Easy Bacon, Egg, and Hashbrown Casserole

Easy Bacon, Egg, and Hashbrown Casserole is the ultimate breakfast or brunch dish, perfect for feeding a crowd or prepping for the week ahead. Packed with crispy bacon, fluffy eggs, golden hashbrowns, and gooey melted cheese, this casserole brings together all your breakfast favorites in one dish. Whether you’re hosting a holiday brunch, preparing for a busy weekday morning, or simply craving a hearty breakfast, this recipe is as versatile as it is satisfying.

The beauty of this casserole lies in its simplicity. With minimal prep and just one dish, it’s easy to throw together and even easier to customize. Add veggies, swap out the bacon for sausage, or experiment with different cheeses to make it your own. Plus, it’s make-ahead friendly, so you can enjoy a stress-free morning while the oven does the work.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and Satisfying: Combines protein, carbs, and cheese for a complete, filling meal.
• Perfect for Crowds: Serves 8-10, making it ideal for gatherings or meal prep.
• Easy to Make: Simple steps and common ingredients make this recipe accessible for any home cook.
• Customizable: Add vegetables, try different meats, or switch up the cheese for endless possibilities.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep the casserole the night before and bake fresh in the morning.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: 8 servings
• Serving Size: 1 slice

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 450
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Protein: 18g
• Fat: 32g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 2g

Ingredients

For the Casserole:

• 1 (30 oz) bag frozen shredded hashbrowns, thawed
• 8 large eggs
• 1 1/2 cups whole milk (or half-and-half for extra creaminess)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 10 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional, for garnish)

Optional Add-Ins:

• 1 cup diced bell peppers (red, green, or yellow)
• 1 cup sautéed mushrooms
• 1 cup cooked breakfast sausage or ham, diced
• 1/2 cup diced jalapeños for a spicy kick

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or butter to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Hashbrown Base

1. Spread the thawed hashbrowns evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
2. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika for added flavor.

Step 3: Mix the Egg Mixture

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

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

1. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese over the hashbrowns.
2. Add the crumbled bacon evenly over the cheese.
3. Pour the egg mixture over the bacon and hashbrowns, ensuring it spreads evenly across the dish.
4. Top with the remaining cheddar cheese and all of the mozzarella cheese.

Step 5: Bake

1. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
2. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the eggs are set.
3. To check for doneness, insert a knife into the center of the casserole; it should come out clean.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

1. Let the casserole cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
2. Garnish with chopped green onions or parsley, if desired.
3. Serve warm and enjoy!

Ingredient Background

Hashbrowns:

Shredded hashbrowns create a crispy, golden base for the casserole. For an extra crispy layer, you can lightly sauté the hashbrowns in a skillet before assembling the casserole.

Bacon:

Crispy bacon adds a smoky, savory flavor that pairs perfectly with the eggs and potatoes. For convenience, use pre-cooked bacon, or cook it fresh and crumble it for the casserole.

Eggs:

Eggs are the star of this dish, providing structure and creaminess. The egg mixture holds all the ingredients together while delivering that classic breakfast flavor.

Cheese:

Cheddar cheese provides a sharp, tangy flavor, while mozzarella adds a creamy, melty texture. Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like pepper jack, Swiss, or Gruyère for variety.

Technique Tips

1. Thaw the Hashbrowns: Ensure the hashbrowns are fully thawed and patted dry to prevent excess moisture, which can make the casserole soggy.
2. Season in Layers: Season each layer of the casserole to ensure the dish is flavorful from top to bottom.
3. Cook Bacon Until Crispy: Crispy bacon adds a nice texture contrast to the creamy eggs and cheese. If you like softer bacon, you can slightly undercook it before adding it to the casserole.
4. Cover While Baking: Covering the casserole with foil during the first half of baking helps the eggs cook evenly without over-browning the top.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

1. Individual Portions: Assemble and bake the casserole in muffin tins for grab-and-go breakfast portions.
2. Breakfast Bowls: Serve scoops of the casserole in bowls, topped with salsa, avocado slices, or sour cream for a Tex-Mex twist.
3. Mini Casseroles: Divide the mixture into smaller baking dishes for personalized servings, perfect for brunch gatherings.

