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Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole (The Ultimate Make-Ahead Crowd-Pleaser)

Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole (The Ultimate Make-Ahead Crowd-Pleaser)

This Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish made with crispy hash browns, fluffy eggs, and plenty of melted cheese. It’s perfect for breakfast or brunch, feeds a crowd, and can be prepped ahead of time—making busy mornings much easier. Whether you add bacon, sausage, or vegetables, this casserole is always a family favorite.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups frozen hash browns (about 1 lb)

  • 8 large eggs

  • 1 cup milk (whole milk or dairy-free alternative)

  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

  • 1 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
    (or sausage, ham, or vegetables)

  • ¼ cup chopped green onions

  • ½ cup diced bell peppers (optional)

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

  • 1 teaspoon onion powder

  • ½ teaspoon salt

  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

  • 12 tablespoons butter (for greasing the pan)

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven
    Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.

  • Prepare the hash browns
    Let frozen hash browns thaw slightly for about 5 minutes. Spread them evenly in the baking dish, pressing gently to form an even layer.

  • Add protein and vegetables
    Sprinkle the cooked bacon (or your chosen protein) evenly over the hash browns. Add bell peppers and green onions if using.

  • Make the egg mixture
    In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until well combined.

  • Add the cheese
    Stir the cheddar and mozzarella into the egg mixture.

  • Assemble the casserole
    Pour the egg and cheese mixture evenly over the hash browns and fillings.

  • Bake
    Bake uncovered for 45–50 minutes, until the top is golden and the center is set. A knife inserted in the middle should come out clean.

  • Serve
    Let cool for about 5 minutes, slice, and serve warm.

Notes

  • Thaw hash browns slightly to prevent excess moisture.

  • Shred your own cheese for better melting and texture.

  • Make it ahead: Assemble the night before, cover, refrigerate, and bake in the morning.

  • Add-ins: Mushrooms, spinach, zucchini, or jalapeños work great.