This Farmer’s Breakfast Casserole is a warm and hearty dish that’s perfect for any morning! Packed with eggs, potatoes, and colorful veggies, it’s like a breakfast on a plate.
Who knew waking up could be this tasty? I like to make it ahead of time so I can just pop it in the oven. Breakfast cravings don’t stand a chance against this casserole!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Eggs: The heart of the casserole! Large eggs give the best texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, egg whites or a vegan egg substitute can work, but the texture will differ.
Milk: Whole milk makes the mix creamy, but feel free to swap it with almond or soy milk for a dairy-free version. Just make sure it’s unsweetened to keep flavors in check.
Breakfast Sausage: I love using crumbled breakfast sausage for its flavor. If you’re vegetarian, try using plant-based sausage or mushrooms for a meaty texture without the meat.
Diced Ham: The ham adds a nice salty touch. If you’re short on ham, cooked bacon or turkey can be good substitutes. Want it meat-free? Just skip it or use extra veggies!
Cheese: Cheddar adds great flavor, but feel free to use Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a fun twist. Vegan cheese can also be used if you’re going dairy-free.
Frozen Hash Browns: These save time and provide great texture. You can use fresh potatoes, but you’ll need to par-cook them first for even cooking in the casserole.
What’s the Best Way to Layer Ingredients?
Layering is crucial for evenly cooked flavors in your casserole. To get the best results, follow these tips:
- Start with cooked proteins like sausage and ham; they provide a solid base.
- Next, add your veggies like bell peppers and green onions. They add color and flavor.
- Scatter the cheese in between layers; this helps it melt better and brings creaminess.
- Finish with the thawed hash browns on top to create a crispy layer.
This order helps ensure everything cooks evenly and each bite is flavorful!
How to Make Farmer’s Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 2 cups cooked breakfast sausage, crumbled
- 1 ½ cups diced ham
- 1 ½ cups diced red bell pepper
- 1 cup chopped green onions
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 cups frozen hash brown potatoes, thawed and drained
Spices:
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
For Greasing:
- Butter or cooking spray for greasing the pan
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Farmer’s Breakfast Casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 45 to 55 minutes to bake. Including a 5-minute cooling time, you’ll have a hearty breakfast ready in about 1 hour and 15 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Baking Dish:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming up, grab a 9×9 inch baking dish and lightly grease it with butter or cooking spray. This will help your casserole come out easily after baking.
2. Whisk the Eggs:
In a large bowl, crack in the 8 large eggs and pour in 1 cup of milk. Whisk them together until they are well blended. Then, add in the salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Give it a good stir to mix all the seasonings in!
3. Layer the Ingredients:
In your greased baking dish, start layering the ingredients. First, add the diced ham. Next, sprinkle in the crumbled sausage, followed by the diced red bell pepper and chopped green onions. Then, scatter the shredded cheddar cheese and finish with the thawed hash brown potatoes on top. This order helps build great flavors!
4. Pour the Egg Mixture:
Now, carefully pour the egg mixture over all the layers in the baking dish. Use a spatula to gently press down on the ingredients so everything gets mixed and the egg settles nicely.
5. Bake:
Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake it uncovered for 45 to 55 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the casserole is set in the center and a little golden on top. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean!
6. Cool and Serve:
After baking, take the casserole out of the oven and let it stand for about 5 minutes to cool slightly. Then, slice it into squares, serve warm, and enjoy this hearty Farmer’s Breakfast Casserole with family and friends!
Can I Use Egg Substitutes in This Recipe?
Yes! You can use egg substitutes like flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water equals 1 egg) or silken tofu for a vegan option. Keep in mind the texture may change slightly, but it should still taste delicious!
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole the night before, cover it, and refrigerate it. In the morning, just pop it in the oven straight from the fridge — 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, warm individual portions in the microwave or cover and reheat the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
What Can I Substitute for Hash Browns?
If you don’t have hash browns, you can use diced cooked potatoes or tater tots for a fun twist. Just make sure to adjust cooking times as needed, especially if you are using fresh potatoes, which may need to be par-cooked first.
