If you have ever craved a breakfast that feels like a warm hug on a chilly morning, this Bacon, Egg, and Hash Brown Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a hearty, comforting dish where crispy bacon, fluffy eggs, and tender hash browns come together in perfect harmony, all smothered with melted cheddar cheese. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or planning a cozy family brunch, this casserole hits all the right notes of savory goodness, texture, and satisfying flavor in a way that feels like a celebration of breakfast favorites all in one dish.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Bacon, Egg, and Hash Brown Casserole Recipe comes alive from simple, everyday ingredients that combine to create an irresistible meal. Each component plays an essential role, whether it’s the crispy texture from bacon, the creamy richness from eggs and cheese, or the comforting base of hash browns.
- Frozen hash browns: Using thawed hash browns ensures an even bake and a tender yet slightly crispy base texture.
- Large eggs: Eggs provide the binding element, bringing the casserole together into a fluffy, custardy delight.
- Milk: A splash of milk lightens the eggs and contributes to the creamy texture.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Cheddar’s sharp, melty goodness adds richness and a golden crust on top.
- Bacon slices: Crispy, chopped bacon delivers that iconic smoky, salty punch everyone loves.
- Garlic powder and onion powder: These mild seasonings add depth and savory warmth without overwhelming the main flavors.
- Salt and pepper: Freshly seasoned throughout, these classic staples enhance every ingredient’s flavor.
- Optional garnish—chopped green onions or parsley: A pop of color and fresh flavor perfect for finishing touches.
How to Make Bacon, Egg, and Hash Brown Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prep the oven and bacon
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish—this ensures easy release after baking. Next, cook the bacon until it’s perfectly crispy, then drain and chop it into bite-sized pieces. This step builds the casserole’s smoky backbone and creates delightful texture contrasts.
Step 2: Layer the hash browns and seasoning
Spread the thawed hash browns evenly in your prepared baking dish. Season them generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. This seasoning layer is key for infusing the potatoes with savory flavor, which will carry through when baked.
Step 3: Add bacon and cheese
Sprinkle the chopped, cooked bacon and shredded cheddar cheese evenly across the hash browns. This layering ensures every bite has that perfect combination of crispy bacon bits and a gooey cheese layer that melts beautifully into the potatoes.
Step 4: Whisk the egg mixture and pour
In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until fully combined and slightly frothy; then season the mixture with salt and pepper. Pour this custardy blend evenly over the casserole. Press down lightly to make sure it seeps into all the little crevices, binding the dish as it bakes.
Step 5: Bake to golden perfection
Place the dish in the oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the eggs have set and the surface turns a gorgeous golden brown. You will know it’s done when the center is firm and the aroma fills your kitchen with pure breakfast joy.
Step 6: Cool and garnish
Let the casserole cool for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing. This resting time allows the layers to settle so you can cut clean slices that hold together beautifully. Optionally, sprinkle chopped green onions or fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and a fresh twist.
How to Serve Bacon, Egg, and Hash Brown Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Lightly chopped green onions or fresh parsley add a vibrant, fresh contrast that brightens the rich flavors. They’re not just decorative—these garnishes provide a subtle crunch and herbaceous aroma that elevate every bite.
Side Dishes
Serve this casserole alongside a crisp fruit salad or roasted veggies to balance the meal and add variety. A side of warm buttered toast or freshly baked biscuits is also wonderful for soaking up any cheesy, eggy goodness left on the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun brunch party, try serving the casserole in individual ramekins or muffin tins for easy grab-and-go portions. You can also sprinkle extra cheese and bacon on top just before serving for a decadent finishing touch that will impress your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s a great make-ahead option for busy mornings when you want a quick but satisfying breakfast.
Freezing
You can freeze the casserole before baking by tightly wrapping the dish in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge and then bake as directed. This convenience makes it perfect for prepping meals in advance.
Reheating
Reheat individual slices in the microwave until warmed through, or pop the whole dish back in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes to refresh that golden top and creamy texture. Just be sure to cover it loosely with foil if reheating in the oven to prevent over-browning.
FAQs
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?
Yes, you can shred fresh potatoes, but be sure to rinse and dry them well to remove excess starch and moisture. This helps prevent the casserole from becoming too soggy and ensures a crispier texture.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the bacon or substitute it with plant-based bacon alternatives or sautéed mushrooms for a smoky flavor without the meat.
Can I prepare this dish in advance for a crowd?
Yes, this casserole is fantastic for feeding a large group. You can assemble it the night before and bake it fresh in the morning or warm it up during brunch. It saves time and lets you enjoy the company instead of cooking at the last minute.
What type of cheese works best for this casserole?
Cheddar cheese is classic for its sharp flavor and great melting quality, but feel free to experiment with Monterey Jack, Colby, or even a mix of cheeses to suit your taste.
How can I make the casserole gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free, given that you use plain hash browns and check that any seasoning ingredients are gluten-free.
Final Thoughts
The Bacon, Egg, and Hash Brown Casserole Recipe is honestly one of those dishes that feel like a gift to your taste buds and your morning routine. It is simple, delicious, and undeniably satisfying, whether you’re starting the day or serving brunch with friends. I encourage you to try it out, and soon enough, this hearty casserole will become a beloved staple in your kitchen as it has in mine.
Print
Bacon, Egg, and Hash Brown Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Breakfast Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Bacon, Egg, and Hash Brown Casserole is a hearty and comforting breakfast dish perfect for family gatherings or weekend brunch. It combines crispy hash browns, savory bacon, fluffy eggs, and melted cheddar cheese baked to golden perfection. Easy to prepare and satisfying to eat, this casserole is sure to become a breakfast favorite.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 (30 oz) bag frozen hash browns, thawed
- 12 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 8 slices bacon, cooked and chopped
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Garnish
- Chopped green onions or parsley
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
- Cook Bacon: Cook the bacon slices in a skillet until crispy. Drain excess fat and chop the bacon into small pieces.
- Layer Hash Browns: Spread the thawed hash browns evenly in the prepared baking dish. Season them with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder for enhanced flavor.
- Add Bacon and Cheese: Evenly sprinkle the chopped bacon and shredded cheddar cheese on top of the hash browns.
- Mix Egg Mixture: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk. Season with a bit of salt and pepper to taste.
- Pour Egg Mixture: Pour the egg and milk mixture evenly over the casserole ingredients in the baking dish, pressing lightly to ensure everything is coated.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 45–50 minutes until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown.
- Rest and Garnish: Allow the casserole to cool for 5–10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped green onions or parsley if desired.
Notes
- Thaw the hash browns ahead of time for even baking and texture.
- For a crispier top, broil the casserole for the last 2–3 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
- Feel free to swap cheddar for your favorite cheese like mozzarella or Monterey Jack.
- This casserole can be prepared the night before; just cover it and refrigerate, then bake in the morning.
- To make it lower fat, use reduced-fat cheese and turkey bacon.
