Farmer’s Casserole: My Favorite Make-Ahead Brunch Bake
When you want a breakfast that’s hearty, hands-off, and guaranteed to impress—Farmer’s Casserole is the one. With layers of crispy hash browns, savory ham, gooey cheese, and a rich, custardy egg mixture, this classic bake is your one-dish solution to weekend mornings, holiday brunches, or feeding a hungry family with zero stress.
The best part? You prep it the night before, pop it in the oven in the morning, and serve up a hot, filling breakfast while still sipping coffee in your slippers.
Why I Love This Recipe
There are a lot of breakfast casseroles out there, but this one has earned permanent rotation in my kitchen. It’s versatile, satisfying, and totally beginner-friendly. Whether you’re cooking for guests or meal prepping for the week, Farmer’s Casserole delivers every time.
Why it works:
- Make-ahead friendly: Perfect overnight or prepped a few hours in advance.
- Customizable: Swap proteins, cheeses, or veggies based on what you have.
- Feeds a crowd: Easily doubles for gatherings.
- Comforting and cheesy: Enough said.
Ingredients
- 3 cups frozen hash browns
- ¾ cup shredded Monterey Jack pepper cheese
- 1 cup cubed cooked ham
- ¼ cup chopped green onion
- 4 eggs, well beaten
- 1 (12 oz) can evaporated milk
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp salt
Directions
1. Prep the Dish
Grease a 2-quart rectangular baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
2. Assemble
Spread the frozen hash browns evenly on the bottom.
Sprinkle with cheese, ham, and green onions.
3. Mix the Eggs
In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, evaporated milk, salt, and pepper until smooth.
4. Combine
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the potato and cheese layers.
5. Refrigerate
Cover and refrigerate overnight (or at least 4 hours) to let the flavors soak in.
6. Bake
Preheat oven to 350°F. Bake for 40–50 minutes, or until the center is set and top is lightly golden.
7. Rest and Serve
Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving. It holds its shape beautifully.
Tips for Success
- Use thawed hash browns if you want a slightly softer bottom layer.
- Switch it up: Try bacon, sausage, or even sautéed mushrooms in place of ham.
- Want extra richness? Add an extra egg or a splash of cream to the egg mixture.
- Add color with red bell peppers, spinach, or diced tomatoes.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
Farmer’s Casserole is the star of the brunch table, but here’s how I like to round out the spread:
- Start sweet with these 3-Ingredient Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Breakfast Cookies—they bake fast and please everyone.
- Need a light but festive drink? Try this Blueberry Lemonade for a refreshing contrast.
- Make a shareable starter like this Baked Brie Appetizer—easy, elegant, and perfect with coffee or mimosas.
- Grab-and-go? Prep a batch of Monster Cookie Energy Balls for the road after brunch.
- For even more brunch inspo, check out This One-Pan Breakfast Bake—it’s another low-effort, high-reward favorite.
Storage & Leftovers
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Reheat slices in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
- Freeze cooked portions for up to 2 months—wrap tightly and thaw overnight before reheating.
More Recipes You’ll Love
Whether you’re planning a brunch, a holiday breakfast, or just want something cozy to wake up to, try these favorites next:
- This One-Pan Breakfast Bake
- 3-Ingredient Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Breakfast Cookies
- Baked Brie Appetizer
- Blueberry Lemonade
- No-Bake Monster Cookie Energy Balls
Final Thoughts
Farmer’s Casserole is everything a breakfast bake should be: hearty, comforting, easy to prep, and a total crowd-pleaser. Whether it’s Christmas morning, a lazy Sunday, or a meal prep Monday, this dish brings warmth, flavor, and ease to your table.
Try it, love it, and tag @ChefManiac with your spin—we love seeing what you’re cooking up!
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