Easy & Delicious Ham and Cheese Breakfast Casserole with Crispy Hash Browns
This easy breakfast casserole with ham and cheese is not just simple to make; it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will quickly become your go-to recipe. Imagine slicing into those savory layers of perfectly seasoned hash browns, rich ham, fluffy eggs, and generously melted cheese – a truly irresistible combination. Its effortless preparation makes it an ideal choice for busy weekdays, leisurely weekend brunches, or even a comforting meal to feed a hungry crowd during the holidays.
Why This Ham & Cheese Breakfast Casserole is a Weekday Warrior and Weekend Winner
This breakfast casserole truly shines because of its incredible simplicity and adaptability, making it an ideal choice for any day of the week. The secret to its ease lies in two key ingredients: pre-diced ham and readily available store-bought hash browns. These time-savers drastically cut down on prep work, allowing you to whip up a hearty meal without the hassle of extensive chopping or grating. You’ll only need one bowl to whisk together the eggs, milk, and seasonings, streamlining your kitchen process and minimizing cleanup. The rest of the magic happens as you layer everything neatly into a baking dish.
While the actual hands-on preparation takes a mere ten minutes, the casserole needs 30-40 minutes in the oven. This baking time is a significant advantage, as it allows you to multitask. You can get yourself and your family ready for the day, enjoy a cup of coffee, or simply relax while your delicious breakfast bakes to golden perfection. Imagine the aroma filling your home as everyone prepares to start their day!
This casserole is also a brilliant solution for utilizing leftover ham from special occasions like holidays. After Thanksgiving, for instance, we often make a delicious turkey hash brown casserole. Similarly, after Christmas or Easter feasts, this ham and cheese version is the perfect way to transform those holiday leftovers into another satisfying meal. It’s a fantastic way to prevent food waste and enjoy the flavors of your holiday spread in a fresh, new context. Its versatility and make-ahead potential make it a true kitchen hero.
Key Ingredients for Your Ham and Cheese Breakfast Casserole
Crafting this savory ham and cheese breakfast casserole requires a few simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create a symphony of flavors and textures. The full list of measurements, ingredients, and detailed instructions can be found in the printable recipe card at the very end of this post. However, let’s dive into some specifics about the key components that make this dish so special.
Ingredient Info and Substitution Suggestions for Ultimate Flavor
Understanding your ingredients and knowing when to substitute can elevate your cooking experience and ensure a successful dish every time. Here’s a deeper look into the components of this ham and cheese breakfast casserole:
HASH BROWNS – For ultimate convenience and a perfectly crispy base, look for bags of refrigerated shredded or diced hash browns in your grocery store’s refrigerated section. These are usually ready to go, and often come pre-seasoned, which significantly cuts down on your prep time. If you prefer to customize the flavor profile, opt for plain hash browns and unleash your creativity with your spice cabinet. Garlic powder, onion powder, a pinch of smoked paprika, or even a dash of cayenne pepper can add a wonderful kick. If you can only find frozen hash browns, remember to thaw them completely in the bag and pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This step is crucial for achieving that desirable crispy texture rather than a soggy bottom.
CHEESE – While pre-shredded cheese offers undeniable convenience, I always recommend buying blocks of cheddar cheese and shredding them yourself, ideally using a food processor for speed. Block cheese melts smoother and creamier because it lacks the anti-caking agents found in many pre-shredded varieties. Shred it the same day you buy it and store it in an airtight zipper bag in the refrigerator for freshness. However, don’t let the lack of block cheese deter you; pre-shredded cheese will absolutely work and makes the process even easier! Feel free to experiment with other melting cheeses like Monterey Jack, Colby, Swiss, or a cheddar-jack blend for a different flavor profile.
HAM AND ADDITIONS – Diced ham is the star here! You can find it readily available in the deli section of most supermarkets. This recipe is also perfect for repurposing leftover holiday ham, transforming it into a delightful new meal. For the egg mixture, we use a simple combination of eggs, a little milk (2% works well, but whole milk will yield an even richer casserole), salt, and pepper. A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley adds a touch of color and fresh herbaceousness. While not included in the base recipe, bell peppers (any color), finely diced onions (sautéed slightly for sweetness), or even a handful of fresh spinach (wilted before adding) would be fantastic additions to boost flavor and nutrition. If you’re looking to add more protein, cooked and crumbled bacon or browned sausage can also be incorporated beautifully. Don’t be afraid to make this recipe your own!
How to Make This Irresistible Ham and Cheese Breakfast Casserole
These step-by-step photos and instructions are here to help you visualize how to make this recipe. You can Jump to Recipe to get the printable version of this recipe, complete with measurements and instructions at the bottom.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare an 8×8 baking dish by lightly coating it with cooking spray. This ensures your casserole won’t stick and makes for easy cleanup. Once prepped, spread the hash browns evenly across the bottom of the dish, forming a solid base. Layer the shredded cheese over the hash browns, followed by the diced ham. This layering technique helps distribute the flavors and ensures every bite is packed with goodness.
- In a medium-sized bowl, beat the eggs vigorously with the milk, kosher salt, ground black pepper, and fresh chopped parsley. Whisk until the mixture is well combined and slightly frothy. This ensures a light and airy texture for your egg base.
- Carefully pour the whisked egg mixture over the layers of ham, cheese, and potatoes in the baking dish. Make sure the egg mixture is evenly distributed, covering all the ingredients.
- Bake uncovered for approximately 45 minutes, or until the eggs are completely set in the center and the top is lightly golden brown. You can gently shake the dish; if the center doesn’t jiggle, it’s ready! Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it stand for a few minutes before slicing and serving. This resting period allows the casserole to set further, making for cleaner cuts.
