This cheesy bacon and potato breakfast casserole is a warm hug in a dish! It’s packed with crispy bacon, fluffy potatoes, and melted cheese for a tasty start to your day.
Who can resist a dish that makes breakfast feel like comfort food? I love making this for lazy weekend mornings when everyone’s gathered. It’s simple and everyone asks for seconds!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Hash Brown Potatoes: Frozen hash browns are super convenient and save prep time. If you’d rather use fresh potatoes, peel and dice them, then parboil to soften before adding to your casserole.
Bacon: Crispy bacon adds great flavor! If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey bacon works well too. For a vegetarian version, try using sautéed mushrooms or chopped bell peppers.
Cheddar Cheese: I love sharp cheddar for its strong flavor, but feel free to mix it up! Monterrey Jack or a blend of your favorite cheeses will also work nicely.
Green Onions: These add freshness and a bit of crunch. If you don’t have them, diced bell peppers or even chives can be a tasty alternative!
How Do I Ensure My Casserole Cooks Evenly?
To get that perfect bake, spreading the layers evenly is key. Here’s how:
- Start by evenly distributing the thawed hash browns in the bottom of your greased dish. Press them down slightly to form a solid base.
- Layer the bacon and cheese evenly across the potatoes. This way, each bite is filled with flavor!
- When mixing your egg mixture, ensure it’s well whisked to combine everything thoroughly. Pour it gently over the layered ingredients to avoid displacing them.
Let the casserole sit for a few minutes after baking; this helps it firm up and makes slicing easier!
Cheesy Bacon And Potato Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 4 cups frozen hash brown potatoes, thawed
- 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions (plus more for garnish)
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Cooking spray or butter for greasing
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious breakfast casserole will take about 15 minutes to prep and 45-50 minutes to bake, making a total of about 1 hour. Plus, you’ll want to let it cool for 5 minutes before serving. Perfect for a family breakfast or brunch gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is important, as a hot oven bakes your casserole evenly and helps it rise beautifully.
2. Prepare the Baking Dish:
Grease a 9-inch round baking dish or a similar sized casserole dish with cooking spray or a little butter. This will keep your casserole from sticking.
3. Layer the Ingredients:
Spread the thawed hash brown potatoes evenly in the bottom of the prepared dish. This forms a nice base. Next, sprinkle the crumbled bacon over the potatoes, and follow with the shredded cheddar cheese and chopped green onions. Be sure everything is evenly distributed for great flavor in every bite!
4. Mix the Egg Mixture:
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder until well combined. This mixture makes the casserole rich and filling!
5. Assemble the Casserole:
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layered ingredients in the dish. Make sure to cover everything so it bakes together nicely.
6. Bake:
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 45-50 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the eggs are set and the top is golden brown.
7. Cool and Serve:
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes before slicing. This helps it hold together when serving. Garnish with more chopped green onions for a fresh, tasty touch!
This casserole is cheesy, hearty, and perfect for feeding a crowd. Enjoy this comforting dish for breakfast or brunch—you’ll be sure to impress your family and friends!
Can I Use Fresh Potatoes Instead of Frozen Hash Browns?
Absolutely! If you prefer fresh potatoes, peel and dice them, then parboil for a few minutes to soften before adding them to the casserole. Just ensure that they are cooked enough to blend with the other ingredients by the time the casserole is done baking.
What Other Cheeses Can I Use?
You can certainly mix it up! Besides cheddar, try using Monterey Jack, Colby, or a blend of your favorite cheeses like mozzarella for a meltier texture. Just aim for shredded varieties for easy melting.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole the night before. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, remove it from the fridge, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes, and then bake as directed. It may take a few extra minutes to cook through.
What Should I Serve With This Casserole?
This breakfast casserole is filling on its own, but you can pair it with fresh fruit, a simple green salad, or some toast to complete your meal. A side of salsa or hot sauce also adds a delicious kick!
