This breakfast casserole is a crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for holidays, brunch, or any morning gathering! It’s packed with fluffy eggs, cheesy goodness, crispy hash browns, and your favorite breakfast meats. Prepare it ahead of time and bake it in the morning for a stress-free and delicious breakfast.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Make-Ahead Convenience: Perfect for busy mornings, this casserole can be assembled the night before.
Hearty and Satisfying: A filling combination of potatoes, eggs, cheese, and meat.
Customizable: Easily adapt the ingredients to suit your preferences and dietary needs.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Breakfast Casserole:

Frozen shredded hash brown potatoes: For a crispy base.
Salt and pepper: To taste, for seasoning the potatoes.
Large eggs: For a fluffy and protein-rich base.
Half and half: Adds creaminess and richness to the egg mixture.
Seasoned salt: Enhances the overall flavor.
Shredded cheddar cheese: For a classic cheesy flavor.
Shredded pepper jack cheese: Adds a touch of spice and creaminess.
Chopped ham, sausage, bacon, or preferred meat: For a hearty protein boost.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

How to Make The Best Breakfast Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the Hash Brown Base

Spray a 13 x 9 x 2-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
Add the frozen shredded hash brown potatoes to the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
Season the potatoes with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 2: Prepare the Egg Mixture

In a large bowl, whisk together the large eggs.
Add the half and half and seasoned salt, then whisk to combine.
Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, shredded pepper jack cheese, and chopped ham (or preferred meat).

Step 3: Assemble and Chill

Pour the egg mixture over the frozen hash browns.
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.

Step 4: Bake and Serve

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius).
Bake the casserole uncovered for 60-75 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown.
Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Garnish with green onions, if desired.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Thaw the Hash Browns: For even cooking, partially thaw the hash browns before adding them to the baking dish.
Customize the Meat: Use any breakfast meat you prefer, such as sausage, bacon, ham, or even a vegetarian alternative.
Add Vegetables: Incorporate chopped vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrients.
Adjust the Cheese: Use your favorite cheese blend or experiment with different cheese varieties.
Check for Doneness: The casserole is done when the eggs are set and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean.

How to Serve

Brunch: Serve this casserole as a main dish for brunch, alongside fresh fruit and pastries.
Holiday Breakfast: A perfect dish for holiday mornings, especially Christmas or Easter.
Family Gatherings: A crowd-pleasing option for family breakfasts or potlucks.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover breakfast casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Freezing¹

You can freeze the assembled casserole before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed.

FAQs

Can I use milk instead of half and half?

Yes, you can use milk, but the casserole will be less creamy.

Can I use a different type of potato?

Yes, you can use diced potatoes or sweet potatoes instead of hash browns.

Can I make this casserole vegetarian?

Yes, simply omit the meat and add extra vegetables.

How can I make this casserole spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes, a diced jalapeño, or a dash of hot sauce to the egg mixture.