Egg and Hashbrown Casserole

Start your day with a hearty egg and hashbrown casserole—a cheesy, flavorful dish that's perfect for any occasion! This make-ahead breakfast combines crispy hashbrowns, fluffy eggs, and gooey melted cheese for the ultimate comfort food. Whether you need a crowd-pleasing recipe for brunch or a quick meal prep solution for busy mornings, this casserole is sure to satisfy!

Classic Egg and Hashbrown Casserole Recipe

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

Ingredients
6 large eggs
1 cup whole milk or heavy cream
3 cups frozen shredded hash browns (thawed)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping, optional)
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp smoked paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 oz cooked bacon or sausage, crumbled (optional for extra protein)

Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk or cream, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Spread the thawed hash browns evenly across the bottom of the baking dish. Sprinkle the crumbled bacon or sausage over the top, if using.
Evenly distribute the shredded cheddar cheese over the hash browns and meat.
Pour the egg mixture over the casserole, ensuring it spreads evenly.
Bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes or until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown.
If desired, sprinkle additional shredded cheese on top during the last 5 minutes of baking.
Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.

Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 210
Protein: 12g
Carbohydrates: 11g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Sodium: 320mg

Cost Per Serving
Approximately $1.40 per serving (based on average ingredient costs).

Things You’ll Love About This Recipe
This recipe is comfort food at its finest: rich, cheesy, and satisfying. It’s easy to make, perfect for feeding a crowd, and doesn’t require any fancy ingredients. A true classic for breakfast or brunch!

Expert Tips for Best Results
Thaw and pat dry the hash browns to avoid excess moisture and ensure a crispy texture.
For extra richness, use heavy cream instead of milk.
Don’t overbake—check the casserole as soon as the center is just set.
Use a glass or ceramic baking dish for even cooking and easy cleanup.

Substitutions
Meat-Free: Skip the bacon or sausage for a vegetarian option, or add extra cheese for more indulgence.
Cheese Swap: Try Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even a sharp white cheddar for a different flavor profile.
Low-Carb: Replace the hash browns with riced cauliflower for a lighter option.

Why This Recipe Works
The combination of creamy eggs, crispy hash browns, and melty cheese creates the ultimate comfort food. The dish is perfectly balanced with a hearty texture from the hash browns, gooey richness from the cheese, and savory flavor from the optional bacon or sausage.

Flavor Variations
All-Cheese Lover: Use a mix of cheddar, gouda, and mozzarella for a super cheesy dish.
Smoky and Spicy: Add a sprinkle of smoked paprika and cayenne for a bit of heat.
Loaded Breakfast: Top the casserole with sour cream and green onions before serving for a loaded baked potato vibe.
Meat Lovers: Double the bacon or sausage for extra protein and savory flavor.

Highlight Ingredients
Eggs: Provide the base for a fluffy, creamy texture and pack in protein.
Hash Browns: The crispy potato layer adds heartiness and structure.
Cheese: Creates gooey richness and enhances the casserole’s savory flavor.
Bacon or Sausage: Optional but adds smoky, meaty depth to the dish.

Meal Prep Ideas
Make ahead by assembling the casserole the night before, covering it tightly, and refrigerating. Bake fresh in the morning.
Bake the casserole, let it cool, and slice into portions for easy reheating throughout the week.
Freeze individual slices for quick breakfasts; reheat in the oven or microwave as needed.
Use muffin tins to create mini casseroles for single-serving breakfasts.

Equipment List
9x13-inch baking dish
Mixing bowl
Whisk
Cutting board
Knife
Measuring cups and spoons

Grocery List
Eggs
Whole milk or heavy cream
Frozen shredded hash browns
Shredded cheddar cheese
Garlic powder
Smoked paprika
Salt
Pepper
Bacon or sausage (optional)

Enjoy this decadent and satisfying breakfast casserole, perfect for weekend brunches or cozy mornings at home! Let me know if you’d like more variations or tweaks.