Imagine waking up to a mouthwatering breakfast that's not just delicious, but also ridiculously easy to prepare. This Ham Cheese Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole is about to become your new morning obsession – a perfect blend of crispy hash browns, savory ham, melted cheese, and fluffy eggs that will transform your breakfast routine from bland to grand. Whether you're feeding a hungry family or hosting a weekend brunch, this one-pan wonder is guaranteed to earn you serious culinary bragging rights!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 bag frozen hash browns
- 1 cup diced ham
- 2 cups shredded cheese
- 6 eggs
- 1 cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish thoroughly with butter or non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, thaw the frozen hash browns for about 5 minutes at room temperature to make them easier to work with. Gently break apart any frozen clumps with a fork.
- Spread the hash browns evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish, creating a consistent base layer that covers the entire bottom of the dish.
- Sprinkle the diced ham evenly over the hash brown layer, distributing the meat uniformly to ensure each serving will have ham.
- In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper until well combined and slightly frothy.
- Pour the egg mixture slowly and evenly over the hash browns and ham, ensuring it seeps into the layers and covers most of the ingredients.
- Top the casserole with shredded cheese, covering the entire surface in a generous, even layer.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the eggs are set completely.
- Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving, which allows the dish to set and makes cutting easier.
- Cut into squares and serve hot, optionally garnishing with chopped fresh parsley or green onions for added flavor and color.
Tips
- • For extra flavor, consider using a mix of cheeses like cheddar and monterey jack • Ensure hash browns are slightly thawed to help them cook evenly • Let the casserole rest after baking to help it set and make cutting easier • Can be prepared the night before and refrigerated, then baked in the morning • For a crispy top, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end of cooking • Add diced bell peppers or onions for extra nutrition and flavor • Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 20g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 180mg
