Introduction
Welcome to a delightful breakfast experience that will warm your heart and fill your stomach with happiness! This Hash Brown Egg Casserole is the perfect dish for lazy Sunday mornings or festive brunch gatherings. It’s loaded with cheesy goodness, hearty hash browns, and a perfectly set egg mixture that sings with flavor. Just imagine slicing through the golden top to reveal a comforting, rich interior, bursting with deliciousness. Let’s dive into making this easy and satisfying casserole that every family member will adore!
Ingredients
- 1 bag (30 ounces) frozen hash browns, thawed
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Optional toppings: diced green onions, more cheese
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 55 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 6-8 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). While it warms, generously grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed hash browns with the melted butter. Stir until everything is beautifully coated and well mixed.
- Press the hash brown mixture evenly into the bottom of the greased baking dish. This step forms the delicious base of your casserole!
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and crispy.
- While the hash browns are baking, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika in a separate bowl until fully blended and creamy.
- Once the hash browns are out of the oven, sprinkle the diced onion and shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
- Carefully pour the egg mixture over the layered hash browns and toppings, ensuring that all of the ingredients are well covered.
- Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 30-35 minutes, or until the eggs have set and the top is lightly golden and inviting.
- Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm with your choice of toppings, such as diced green onions or extra cheese for that added deliciousness!
Notes or Tips
For a little extra zing, consider adding diced bell peppers or cooked bacon to the egg mixture. You can also experiment with different types of cheese to suit your taste! This casserole can be assembled the night before and baked in the morning, making breakfast a breeze.
Cooking Techniques
This recipe highlights the technique of layering flavors and textures. Sautéing onions before adding them can enhance their sweetness, and ensuring you press the hash browns firmly helps them form a comforting base. Watching the casserole in the oven is crucial; you want that perfect golden top without overcooking the eggs!
FAQ
Can I use fresh hash browns instead of frozen?
Absolutely! If using fresh hash browns, just make sure they’re well-drained to avoid excess moisture.
Can this dish be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze this casserole before baking. Just cover it tightly and bake it directly from frozen, adding about 15 minutes to the cooking time.
How do I know when the casserole is done?
The casserole is done when the center is set, and a knife inserted comes out clean. The top should be a lovely golden brown.
Conclusion
Now that you’ve got this delicious Hash Brown Egg Casserole recipe in your back pocket, it’s time to whip it up for your next gathering or simply to enjoy as a cozy breakfast at home. With its comforting textures and mouthwatering taste, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy every flavorful bite!