Frequently Asked Questions & Expert Tips for the Perfect Casserole
Absolutely! This is one of the best features of breakfast casseroles. You have two main options:
- Assemble and Refrigerate: Prepare the entire casserole, layering the hash browns, cheese, and ham, then pouring the egg mixture over the top. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight (up to 24 hours). The next morning, simply uncover and bake as directed, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time to ensure it cooks through from cold.
- Bake and Reheat: You can bake the casserole completely the night before, let it cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate. Quickly warm up individual slices in the microwave, oven, or a toaster oven the next morning. It will still taste delicious and be a convenient grab-and-go option.
For optimal freshness and taste, store any leftover baked casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To freeze, allow the casserole to cool completely. You can freeze the entire casserole in its baking dish (if freezer-safe and tightly covered with foil and plastic wrap) or cut it into individual portions before freezing in airtight containers or freezer bags. It will keep well in the freezer for 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Yes, absolutely! This casserole is incredibly versatile. Diced bell peppers (red, green, or yellow), finely chopped onions (sautéed until softened for best flavor), mushrooms, or a handful of fresh spinach are all excellent additions. If adding vegetables with high water content like mushrooms or spinach, it’s best to sauté them lightly first to remove excess moisture; otherwise, they can make your casserole watery.
An 8×8-inch baking dish is perfect for this recipe, serving about 4-6 people. Glass or ceramic dishes work wonderfully for even cooking. If you want to double the recipe for a larger crowd, use a 9×13-inch baking dish and adjust the baking time slightly, likely adding 10-15 minutes, or until the center is set. Remember to always spray your dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking!
The casserole is done when the eggs are fully set in the center. You can check by gently shaking the dish; the center should not jiggle like liquid. Another good indicator is a golden-brown top. If you’re concerned, insert a thin knife or toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, your casserole is ready to enjoy!
While you want your egg mixture well combined, avoid over-whipping it. Excessive air can lead to a rubbery texture. Beat just enough until the yolks and whites are fully incorporated and slightly frothy. Also, ensure your hash browns are spread in an even layer for consistent cooking and a nice crispy base.
Delightful Serving Suggestions for Your Breakfast Casserole
This easy breakfast casserole, packed with savory ham, gooey cheese, and satisfying potatoes, is a wonderfully fulfilling way to kickstart your day. Designed to serve four generous portions, it’s a complete meal in itself, perfect for any occasion from a cozy weekend morning to a festive holiday brunch. Its comforting flavors and hearty ingredients make it an instant hit with both kids and adults.
To elevate your breakfast experience even further, consider pairing this casserole with a fresh fruit salad or a side of crispy toast. For those who enjoy a little extra zing, a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of fresh chives, a dash of your favorite hot sauce, or a spoonful of vibrant salsa can add a fantastic burst of flavor. While the recipe is delicious as is, simple additions like a handful of chopped onions, colorful green peppers, or even crispy bacon bits would take this breakfast casserole to new heights. Feel free to experiment and customize with what your family loves most!
More Irresistible Breakfast Recipes to Try
If you loved this casserole, you’re in for a treat! Here are more delicious breakfast recipes to inspire your mornings:
- Sheet Pan Breakfast Pizza
- Blueberry Breakfast Cake
- Ham and Broccoli Strata
- Tex-Mex Breakfast Bake
- Homemade Cinnamon Rolls
- Hashbrown Casserole
- Corned Beef Hash
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Breakfast Casserole with Ham and Cheese
IMPORTANT – There are often Frequently Asked Questions within the blog post that you may find helpful. Simply scroll back up to read them!
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Ingredients
- Cooking spray
- 10 oz seasoned hash browns see note
- 1 cup cheddar cheese shredded
- 8 oz ham diced
- 6 large eggs
- ¼ cup milk 2%
- ½ tsp kosher salt
- ¼ tsp ground black pepper
- 1 Tbsp parsley fresh, chopped
Things You’ll Need
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8×8 baking dish
Before You Begin
- Look for refrigerated shredded hash browns at the grocery store. If you can’t find them you can use frozen, but thaw them in the bag before using and pat them dry to remove excess moisture for crispier results.
Instructions
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Preheat oven 350 degrees F (175 C). Spray an 8×8 baking dish with cooking spray. Place the hash browns in an even layer in the baking dish. Top with the shredded cheese and diced ham.
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In a medium bowl, beat the eggs with the milk, kosher salt, ground black pepper, and fresh chopped parsley until well combined. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the ham, cheese, and hash browns. Bake uncovered for 45 minutes or until the eggs are set and the casserole is lightly golden. Let stand a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Nutrition
The recipes on this blog are tested with a conventional gas oven and gas stovetop. It’s important to note that some ovens, especially as they age, can cook and bake inconsistently. Using an inexpensive oven thermometer can assure you that your oven is truly heating to the proper temperature. If you use a toaster oven or countertop oven, please keep in mind that they may not distribute heat the same as a conventional full sized oven and you may need to adjust your cooking/baking times. In the case of recipes made with a pressure cooker, air fryer, slow cooker, or other appliance, a link to the appliances we use is listed within each respective recipe. For baking recipes where measurements are given by weight, please note that results may not be the same if cups are used instead, and we can’t guarantee success with that method.
We hope this delightful Ham and Cheese Breakfast Casserole becomes a cherished recipe in your home, bringing smiles to your breakfast table. Enjoy the ease and deliciousness!