This hearty Farmer’s Breakfast Casserole is perfect for starting your day. With eggs, potatoes, cheese, and your choice of veggies or meat, it’s filling and oh-so-tasty!
It’s like a breakfast party in a pan! I love making this for brunch with friends, and there’s always a happy dance when it comes out hot and cheesy. Yum! 🥳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Eggs: The foundation of the casserole! Large eggs give the best rise and fluffiness. If you’re vegan or need an egg substitute, consider using a mixture of silken tofu blended with nutrients or a specific egg replacer for baking.
Hash Brown Potatoes: Frozen hash browns are super convenient. Alternatively, you can use fresh diced potatoes, just make sure to par-cook them to soften before adding to the mix.
Breakfast Sausage: Crumbled sausage adds so much flavor! If you’re looking for a lighter option, turkey sausage works great too. For a vegetarian version, swap in tempeh or veggie sausage.
Bacon: Crispy bacon gives added crunch and a rich taste. Turkey bacon is a healthier choice, but if you want to skip meat altogether, just leave it out or use smoky seasoning for flavor.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar melts beautifully and adds rich flavor. You can replace it with Monterey Jack or even a dairy-free cheese if you’re lactose intolerant.
How Do You Get Perfectly Cooked Eggs in a Casserole?
Cooking eggs in a casserole can be tricky, as they should be set but not rubbery. Here’s how to achieve that:
- Preheat your oven properly before baking to ensure even cooking.
- Don’t overmix the egg mixture; you want a gentle consistency.
- As soon as the edges start to puff and the center isn’t jiggly, it’s time to take it out. Let it rest for a few minutes to firm up.
- Use a knife to check the center; it should come out clean when done.
These tips will help you get deliciously cooked eggs every time!
Farmer’s Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 4 cups frozen hash brown potatoes, thawed
- 1 cup cooked breakfast sausage, crumbled
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and chopped
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced onions
- 1/2 cup diced green bell pepper (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives or green onions (for garnish)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- Butter or cooking spray (for greasing the dish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 40 to 45 minutes to bake in the oven. Make sure to let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. In total, you’ll spend about 1 hour, but the smell of breakfast cooking will make the wait worthwhile!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven & Prepare the Dish:
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming up, lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier!
2. Mix the Egg Base:
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and garlic powder until everything is well combined. This mixture will be your casserole base.
3. Combine Ingredients:
Once your egg mixture is ready, gently stir in the thawed hash brown potatoes, crumbled breakfast sausage, chopped bacon (save some for later if you’d like), onions, and bell pepper if you’re using it. Mix until everything is evenly combined.
4. Fill the Baking Dish:
Pour the mixture into the greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly so every bite is just as delicious!
5. Add Cheese & Bacon:
Sprinkle your shredded cheddar cheese generously on top of the casserole. If you reserved some bacon, use it to garnish the top now for extra crunch and flavor!
6. Bake to Perfection:
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. Keep an eye on it, and look for the center to be set and the top to be golden brown.
7. Cool Before Serving:
Once done, carefully remove it from the oven. Let it sit for a few minutes to cool slightly. This helps it firm up and makes it easier to cut.
8. Garnish & Serve:
Before serving, sprinkle chopped fresh chives or green onions over the top for a burst of color and flavor. Now it’s time to dig in!
Enjoy!
This Farmer’s Breakfast Casserole is not only filling but loaded with flavors! Perfect for a family breakfast or brunch gathering—everyone will love it!
Can I Use Egg Whites Instead of Whole Eggs?
Yes, you can use egg whites if you’re looking to reduce cholesterol or calories! Use about 2 egg whites to replace each whole egg. However, the texture may be a bit different; the casserole might not be as rich and fluffy.
How Can I Make This Casserole Vegetarian?
To make a delicious vegetarian version, simply omit the sausage and bacon. You can add more vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini for extra flavor and nutrients. A meat substitute like plant-based sausage is also a great option!
Can I Prepare This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Just make sure to cover it tightly. When you’re ready to bake, let it come to room temperature while you preheat the oven. It might need a few extra minutes in the oven if it’s cold from the fridge.
How Should I Store Leftover Casserole?
Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop it in the microwave or warm it in the oven until heated through. Enjoy your leftovers at breakfast or whenever hunger strikes!
