Loaded Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Ingredients
3. Instructions
4. Cooking Notes
5. Variations
6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
7. Conclusion

Introduction

Loaded Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole is a comfort food breakfast dish that features layers of hashbrowns, eggs, crispy bacon, veggies, and cheese—all baked to golden perfection. This casserole is ideal for feeding a crowd and can be prepared ahead of time for busy mornings. It’s packed with flavor and is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.

Ingredients

• 1 package (30 oz) frozen shredded hashbrowns, thawed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 lb bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 10 large eggs
• 1 1/2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray or butter.

2. Cook the Vegetables

• In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, red bell pepper, and green bell pepper. Sauté for about 4-5 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened. Remove from heat and set aside.

3. Layer the Hashbrowns

• Spread the thawed hashbrowns evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Season with salt and black pepper.

4. Add the Filling

• Add Cheese and Bacon: Sprinkle 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese and all of the mozzarella cheese evenly over the hashbrowns. Top with the sautéed vegetables and crumbled bacon.

5. Make the Egg Mixture

• In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until well combined.

6. Assemble the Casserole

• Pour the egg mixture evenly over the hashbrown and cheese mixture in the baking dish. Make sure the egg mixture is evenly distributed, covering all the ingredients.

7. Bake

• Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown. If the top begins to brown too quickly, loosely cover it with aluminum foil during the last 10-15 minutes of baking.

8. Serve

• Remove from the oven and let the casserole cool for about 10 minutes before slicing.
• Garnish with chopped green onions and serve warm.

Cooking Notes

• Hashbrowns: Make sure the hashbrowns are thawed and drained of excess moisture to ensure the casserole bakes evenly and has a crispier texture.
• Bacon: Cook the bacon until crispy before adding it to the casserole to avoid sogginess. You can also use pre-cooked bacon to save time.

Variations

• Sausage Hashbrown Casserole: Replace the bacon with cooked and crumbled breakfast sausage for a different flavor.
• Vegetarian Loaded Casserole: Omit the bacon and add extra vegetables such as mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini.
• Southwestern Style: Add 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika and 1/4 teaspoon of chili powder to the egg mixture for a smoky flavor. Top with sliced jalapeños for extra heat.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the casserole the night before, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator overnight. In the morning, just bake it as directed. You may need to add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if it’s going straight from the fridge to the oven.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave until warmed through.

Can I freeze the breakfast casserole?

Yes, you can freeze this casserole. Once it’s completely cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. To serve, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hashbrowns?

Yes, you can use freshly grated potatoes instead of frozen hashbrowns. Make sure to squeeze out as much moisture as possible before using them in the casserole.

What can I serve with Loaded Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole?

This casserole is great on its own, but you can serve it with a simple side of fresh fruit, toast, or a mixed green salad for a balanced meal.

Loaded Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole is a comforting and satisfying dish that’s perfect for feeding a hungry crowd. With crispy hashbrowns, smoky bacon, melty cheese, and fluffy eggs, it’s the ultimate breakfast or brunch dish that everyone will love.

Make this easy casserole for your next family gathering or weekend brunch—it’s sure to become a new favorite!

Let me know if you need more variations or additional tips for this recipe