This Cheesy Potato Breakfast Casserole is a warm and tasty way to start your day! With creamy cheese, fluffy potatoes, and a hint of eggs, it’s simply irresistible.
Not to mention, it’s super easy to make—just mix and bake! I love serving it with a side of fresh fruit for a colorful breakfast plate. Trust me, you won’t want to skip this one! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Hash Brown Potatoes: Frozen shredded hash browns save time, but you can make your own using fresh potatoes if you prefer. Just grate them and squeeze out the moisture. This can create a crispier base!
Breakfast Sausage/Bacon: I often use breakfast sausage for its flavor, but feel free to swap with diced ham or turkey sausage if desired. For a vegetarian option, use cooked mushrooms or a veggie sausage instead.
Bell Peppers: The colorful red and green peppers add sweetness and crunch. If you’re not a fan of bell peppers, try using spinach or kale for a different twist, and they’ll blend beautifully with the cheesy flavors.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a nice tang. If you’re looking for something milder, try using Monterey Jack or a Colby blend. It’s fun to mix different cheeses for depth in flavor!
How Can I Ensure My Casserole Is Cooked Perfectly?
The secret to a great casserole is making sure everything cooks evenly! Here are some tips:
- Layering: Spread the hash browns evenly and add your toppings in a single layer to avoid soggy spots.
- Bake Time: Check if the casserole is set by inserting a knife in the center. If it comes out clean, it’s done!
- Rest Time: Letting the dish rest for a few minutes after baking allows it to firm up, making it easier to cut neat slices.
With these tips, your breakfast casserole will be sure to impress everyone at the table! Enjoy your delicious creation! 😊
How to Make Cheesy Potato Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- Hash Browns: 6 cups frozen shredded hash brown potatoes, thawed
- Protein: 1 cup diced cooked breakfast sausage or bacon
- Veggies: 1/2 cup diced green bell pepper
- Veggies: 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
- Veggies: 1/2 cup diced onion
- Cheese: 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
- Eggs: 8 large eggs
- Milk: 1 cup milk
- Seasoning: 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Seasoning: 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Seasoning: 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional Garnish: 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and then 45-55 minutes to bake. In total, you’re looking at around 1 hour and 10 minutes from start to enjoying this cheesy goodness!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the casserole will cook evenly throughout.
2. Prepare the Casserole Dish:
Lightly grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish to prevent sticking. This makes serving the casserole much easier later!
3. Layer the Hash Browns:
Evenly spread the shredded hash brown potatoes across the bottom of the prepared casserole dish. This will be the base of your delicious breakfast dish!
4. Add the Toppings:
Now, sprinkle the cooked breakfast sausage or bacon, followed by the diced green and red bell peppers, and finally the diced onions over the hash browns. This layer adds flavor and color!
5. Sprinkle the Cheese:
Take 1 1/2 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese and sprinkle it evenly over the top of the vegetable and sausage mixture. Cheese makes everything better!
6. Mix the Egg Mixture:
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until well combined. This will be the binding ingredient for your casserole.
7. Pour Over the Layers:
Carefully pour the egg mixture evenly over the potato and veggie layers in the casserole dish. Make sure it’s spread out nicely so every bite is flavorful!
8. Top with More Cheese:
Finish off by topping the casserole with the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. This creates a delicious, cheesy crust on top!
9. Bake and Set:
Place the casserole in the oven and bake uncovered for 45-55 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t over-brown.
10. Let It Rest:
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes to firm up a bit. This helps with slicing!
11. Serve and Enjoy:
If desired, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for added color. Slice, serve warm, and enjoy this crowd-pleasing breakfast casserole with family and friends!
This hearty, cheesy breakfast casserole is sure to become a favorite morning dish. Enjoy every bite! 😊
Can I Use Fresh Potatoes Instead of Frozen Hash Browns?
Absolutely! If you prefer using fresh potatoes, you can grate them and squeeze out any excess moisture. This gives you a crispier texture, just be mindful to precook them slightly to ensure they’re tender before baking the casserole.
What Can I Substitute for Breakfast Sausage or Bacon?
If you’re looking for a substitute, try diced ham or turkey sausage for a leaner option. For vegetarians, you can use cooked mushrooms or a plant-based sausage for added flavor without the meat.
Can I Prepare This Casserole the Night Before?
Yes, you can! Simply assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate overnight. When you’re ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, just pop individual servings in the microwave or warm them up in the oven until heated through. Enjoy your tasty leftovers!
