Weekends are for leisurely brunches, and what better way to start your day than with a warm, comforting, and utterly delicious Ham and Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole? This easy recipe is perfect for feeding a crowd, whether it's family or friends. It’s a make-ahead dish, meaning you can prepare it the night before and pop it in the oven in the morning for a stress-free weekend breakfast. Get ready to impress your loved ones with this simple yet spectacular dish! This recipe is packed with flavor, combines the best of breakfast staples and is sure to become a new family favorite. It's one of those best recipes that's both satisfying and easy to customize.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds hash browns, thawed if frozen
- 1 cup chopped cooked ham
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 4 large eggs
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
Instructions:
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Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. This step ensures your casserole doesn't stick and allows for easy serving.
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Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, gently combine the thawed hash browns, cooked ham, cheddar cheese, milk, eggs, green onions, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Don't overmix; you just want everything to be evenly distributed. Overmixing can make the casserole tough.
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Bake: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until golden brown and heated through. The cooking time might vary slightly depending on your oven. Check for doneness with a toothpick – it should come out clean.
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Rest & Serve: Let the casserole rest for about 10 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows it to set slightly, making it easier to cut and serve neat portions.
Cooking Tips for a Perfect Casserole:
- Use leftover ham: This recipe is a fantastic way to use up leftover ham from holiday meals or other occasions, reducing food waste and adding delicious flavor.
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Ensure you're using a 9x13 inch baking dish, as this is the optimal size for this recipe. Using a smaller dish will lead to overfilling and uneven cooking.
- Customize your cheese: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. Monterey Jack, Colby, or a blend of cheeses would all work wonderfully.
- Add veggies: Boost the nutritional value and add extra flavor by incorporating some sautéed bell peppers, onions, or spinach.
- Make it ahead: Prepare the casserole the night before and refrigerate it. Add about 10-15 minutes to the baking time when baking from cold. This makes for a truly easy and stress-free breakfast.
Variations:
- Spicy Ham and Hashbrown Casserole: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a kick.
- Vegetarian Hashbrown Casserole: Omit the ham and add sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, and onions for a delicious vegetarian option.
- Cheesy Bacon and Hashbrown Casserole: Swap the ham for bacon for a smoky twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
- Protein: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 25-30g
This recipe is a delicious and easy way to enjoy a hearty and satisfying breakfast or brunch. Perfect for busy week mornings or a relaxed weekend treat, this quick dinner idea is sure to be a hit with everyone. Enjoy!