Additional Tips for Success

• Prep Ahead: Assemble the casserole the night before, cover, and refrigerate. In the morning, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
• Let It Rest: Allow the casserole to cool slightly after baking. This helps it set and makes slicing easier.
• Customize It: Use your favorite breakfast ingredients, such as diced ham, sautéed spinach, or even leftover roasted vegetables, to make the dish uniquely yours.

Recipe Variations

1. Tex-Mex Breakfast Casserole: Add diced jalapeños, black beans, and salsa to the mix, and use pepper jack cheese for a spicy kick. Serve with avocado slices and sour cream.
2. Vegetarian Version: Omit the bacon and add plenty of vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, and spinach. Use a combination of cheddar and feta cheese for added flavor.
3. Meat Lover’s Casserole: Combine bacon, sausage, and ham for a protein-packed breakfast that will satisfy even the heartiest appetites.

Freezing and Storage

Refrigeration Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Proper storage helps retain the freshness and flavor of the casserole. To reheat, use the microwave by warming individual portions for 1–2 minutes, checking for even heating, or opt for the oven for a more consistent texture. For oven reheating, cover the casserole with foil to prevent drying out and bake at 350°F for 15–20 minutes or until heated through.

Freezing This casserole is perfect for freezing, making it a fantastic choice for meal prep or busy weeknights. To freeze individual portions, divide the casserole into airtight freezer-safe containers or wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. For freezing the entire dish, ensure it is tightly wrapped to prevent freezer burn. The casserole can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months without compromising quality. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator to preserve texture and flavor, then reheat using the microwave or oven as described above. If reheating from frozen without thawing, bake in the oven at 350°F for about 30–40 minutes, covered, until heated through.

Tips for Optimal Storage

• Label all containers with the date to ensure the casserole is used within its best storage window.
• Avoid refreezing thawed portions to maintain texture and safety.
• Always reheat thoroughly until the casserole reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.

Healthier Twist Ideas

1. Use Turkey Bacon: Replace regular bacon with turkey bacon for a leaner protein option.
2. Lighten the Cheese: Use reduced-fat cheese or reduce the overall amount to cut calories and fat.
3. Add More Veggies: Incorporate extra vegetables like zucchini, kale, or tomatoes to boost fiber and nutrients.
4. Swap Whole Milk: Replace whole milk with unsweetened almond milk or skim milk for a lighter casserole.

Serving Suggestions for Events

Weekend Brunch

Serve the casserole alongside fresh fruit salad, yogurt parfaits, and mimosas for a complete brunch spread that everyone will enjoy.

Holiday Breakfast

Make this casserole the centerpiece of a holiday breakfast buffet, surrounded by pastries, muffins, and freshly brewed coffee.

Meal Prep

Portion out slices into meal prep containers for quick, easy breakfasts throughout the week. Add a side of fresh fruit or a small salad to complete the meal.

Special Equipment

• 9×13-Inch Baking Dish: Ideal for evenly cooking the casserole.
• Large Mixing Bowl: Perfect for whisking together the egg mixture.
• Aluminum Foil: Necessary for covering the casserole during the first half of baking.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hashbrowns?

Yes! Shred fresh potatoes, then rinse and pat them dry to remove excess starch. This ensures they cook evenly and don’t become gummy.

2. Can I substitute the bacon?

Absolutely. Use cooked sausage, diced ham, or even a plant-based bacon alternative for a different flavor profile.

3. How can I make this casserole dairy-free?

Use almond milk or oat milk in place of whole milk and substitute dairy-free cheese for the cheddar and mozzarella.

4. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, simply use a larger baking dish and adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure the eggs set properly.

5. Can I make this casserole in advance?

Yes! Assemble the casserole the night before, cover tightly, and refrigerate. In the morning, bake as directed, adding 5-10 minutes to the cooking time if necessary.

6. What can I serve with this casserole?

Pair it with a green salad, toast, or fruit for a balanced meal. For a heartier spread, serve with pancakes or waffles on the side.

Conclusion

Easy Bacon, Egg, and Hashbrown Casserole is a hearty, versatile dish that’s as satisfying as it is simple to make. With layers of crispy hashbrowns, smoky bacon, fluffy eggs, and melty cheese, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Perfect for brunch, meal prep, or family breakfasts, this casserole delivers big flavor with minimal effort. Whether you customize it with your favorite ingredients or stick to the classic version, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Ready to whip up a breakfast everyone will love? Let’s get started!

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