Cheesy Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole With Ham Recipe

There's nothing quite like waking up to the comforting aroma of a Cheesy Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole with Ham baking in the oven. This warm, hearty dish combines crispy hashbrowns, melty cheese, and savory ham into the ultimate breakfast comfort food.

I first discovered this recipe while looking for a way to use up leftover holiday ham, and it quickly became a staple in my kitchen. Whether you're feeding a hungry crowd or prepping breakfast for the week, this easy casserole is sure to be a hit.

Why You'll Love This Cheesy Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole

Get ready to add this breakfast casserole to your list of go-to morning meals! Not only is it delicious, but it’s also packed with perks.

First, it's incredibly easy to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have this dish ready for the oven in minutes.

It’s also perfect for feeding a crowd. Whether you're hosting brunch or meal-prepping for the week, this casserole serves multiple people and reheats beautifully.

The combination of flavors and textures is unbeatable. Crispy hashbrowns, creamy eggs, gooey cheese, and smoky ham all come together in one bite to create a rich and satisfying breakfast.

Best of all, this casserole is highly customizable. You can swap out the ham for bacon or sausage, add veggies, or experiment with different cheeses to make it your own.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Cheesy Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Here’s what makes each component shine:

Hashbrowns serve as the base of this dish, providing a crispy, golden layer that holds up well under the eggs and cheese. You can use frozen shredded hashbrowns or even diced potatoes for a chunkier texture.

Ham adds a smoky, salty depth of flavor. Leftover holiday ham works perfectly, but you can also use deli ham or even cooked bacon for a twist.

Eggs create the rich, custardy structure of the casserole, binding all the ingredients together. Be sure to whisk them well for a light and fluffy texture.

Cheese is the star of the show! A mix of sharp cheddar and mozzarella gives the best balance of flavor and meltiness. Feel free to experiment with Swiss, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack for a little spice.

You'll also need milk and seasonings like salt, pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder to enhance the flavors. A dash of hot sauce or paprika can add an extra kick.

A large baking dish is the only special equipment needed, ensuring even baking and easy serving.

How To Make This Cheesy Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole

Creating this delicious casserole is easier than you think! Just follow these simple steps for a flawless dish every time.

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F and greasing a 9x13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. If using frozen hashbrowns, make sure they’re fully thawed and patted dry to avoid excess moisture.

Spread the hashbrowns evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. For an extra crispy base, you can pre-bake them for 10 minutes before adding the other ingredients.

Next, layer on the ham evenly over the hashbrowns. This ensures every bite gets a little bit of that smoky, savory flavor.

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and seasonings until smooth. Pour this mixture over the hashbrowns and ham, letting it seep into all the layers.

Finally, sprinkle the cheese generously on top. Cover with foil and bake for 35 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Let the casserole cool for about 5 minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy!

Storage Options

If you have leftovers, don’t worry—this casserole stores beautifully! Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.

For short-term storage, keep it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or pop the whole dish back in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

For longer storage, you can freeze the casserole for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as usual.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility! Here are a few ways to switch things up:

Swap the ham for sausage or bacon if you want a different type of protein. Cook the meat beforehand to ensure the best flavor and texture.

Add vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or spinach for extra color and nutrition. Sauté them first to release moisture before adding them to the casserole.

Experiment with different cheeses! Pepper jack adds spice, Swiss gives a nutty taste, and gouda brings a rich, smoky flavor.

Make it dairy-free by using plant-based cheese and milk alternatives. Just be sure to use an unsweetened milk substitute for the best results.

For a low-carb version, try substituting the hashbrowns with cauliflower rice. It won’t be quite as crispy, but it will still be delicious.

However you make it, this Cheesy Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole with Ham is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Try it once, and you’ll find yourself coming back to it time and time again!

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