Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole – Easy, Cheesy & Perfect for Any Morning

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes rival the irresistible allure of a Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole. Imagine waking up to the smell of crispy golden hash browns, savory ground beef, colorful bell peppers, and the melty goodness of cheddar cheese all baked together into a perfect casserole. It’s a meal that’s not only filling but also incredibly easy to prepare. Whether you’re serving it for a busy weekday breakfast, a weekend brunch, or even a special holiday meal, this hashbrown breakfast casserole is sure to become a family favorite. Let’s dive into what makes this dish so delicious and how you can easily recreate it at home.

The Appeal of Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole

What sets a hashbrown breakfast casserole apart from other breakfast dishes is its versatility. It’s a one-pan wonder that can be customized to suit various tastes and dietary preferences. From the crispy texture of the hashbrowns to the richness of eggs and cheese, there’s something for everyone. You can serve it as-is or add additional ingredients like spinach, mushrooms, or sausage for a twist. The key, however, is the balance of ingredients: hashbrowns, eggs, cheese, and seasonings. These basic components come together to create a flavorful and hearty dish that will keep you satisfied all morning long.

Ingredients You’ll Need for This Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole

This hashbrown breakfast casserole recipe calls for a simple set of ingredients, many of which you might already have in your kitchen. Let’s take a closer look at what you’ll need to create this delicious casserole:

• 20 oz shredded hash browns, thawed: The star of the show, hashbrowns provide the perfect base, offering both texture and flavor.
• 1 lb ground beef, cooked and crumbled: Adding protein and richness, ground beef gives the casserole a hearty, savory bite.
• ¼ cup finely diced onion: Onion adds a sweet and savory undertone to the dish, enhancing the overall flavor.
• ½ red bell pepper and ½ green bell pepper, diced: These vibrant bell peppers contribute a slight crunch and freshness, balancing the richness of the other ingredients.
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided: Cheddar cheese provides that perfect melty goodness on top and throughout the casserole.
• 8 large eggs: Eggs are the binding agent, helping to bring all the ingredients together into a cohesive dish.
• 1 (12 oz) can evaporated milk (or 1⅓ cups regular milk): Evaporated milk adds a creaminess that elevates the casserole.
• ½ tsp Italian seasoning (optional): A pinch of Italian seasoning adds a subtle herby flavor, making the casserole extra savory.
• ½ tsp kosher salt and ¼ tsp black pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing all the flavors together.

Directions for Making the Perfect Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole

This hashbrown breakfast casserole is incredibly easy to make, and you’ll have it ready to bake in no time. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll soon be enjoying a piping-hot dish straight out of the oven.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.

Step 2: Brown the Meat

In a skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until it’s fully browned. Be sure to break it apart as it cooks, creating small crumbles for an even texture. Once browned, drain any excess fat to keep the casserole from becoming greasy.

Step 3: Combine Base Ingredients

In the prepared baking dish, layer the thawed hash browns, cooked beef, finely diced onion, and the red and green bell peppers. Sprinkle 1½ cups of the shredded cheddar cheese on top. Gently mix everything together to ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed.

Step 4: Make the Egg Mixture

In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, evaporated milk, Italian seasoning, kosher salt, and black pepper. Make sure everything is well-blended to create a smooth and creamy mixture.

Step 5: Pour and Top

Pour the egg mixture evenly over the hash brown mixture in the baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese over the top, ensuring an even layer that will melt beautifully during baking.

Step 6: Bake

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake, uncovered, for 55–65 minutes. The casserole is done when the center is set, and the top is golden brown and slightly crispy. To check for doneness, insert a knife into the center; it should come out clean if the casserole is fully cooked.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Once your casserole is done, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing into it. This allows the dish to firm up a bit, making it easier to serve. Cut into squares and serve while warm, perhaps with a side of fresh fruit or a dollop of sour cream.

The Perfect Breakfast for Any Occasion

This hashbrown breakfast casserole is incredibly versatile. Whether you’re feeding a family or hosting a brunch gathering, it’s the perfect dish to prepare in advance and bake when you’re ready to eat. You can even customize it based on what you have in your fridge. Don’t have ground beef? Swap it for sausage, bacon, or even diced ham. Want to add more vegetables? Toss in some spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra flavor and nutrition. The possibilities are endless!

Why This Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole Stands Out

What truly sets this casserole apart is its comforting texture and balanced flavor. The crispy hashbrowns provide a satisfying crunch, while the eggs and cheese create a creamy and rich contrast. The addition of bell peppers and onions brings freshness and a slight sweetness, balancing the richness of the beef and cheese. Plus, the casserole can be prepared the night before and baked the next morning, making it a perfect option for busy families or holiday mornings when you need to feed a crowd quickly and easily.

FAQs About Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole

Can I make this hashbrown breakfast casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole the night before and refrigerate it overnight. The next morning, simply bake it as directed. This is a great time-saver if you have a busy morning ahead.

Can I freeze the casserole for later?
Absolutely! If you want to make this casserole ahead of time for a future meal, it freezes well. After assembling, cover the casserole tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready to bake it, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking as usual.

What can I add to this casserole for extra flavor?
You can customize the casserole with additional ingredients such as cooked sausage, bacon, mushrooms, spinach, or diced tomatoes. A bit of hot sauce or salsa can also add some heat and flavor to the dish.

Can I use regular milk instead of evaporated milk?
Yes, you can substitute regular milk for evaporated milk if that’s what you have on hand. Evaporated milk adds a bit more creaminess, but regular milk will work just fine.

Can I make this casserole without meat?
Absolutely! For a vegetarian version, simply omit the meat and consider adding more vegetables, such as spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini, to keep the dish hearty and flavorful.

How do I store leftovers?
Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave or bake it in the oven at 350°F for about 15–20 minutes.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this hashbrown breakfast casserole is the perfect breakfast or brunch option that combines convenience with amazing flavor. With its golden, crispy hashbrowns, savory ground beef, vibrant bell peppers, and creamy cheese, it’s a dish everyone will love. Plus, its versatility allows for endless customization, so you can make it your own. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday gathering or just a weekend treat, this casserole is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Don’t forget to share it with friends and family—they’ll be asking for seconds!

Enjoy every bite of this comforting dish that combines hearty ingredients and delicious flavors. Your mornings just got a whole lot better with this easy, crowd-pleasing hashbrown breakfast casserole recipe!

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