Ultimate Breakfast Casserole
Let me tell you a secret: the best mornings begin with a dish that’s as comforting as a warm blanket and as satisfying as a weekend hug. Enter my Ultimate Breakfast Casserole—a golden, cheesy, soul-soothing masterpiece that’s guaranteed to turn even the grumpiest early riser into a morning person. Imagine layers of crispy hashbrowns, smoky bacon, velvety eggs, and melted cheese, all baked into one glorious dish. Whether you’re feeding a crowd, prepping for busy weekdays, or just craving a breakfast that feels like a celebration, this recipe is your new best friend. Let’s get cooking!
Perfect For
- Family brunches (hello, holidays and Sundays!)
- Meal prep champions (make it ahead, sleep in!)
- Potluck superstars (guaranteed empty dish to take home)
- Comfort food lovers (because sometimes you just need cheesy carbs)
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One-pan wonder: Minimal cleanup, maximum flavor.
- Customizable: Swap ingredients based on what’s in your fridge.
- Crowd-friendly: Serves 4–6 hungry humans (or 2 very enthusiastic ones).
- Freezer-friendly: Bake now, reheat later—breakfast solved!
Ingredients You Need (for 4–6 persons)
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups (200g) frozen shredded hashbrowns, thawed
- 1 cup (120g) cooked bacon, chopped (or sausage crumbles)
- 1 cup (120g) shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup (60g) diced bell peppers (any color)
- ½ cup (50g) diced onion
- 1 cup (240ml) milk (whole or 2%)
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
- Optional garnish: chopped green onions, hot sauce
Ingredient Highlights
- Hashbrowns: The crispy, golden base that holds it all together.
- Bacon: Adds smoky, savory depth (vegetarians, see variations below!).
- Cheddar cheese: Melts into gooey perfection.
Preparation Time
- Prep: 15 minutes
- Cooking: 45 minutes
- Total: 1 hour
Step-by-Step Preparation Instructions
1. Preheat & Prep
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil or butter.
2. Layer the Hashbrowns
- Spread thawed hashbrowns evenly in the baking dish. Press down lightly to form a crust-like layer.
3. Cook the Bacon & Veggies
- In a skillet, cook bacon until crispy. Remove, then sauté onions and bell peppers in the bacon fat (or olive oil) for 3–4 minutes until soft.
4. Mix the Egg Base
- In a bowl, whisk eggs, milk, salt, and pepper until smooth.
5. Assemble the Casserole
- Layer cooked bacon and sautéed veggies over the hashbrowns. Pour the egg mixture evenly on top. Sprinkle cheese like you’re decorating a cake.
6. Bake to Perfection
- Bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes until the eggs are set and the top is golden. Let cool 5 minutes before slicing.
Calories per Person
| Serving Size (grams) | Calories |
|---|---|
| 300g | 450 kcal |
How to Serve
- Classic: Serve with ketchup or hot sauce and a side of fresh fruit.
- Fancy-pants: Top with avocado slices, sour cream, or a drizzle of sriracha mayo.
- Brunch hero: Pair with mimosas, coffee, and a stack of pancakes.
How to Store
- Fridge: Cool completely, cover tightly, and store for up to 3 days. Reheat slices in the microwave or oven.
- Freezer: Wrap individual portions in foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
Additional Tips
- Thaw hashbrowns first: Squeeze out excess moisture to avoid a soggy casserole.
- Go veggie: Skip bacon and add spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini.
- Crispy hack: Broil the casserole for 2–3 minutes at the end for extra crunch.
Recipe Variations
- Southwest style: Add black beans, corn, and jalapeños. Swap cheddar for pepper jack.
- Bread lover’s twist: Replace hashbrowns with cubed stale bread (hello, strata!).
- Healthy-ish: Use turkey bacon, egg whites, and reduced-fat cheese.
Special Equipment
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Mixing bowls + whisk
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this the night before?
A: Absolutely! Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Bake as directed (add 5–10 minutes if cold from the fridge).
Q: Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hashbrowns?
A: Yes! Grate 2 medium potatoes, rinse, and squeeze dry before using.
Q: Is this gluten-free?
A: Yes, if using gluten-free hashbrowns (check packaging).
Conclusion
Food has a magical way of turning ordinary moments into memories. This Ultimate Breakfast Casserole isn’t just a recipe—it’s a warm invitation to slow down, gather around the table, and savor the simple joys of a homemade meal. Whether it’s a sleepy Sunday or a hectic Tuesday, this dish promises to make your breakfast (or brunch, or dinner—no judgment here!) a little brighter.
Contact us at [email protected], and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible!
Share your experience with us
good for a nice dinner
nice
