This Cheesy Potato Breakfast Casserole is the perfect way to start your day! Packed with yummy potatoes, eggs, and oozy cheese, it’s warm and filling.
Honestly, who can resist gooey cheese in the morning? I love to add some veggies for extra flavor. It’s super easy to throw together and great for a family brunch!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Hash Brown Potatoes: Frozen shredded hash browns are a big time-saver here! If you prefer fresh, you can grate your own potatoes, but you’ll need to squeeze out excess moisture.
Onion and Bell Pepper: Onions add sweetness and flavor. If you’re not a big onion fan, try using green onions instead. For the bell pepper, any color works, but red has a nice sweetness!
Breakfast Sausage or Bacon: I like crumbling cooked sausage for extra flavor, but turkey sausage or even vegetarian sausage are great alternatives. You can skip meat entirely for a veggie version!
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives the best flavor. If you want to mix it up, try Monterey Jack or a blend of cheeses for a melty, delicious finish.
Eggs and Milk: These keep the casserole fluffy. You can use egg substitutes for a lower cholesterol option and dairy-free milk if you’re lactose intolerant.
How Do You Get the Eggs Set Perfectly Without Overbaking?
Getting the eggs just right in your casserole is key. Here are some tips:
- Make sure to mix the egg and milk thoroughly to ensure even cooking.
- Check for doneness around the 45-minute mark. The eggs should be set but not dry.
- If the top browns too quickly, cover with foil and continue baking until done.
- Let it rest for at least 5 minutes after baking to firm up before cutting – trust me, it helps!
Cheesy Potato Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 6 cups frozen shredded hash brown potatoes (thawed)
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/2 cup finely chopped red bell pepper
- 1 cup cooked and crumbled breakfast sausage or bacon bits
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 8 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Fresh chopped chives or parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This cheesy potato breakfast casserole will take about 15 minutes to prep, and then you’ll bake it for about 45 to 55 minutes. So, set aside a total of about 1 hour to 1 hour and 10 minutes, including the resting time before serving. Perfect for a hearty breakfast or brunch!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Dish:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s warming up, grab a 9×13 inch casserole dish and grease it with cooking spray or a little butter so that nothing sticks later on.
2. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, toss together the thawed hash brown potatoes, chopped onion, chopped red bell pepper, and cooked breakfast sausage or bacon bits. Mix it up! You want everything to be combined well.
3. Add Cheese to the Mix:
Sprinkle 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese over the mixture. Stir lightly to make sure the cheese is distributed, adding a cheesy goodness to that potato mix.
4. Prepare the Egg Mixture:
In another bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk, then add the salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Keep whisking until it’s all smooth and combined.
5. Combine Everything into the Casserole Dish:
Pour the egg mixture over the potato, cheese, and sausage mixture in the greased casserole dish. Gently stir to make sure everything is nicely blended.
6. Final Cheese Topping:
Now it’s time to sprinkle that last 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese over the top. This is what will give you that lovely melty cheesy crust!
7. Bake the Casserole:
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake it uncovered for 45 to 55 minutes. You’re looking for it to puff up and turn golden brown on top. Check for doneness by making sure the eggs are fully set.
8. Let It Rest:
Once you take it out of the oven, let the casserole sit for about 5 minutes. This will help it firm up a bit before you cut into it.
9. Garnish and Serve:
If you like, sprinkle some fresh chopped chives or parsley on top before serving for a pop of color. Cut into squares and serve warm. Enjoy your delicious, cheesy breakfast casserole!
This casserole is not just filling, but it’s packed with flavors and makes for a comforting start to your day. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Fresh Hash Browns Instead of Frozen?
Absolutely! If you’re using fresh potatoes, grate them and make sure to squeeze out any excess moisture before mixing them into the casserole for the best texture.
Can I Make This Casserole Vegetarian?
Definitely! Simply omit the sausage or bacon and add in extra vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or diced zucchini to maintain the hearty flavor. You can also use vegetarian sausage for an additional protein boost!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm it back up in the oven until heated through.
Can I Freeze the Casserole Before Baking?
Yes! Prepare the casserole up until the baking step, cover it tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake, thaw it in the fridge overnight, then bake as directed. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s still a bit cold.
