Start your morning off right with this hearty, cheesy Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole! Packed with crispy hashbrowns, savory meat, and fluffy eggs, this casserole is perfect for feeding a crowd or prepping for a week’s worth of breakfast. It’s easy to make, customizable, and sure to be a hit with the whole family.
Why You’ll Love This Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole
- Easy and Convenient: Perfect for prepping ahead of time or serving a large group.
- Packed with Flavor: Cheesy, savory, and satisfying—this casserole is full of breakfast favorites.
- Customizable: Easily switch up the ingredients to suit your taste or what you have on hand.
Ingredients for Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole
- 1 (30 oz) bag frozen shredded hashbrowns, thawed
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey or sausage)
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ¼ cup chopped green onions or parsley (optional, for garnish)
Tools You’ll Need
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Large skillet
- Mixing bowl
- Spatula
How to Make Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray or butter.
Step 2: Cook the Meat
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef (or sausage) over medium heat until browned, about 7-8 minutes. Break it up into crumbles as it cooks.
- Add the chopped onion to the skillet and sauté until soft, about 3 minutes. Drain any excess fat, and set the meat mixture aside.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
- In the prepared baking dish, spread the thawed hashbrowns evenly over the bottom.
- Sprinkle the cooked meat and onions over the hashbrowns, followed by 1½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese.
Step 4: Make the Egg Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Pour the egg mixture evenly over the hashbrowns, meat, and cheese.
Step 5: Bake the Casserole
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the eggs are fully set and the top is golden brown.
- In the last 5 minutes of baking, sprinkle some extra shredded cheese on top if you’d like a cheesy finish.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped green onions or parsley for a fresh touch.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole
- Make It Ahead: Assemble the casserole the night before, cover, and refrigerate. In the morning, just pop it in the oven and bake!
- Customize It: Add cooked bacon, sautéed bell peppers, or spinach for extra flavor and texture. You can also switch up the cheese with mozzarella or pepper jack.
- Hashbrowns: Be sure to thaw and pat dry your hashbrowns so they don’t make the casserole soggy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hashbrowns?
A: Yes! You can shred fresh potatoes and use them in place of frozen hashbrowns. Just be sure to squeeze out any excess moisture before using.
Q2: Can I freeze this casserole?
A: Absolutely! Bake the casserole, let it cool, then wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Q3: Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
A: Yes! Omit the meat and add extra veggies like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for a delicious vegetarian version.
Conclusion: A Breakfast to Satisfy Everyone!
This Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole is an easy, make-ahead dish that will keep you and your family fueled for the day. With crispy hashbrowns, savory meat, and cheesy eggs, this dish has everything you need for a hearty and delicious breakfast. Perfect for holidays, weekend brunches, or meal prepping!
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 300
- Protein: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fat: 17g
- Fiber: 2g
Enjoy this comforting breakfast casserole, and don’t forget to make extra for leftovers!
