ham (you can also substitute cooked bacon or sausage)
- 1/4 cup sliced green onions
- 4 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk (or use half-and-half for a richer taste)
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder, paprika for garnish, or other seasonings you prefer
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or a little butter to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Hash Brown Layer
Spread the thawed hash browns evenly across the bottom of the greased baking dish. Make sure the layer is uniform to ensure even cooking.
Step 3: Add Cheese and Ham
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the layer of hash browns. Next, evenly distribute the diced cooked ham (or bacon/sausage) on top of the cheese. For added flavor, sprinkle the sliced green onions over the cheese and ham mixture.
Step 4: Mix the Egg Mixture
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk (or half-and-half), salt, and pepper. For a little extra flavor, you can also add 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder or paprika. Continue whisking until everything is well combined.
Step 5: Pour the Egg Mixture
Carefully pour the egg mixture over the hash browns, cheese, ham, and onions. The egg mixture should cover the ingredients evenly, ensuring a cohesive casserole.
Step 6: Bake the Casserole
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the eggs are fully set and the top is golden brown. You can test the center by inserting a knife; if it comes out clean, the casserole is ready.
Step 7: Let It Rest
Once the casserole is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 5-10 minutes. This will make it easier to cut into squares for serving.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!
Cut the casserole into squares and serve warm. It pairs perfectly with a fresh fruit salad, toast, or a side of sautéed vegetables for a complete breakfast.
Cooking Notes:
- Thawing Hash Browns: If you’re short on time, you can microwave the frozen hash browns in short bursts until thawed, or place them in a colander and run cold water over them.
- Crispier Texture: For a crispier bottom layer, pre-bake the hash browns for about 10 minutes at 350°F before adding the other ingredients.
- Make It Ahead: This casserole can be assembled the night before and refrigerated. In the morning, just pop it in the oven for a freshly baked breakfast.
Variations:
1. Vegetarian Version
To make this casserole vegetarian, simply omit the ham, bacon, or sausage and add more vegetables. Some great options include bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini.
2. Gluten-Free Option
This dish is naturally gluten-free as long as you double-check that your hash browns and other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
3. Spicy Twist
If you enjoy a little heat, add chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the egg mixture. You can also use a spicy sausage for an extra kick.
4. Cheesy Upgrade
For a richer, cheesier casserole, try adding a mix of cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Gouda in addition to the cheddar. This will give you a super cheesy, indulgent breakfast.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I substitute the ham with something else?
A: Absolutely! Cooked bacon or sausage works just as well in this casserole. For a vegetarian option, you can use sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach instead of meat.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can use the microwave or cover the casserole with foil and warm it in a 350°F oven until heated through.
Q: Can I freeze Farmer’s Casserole?
A: Yes! This casserole freezes well. Simply bake it as directed, allow it to cool completely, and then cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil before freezing. It will keep in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat it in the oven at 350°F.
Q: How can I make this casserole richer?
A: For a richer and creamier texture, use half-and-half instead of milk, and add a little extra cheese. You could also incorporate a small amount of cream cheese for an ultra-creamy result.
This Farmer’s Casserole is a fantastic dish to serve for breakfast or brunch, whether you’re feeding your family on a busy morning or hosting a group. It’s versatile, easy to customize, and can even be prepared ahead of time for convenience. With layers of hash browns, savory ham, melted cheese, and fluffy eggs, this casserole is sure to become a favorite in your household.
Try this recipe the next time you’re in need of a satisfying breakfast, and don’t hesitate to experiment with different fillings and flavors to make it your own. Happy cooking!
