Cheesy Ham and Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole

This Cheesy Ham and Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole holds a special place in my heart. Growing up, Sunday mornings were a sacred time in our household. My mom would whip up this delightful dish, filling the kitchen with the aroma of melting cheese and sizzling ham. It was a family tradition that brought us together, and now, I carry on that legacy in my own home. Every bite is a reminder of laughter, love, and the joy of sharing a meal with those we cherish.

What Makes It Special

• Comfort Food at Its Best: This casserole is the epitome of comfort food, combining creamy cheese, savory ham, and crispy hash browns.
• Easy to Prepare: With minimal prep time, you can have this dish in the oven in no time, making it perfect for busy mornings.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize it with your favorite veggies or different types of cheese, making it a dish that can evolve with your tastes.
• Feeds a Crowd: This recipe is perfect for brunch gatherings or holiday breakfasts, serving up to 8 people comfortably.

Gather Your Ingredients

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 45 minutes | Servings: 8

• 1 (30 oz) bag frozen hash browns
• 2 cups diced ham
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 6 large eggs
• 1 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: chopped green onions for garnish

Let’s Get Cooking

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the frozen hash browns, diced ham, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
3. In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour the egg mixture over the hash brown mixture and stir until well combined.
5. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish and spread it evenly.
6. Top with the remaining cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, or until the casserole is set and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
8. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired.

Helpful Hints & Variations

For a twist on this classic dish, try adding sautéed bell peppers or spinach for a pop of color and nutrition. You can also swap out the ham for cooked sausage or bacon for a different flavor profile. If you’re feeling adventurous, experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack or gouda for an extra kick!

Perfect Pairings

This casserole pairs wonderfully with a fresh fruit salad or a side of crispy bacon. For drinks, consider serving it with freshly squeezed orange juice or a warm cup of coffee. If you have a sweet tooth, a slice of coffee cake or cinnamon rolls would make a delightful dessert to round out your brunch.

From My Inbox

Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

A: Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole the night before, cover it, and refrigerate it. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.

Why I Love This Recipe

This Cheesy Ham and Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of family and togetherness. Each time I make it, I’m reminded of those cherished Sunday mornings filled with laughter and love. I hope it brings the same warmth to your table as it does to mine.

Your Turn

I invite you to try this recipe and make it your own! Feel free to tweak the ingredients to suit your taste, and don’t forget to share your experiences and any variations you come up with. Let’s keep the tradition alive together!