This Cheesy Potato Breakfast Casserole is a warm and comforting dish, loaded with fluffy potatoes, gooey cheese, and savory eggs. Perfect for a lazy weekend brunch!
On busy mornings, I whip this up the night before, pop it in the oven, and breakfast is ready! It’s always a hit, so grab your forks and dig in! 🥄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Frozen Hash Brown Potatoes: These are your base, providing a fluffy texture. If you prefer fresh potatoes, you can dice them and par-boil before using. Alternatively, you could use sweet potatoes for a unique twist!
Bacon or Sausage: I love using bacon for that smoky flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, turkey bacon or cooked sausage also works well. For a vegetarian version, just skip the meat or add some sautéed mushrooms!
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar adds rich flavor, but you can mix it up! Try Monterey Jack or pepper jack for added spice. Using a cheese blend can also create a delicious variation.
Green Onions and Bell Peppers: These add freshness and crunch. If you don’t have them, diced tomatoes or spinach could also be great alternatives. Just make sure to drain any excess moisture to prevent sogginess.
How Do I Ensure My Eggs Are Set Perfectly?
To make sure your eggs are perfectly set in the casserole, follow these tips:
- Mix your eggs and liquids well to create a fluffy texture. Whisk thoroughly until all ingredients are blended.
- Keep an eye on your baking time. Ovens can vary, so check for doneness around the 40-minute mark.
- A knife inserted in the center should come out clean; if it’s runny, it needs more time in the oven.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps it set further and makes slicing easier.
With these tips, you’ll have a deliciously cheesy and satisfying breakfast casserole every time! Enjoy! 🌟
How to Make Cheesy Potato Breakfast Casserole?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 6 cups frozen hash brown potatoes, thawed
- 1 cup cooked bacon, chopped (or cooked sausage as an alternative)
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup green onions, sliced (plus extra for garnish)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
For the Egg Mixture:
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
For Greasing:
- Cooking spray or butter
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful breakfast casserole will take about 15 minutes to prep and around 45 to 55 minutes to bake. So in total, you’re looking at about 1 hour and 10 minutes to have this delicious dish ready for your table!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating, grab a 9×13 inch casserole dish and grease it well with cooking spray or butter. This will help prevent sticking and make serving easier!
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed hash brown potatoes, cooked bacon, diced red bell pepper, sliced green onions, and 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese. Give it a good stir to mix everything together evenly.
3. Create the Egg Mixture:
In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, sour cream, milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder until you have a smooth mixture. This will make your casserole creamy and flavorful!
4. Combine and Transfer:
Pour your egg mixture over the potato mix in the large bowl. Stir gently until everything is well coated. Once mixed, transfer this mixture to your prepared casserole dish, spreading it out evenly across the bottom.
5. Add Cheese and Bake:
Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Now it’s time to bake! Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake, uncovered, for about 45 to 55 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a knife into the center—if it comes out clean, you’re good to go!
6. Cool and Serve:
Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes. This helps it set a little more, making it easier to slice. Before serving, garnish with extra sliced green onions for a pop of color and flavor!
Enjoy your warm, cheesy breakfast casserole alongside fresh fruit or toast for a delightful meal to start your day!
Can I Use Fresh Potatoes Instead of Frozen Hash Browns?
Yes, you can! Just peel and dice fresh potatoes, then par-boil them for about 10 minutes before mixing them in. This will help achieve a similar texture to frozen hash browns.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole the night before and store it covered in the fridge. Just bake it in the morning, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
What Can I Substitute for Sour Cream?
If you don’t have sour cream, plain Greek yogurt is a great alternative! It offers a similar tangy flavor and adds creaminess to the dish.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave or warm it in the oven until heated through. Enjoy it for a quick breakfast or snack!
