Breakfast Casserole With Hash Browns

Name: Breakfast Casserole With Hash Browns
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb frozen hash browns; 6 eggs; 1 cup milk; 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice); 1 green bell pepper, diced; 1 small onion, chopped; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Cooking spray or butter for greasing the baking dish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food Love

I absolutely love starting my day with this Breakfast Casserole With Hash Browns. It's a hearty and satisfying dish that brings together crispy hash browns, cheesy goodness, and a medley of vegetables. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it also makes for a fantastic brunch option when hosting friends or family. The combination of flavors and textures will fill your home with a delightful aroma, making mornings feel more special. Trust me, once you try this casserole, it will become a breakfast staple in your household.

Created by

Keira Thompson

Last updated on 2026-02-02T01:45:35.967Z

When I first attempted this Breakfast Casserole, I wasn't sure if the flavors would meld together smoothly. To my delight, the hash browns added the perfect crunch, while the eggs and cheese brought a creamy, rich texture that was irresistible. The addition of green peppers and onions offered just the right balance of freshness and flavor.

After experimenting with different seasonings, I found that a sprinkle of garlic powder and a hint of paprika really elevated the dish. It’s the little touches that make this recipe special, turning traditional breakfast into something extraordinary. I can’t wait for you to try it!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Hearty and filling, perfect for starting your day right
Customizable with your favorite veggies and cheeses
Makes excellent leftovers for quick breakfasts throughout the week

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh vegetables in your Breakfast Casserole With Hash Browns can significantly enhance the flavor and texture of the dish. Fresh bell peppers and onions provide a crunch that frozen options may lack. It’s crucial to chop them finely to ensure they cook evenly and infuse their taste throughout the casserole. I personally recommend using a mix of colorful bell peppers for a vibrant presentation and an extra layer of flavor.

Don’t hesitate to experiment with seasonal vegetables. Spinach or mushrooms can add a different flavor profile, while tomatoes can bring a juicy burst to every bite. Just remember to sauté any high-water content veggies beforehand to prevent excess moisture, which can lead to a soggy casserole.

Adapting the Cheese Blend

The type of cheese you choose for your casserole can completely alter the taste experience. While cheddar is a classic choice, mixing in mozzarella or pepper jack can create a delightful surprise. Use a blend of cheeses, such as sharp cheddar for tanginess and cream cheese for creaminess, to amp up the dish’s richness. Always make sure to shred your cheese yourself for better melting qualities; pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-clumping agents that prevent an even melt.

If you're looking to reduce calories or fat, consider using a lower-fat cheese or a dairy-free alternative. Nutritional yeast is a great substitute that can offer a cheesy flavor without the added fat. Feel free to experiment with different cheese combinations until you find your perfect blend!

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

One of the best features of this Breakfast Casserole is its make-ahead potential. You can assemble everything the night before and leave it in the refrigerator, allowing the flavors to meld. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and when you're ready to bake it, you may need to add an additional 10-15 minutes to the cooking time to account for the chill from the fridge.

For storage, keep any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat gently in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Freezing is also an option; portion out the casserole into individual servings and freeze for up to three months. Just ensure to wrap each portion well to prevent freezer burn.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious breakfast casserole:

Ingredients

1 lb frozen hash browns
6 eggs
1 cup milk
2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
1 green bell pepper, diced
1 small onion, chopped
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking spray or butter for greasing the baking dish

Ensure everything is properly prepared and ready to mix for the casserole.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your breakfast casserole:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.

Prepare the Hash Browns

Spread the frozen hash browns evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish.

Mix the Egg Mixture

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk. Stir in the cheese, diced bell pepper, onion, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Combine and Bake

Pour the egg mixture over the hash browns, ensuring it is evenly distributed. Bake for 45 minutes or until the top is golden and the eggs are set.

Cool and Serve

Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy!

This hearty casserole is best served fresh, but can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize this dish with your choice of meats or additional spices. A sprinkle of fresh herbs before serving can also enhance the flavor!

Serving Suggestions

This casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh fruit salad or a side of crispy bacon for a full breakfast experience. You can also serve it with a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce for those who love a bit of heat. Toasted bread or flaky biscuits can complement the dish wonderfully, adding more heartiness to your meal.

For a more Mediterranean twist, consider topping the casserole with feta cheese and olives before serving. You could also garnish with fresh herbs such as parsley or chives to add a pop of color and freshness. Providing a variety of toppings allows guests to customize their servings, making it an interactive brunch experience.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find that your casserole is soggy after baking, it’s likely that the moisture from your vegetables was not adequately managed. To remedy this, make sure to pre-cook any moist veggies like spinach or zucchini. You can also place your assembled casserole in the fridge for a few hours before baking, which helps drain excess moisture as it sits.

On the flip side, if the top of your casserole isn’t browning as much as you'd like, increase the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) for the final 10 minutes of baking. Just keep an eye on it to avoid burning. Using a metal baking pan instead of a glass one can also help achieve a crispier top due to better heat conduction.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole the night before and refrigerate it. Just bake it in the morning, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

→ What type of cheese works best?

Cheddar is a classic choice, but feel free to experiment with mozzarella, pepper jack, or a blend of your favorites!

→ Can I use fresh hash browns instead of frozen?

Sure! Just make sure to squeeze out any excess moisture from fresh hash browns to prevent your casserole from becoming soggy.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat slices in the microwave or in the oven.