A Hash Brown Egg Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner. This easy and satisfying dish combines the crispy goodness of hash browns with the creamy texture of eggs, cheese, and savory seasonings. It’s a one-pan wonder that’s hearty, flavorful, and sure to please a crowd. Whether you’re hosting a brunch gathering or simply want a filling meal to kickstart your day, this casserole is versatile, customizable, and incredibly easy to make.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple Ingredients: With basic ingredients that you likely already have on hand, this casserole is quick to prepare and doesn’t require fancy ingredients.
One-Pan Meal: The casserole comes together in a single baking dish, making clean-up a breeze after the meal.
Customizable: Feel free to mix in vegetables, meats, or extra spices to suit your taste.
Hearty and Filling: This casserole is rich in protein, fiber, and flavor, making it a satisfying option for breakfast or dinner.
Perfect for Meal Prep: Make it ahead of time and store leftovers in the fridge for easy meals all week long.

Ingredients

Frozen hash browns
Eggs
Shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
Milk
Salt and pepper
Optional add-ins: diced onions, bell peppers, cooked sausage or bacon, spinach, or mushrooms

Variations

Meat Lover’s Casserole: Add cooked bacon, sausage, or ham to the casserole for a meaty version.
Vegetarian Option: Skip the meat and add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for a veggie-packed dish.
Cheese Variations: Try different types of cheese like Monterey Jack, Gouda, or feta for varied flavor profiles.
Spicy: Add a bit of diced jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Herb Infusion: Add fresh or dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or chives to enhance the flavor.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.

Step 2: Layer the Hash Browns

Evenly spread the frozen hash browns in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Press them down lightly to create an even layer.

Step 3: Prepare the Egg Mixture

In a large bowl, crack the eggs and whisk them together with milk. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If you’re adding optional ingredients like diced onions or vegetables, mix them into the egg mixture.

Step 4: Pour the Egg Mixture Over the Hash Browns

Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layer of hash browns in the baking dish. Make sure it’s evenly distributed so that every part of the casserole is coated with eggs.

Step 5: Add the Cheese

Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. If you want to add any other toppings (like cooked bacon or sausage), now’s the time to sprinkle them on top as well.

Step 6: Bake

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown. You can check for doneness by inserting a knife into the center—if it comes out clean, the casserole is ready.

Step 7: Serve

Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Frozen Hash Browns: Use frozen hash browns for convenience, but make sure to spread them out in an even layer to ensure even cooking.
Sauté Vegetables First: If you’re adding vegetables like onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms, sauté them in a little olive oil before mixing them into the egg mixture to prevent excess moisture.
Let the Casserole Rest: Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes after baking to help it firm up and make it easier to slice.
Double the Recipe: If you’re feeding a large group, simply double the ingredients and bake in two dishes, or use a larger pan.

How to Serve

As a Standalone Meal: Serve the casserole on its own for a satisfying breakfast or brunch.
With a Side Salad: Pair with a light salad to balance the richness of the casserole.
With Toast or Fruit: Enjoy the casserole with some whole-grain toast or fresh fruit for a more rounded meal.
As a Side Dish: Serve alongside other breakfast favorites like pancakes, sausages, or scrambled eggs.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It’s great for meal prep or an easy lunch option.

Freezing

This casserole can be frozen for up to 1-2 months. To freeze, allow the casserole to cool completely, then wrap it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in a freezer-safe container.

Reheating

To reheat, simply place individual servings in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or reheat the whole casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh hash browns instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh hash browns work as well. Just make sure to cook them slightly before using them in the casserole if they’re not pre-cooked.

2. Can I make this casserole without cheese?

Absolutely! You can leave out the cheese for a dairy-free version or use a dairy-free cheese substitute.

3. Can I use a smaller baking dish?

Yes, you can use a smaller baking dish, but you may need to adjust the cooking time depending on the depth of the casserole.

4. Can I add meat to the casserole?

Yes! Cooked bacon, sausage, or ham are great additions to this casserole. Just mix them into the egg mixture before pouring it over the hash browns.

5. Can I use egg whites instead of whole eggs?

Yes, you can use egg whites for a lower-fat version. You may need to add a little extra milk to maintain the texture of the casserole.

6. Can I use pre-cooked hash browns?

Yes, pre-cooked hash browns can be used, but be sure to press them down in the pan to ensure they form a cohesive layer.

7. How do I prevent the casserole from being too soggy?

To prevent sogginess, make sure your hash browns are evenly spread out and not too thick in some areas. You can also lightly press them before baking.

8. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole the night before, refrigerate it, and bake it in the morning.

9. Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, this casserole freezes well. Just make sure it cools completely before wrapping and storing it in the freezer.

10. Can I add other vegetables to the casserole?

Yes, feel free to add any vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or tomatoes. Just be sure to sauté them first to remove excess moisture.

Conclusion

Hash Brown Egg Casserole is a versatile, easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a crowd for brunch or looking for a hearty, filling breakfast, this casserole is guaranteed to be a hit. With minimal ingredients and endless customization options, you can adjust the recipe to suit your tastes and enjoy a delicious, comforting meal any time of the day.