This Farmer’s Breakfast Casserole is a hearty dish packed with eggs, sausage, and crispy potatoes. It’s perfect for a big family breakfast or brunch with friends!
I love how everything cooks together in one pan. Less mess means more time to enjoy! Plus, you can toss in any veggies you have on hand. Easy peasy! 🥔😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Eggs: The main base of this casserole, eggs are essential for binding everything. If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider using egg whites or egg substitutes. They will still hold together well.
Hash Brown Potatoes: Frozen hash browns save time, but if you’re feeling adventurous, fresh potatoes work too! Just shred them and pre-cook lightly. Sweet potatoes could be a fun, nutritious substitute!
Bacon: Cooked bacon adds savory flavor, but feel free to swap it out for cooked sausage or vegetarian crumbles for a different twist. Smoked turkey bacon is a lighter alternative if you’re watching your fat intake.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar gives that classic flavor, but mozzarella or pepper jack could add a unique touch! If you want to keep it dairy-free, try a plant-based cheese.
Green Onions: These add freshness and crunch. If you don’t have them, regular onions or chives can work too. You might want to sauté them first to mellow the flavor.
How Can I Ensure My Casserole is Fully Cooked?
Cooking the casserole just right can be tricky, but here’s how to nail it:
- Use a reliable oven thermometer to check your oven’s temperature. Sometimes ovens can be off.
- When baking, look for a golden-brown top and a firm center. The edges should pull slightly away from the sides of the dish.
- Test with a toothpick or knife inserted in the middle; it should come out clean when it’s done.
- If you want that decorative look, remember to add whole eggs on top only if you’re confident they’ll cook through!
Letting it rest a few minutes before slicing can also help with serving and texture. Happy cooking!
Farmer’s Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 4 cups frozen hash brown potatoes (thawed or partially thawed)
- 1 cup cooked bacon, chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- Cooking spray or butter for greasing the baking dish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Farmer’s Breakfast Casserole takes about 15 minutes to prep and around 35-45 minutes to bake. You’ll spend a bit of time mixing everything together and then just let the oven do the work. Perfect for a cozy breakfast or brunch!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Dish:
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s heating up, grab a 9×9-inch square baking dish and lightly grease it with cooking spray or butter. This helps prevent sticking!
2. Whisking the Egg Mixture:
In a large bowl, crack those 8 eggs and pour in 1 cup of milk. Add 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, and if you like, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder for extra flavor. Whisk it all together until it’s nice and smooth.
3. Mixing in the Goodies:
Now stir in the thawed hash browns, chopped bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped green onions until everything is well combined. This is where the flavor comes together!
4. Pouring into the Dish:
Carefully pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish. Make sure to spread it out evenly in the pan, so it cooks uniformly. If you want to add a fun touch, you can arrange a few whole eggs on top for a sunny side-up look before baking!
5. Baking Time:
Pop the casserole into the oven and let it bake for 35-45 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the edges are golden brown and a toothpick or knife inserted into the center comes out clean. If you see that lovely golden color, it’s perfect!
6. Cooling and Serving:
Once done, take it out of the oven and let it cool slightly. This makes it easier to cut. Before serving, sprinkle some extra chopped green onions on top for a fresh touch! Slice it into squares and enjoy your warm, hearty Farmer’s Breakfast Casserole!
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While frozen hash browns are convenient, you can use fresh grated potatoes. Just make sure to pre-cook them slightly to soften and remove excess moisture. Sweet potatoes are also a great alternative for a flavorful twist!
Can I Make This Casserole Vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this dish vegetarian by omitting the bacon and adding more veggies like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms. You can also use plant-based bacon for added flavor without any meat!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or microwave individual portions until warmed through.
Can I Prepare This the Night Before?
Absolutely! You can assemble everything the night before and cover it in the fridge. Just pop it in the oven the next morning for a quick and easy breakfast option. If it’s chilled, it might take a little longer to bake, so keep an eye on it!
