Hash Brown Egg Casserole: The Perfect Breakfast or Brunch Dish Recipe

When you’re craving a dish that’s comforting, crowd-pleasing, and full of flavor, this Hash Brown Egg Casserole: The Perfect Breakfast or Brunch Dish always hits the spot. Imagine golden hash browns baked with fluffy eggs, melty cheddar, savory sausage or bacon, and colorful veggies—all brought together in a single pan. Whether you’re hosting brunch, feeding a family on a busy morning, or meal prepping for the week ahead, this casserole is your go-to for delicious versatility. It’s hearty, simple to assemble, and guaranteed to make everyone at the table happy.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this recipe plays a starring role in crafting the perfect bite—crisp edges, a rich custardy interior, a pop of color, and loads of cheesy goodness. The lineup isn’t complicated, but each component adds flavor, texture, or visual appeal you’ll absolutely love.

• Frozen shredded hash browns (20-ounce package, thawed): These form the hearty base and soak up all the eggy, cheesy goodness for a satisfying, golden crust.
• Olive oil or butter (1 tablespoon): For sautéing and lending the veggies extra richness plus a hint of flavor.
• Small onion (finely chopped): Adds a gentle sweetness and subtle crunch, enhancing every bite.
• Red bell pepper (diced): Brings gorgeous color and a mild, crisp flavor that complements the other ingredients.
• Cooked breakfast sausage or crumbled bacon (1 cup, optional): Infuses the casserole with savory, smoky notes—leave it out for a vegetarian take, or play with your favorite breakfast meats!
• Large eggs (8): The foundation that binds everything together into a soft, custardy bake.
• Milk (1 cup): Creates lightness and creaminess throughout the casserole.
• Garlic powder (½ teaspoon): Adds a subtle, aromatic kick without overwhelming the flavors.
• Salt (½ teaspoon): Essential for enhancing all the individual flavors.
• Black pepper (¼ teaspoon): Gives just a hint of warmth to round out the taste.
• Shredded cheddar cheese (1 ½ cups): Provides gooey, melty richness and that classic cheesy crust on top.
• Chopped fresh parsley (2 tablespoons, optional for garnish): Scatters brightness and a touch of fresh flavor across your finished casserole.

How to Make Hash Brown Egg Casserole: The Perfect Breakfast or Brunch Dish

Step 1: Prep Your Baking Dish and Oven

Set the stage for easy cleanup and perfect cooking by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray so those golden edges release without a fuss. This is a crucial step that ensures your Hash Brown Egg Casserole: The Perfect Breakfast or Brunch Dish comes out picture-perfect every time.

Step 2: Sauté the Veggies (and Breakfast Meat)

Warm your olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat, then toss in your chopped onion and red bell pepper. Sauté for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until everything’s soft and fragrant. If you’re opting in with sausage or bacon, now’s the moment to add it—stir and heat it through, blending all those savory notes together. The smell alone is pure happiness!

Step 3: Whisk Up the Egg Mixture

Crack your eggs into a big mixing bowl, add the milk, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper, and whisk until completely combined. You’re looking for a smooth, pale yellow mixture that’s ready to take on all those tasty fillings. It’s this mixture that will puff up as it bakes, trapping the hash browns and cheese in every delicious forkful.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Add the thawed hash browns right into the egg mixture. Tip in the sautéed veggies (and your meat of choice, if using), along with 1 cup of that shredded cheddar. Stir it all together so every bite has a bit of everything. Pour this hearty mix into your prepared dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup cheese over the top—it melts into a bubbly, golden lid that’s impossible to resist.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Slide your casserole into the oven and bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the center is set and the edges turn a beautiful golden brown. (You’ll know it’s ready when the top is lightly puffed with little pockets of gooey cheese poking through.) Let it cool for 5–10 minutes after baking. This brief wait makes it easier to slice and allows the flavors to settle together perfectly in your Hash Brown Egg Casserole: The Perfect Breakfast or Brunch Dish.

How to Serve Hash Brown Egg Casserole: The Perfect Breakfast or Brunch Dish

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of green and lovely freshness to the dish. If you love a little heat, try dusting your squares with a bit of smoked paprika or topping with a few sliced green onions. For a luxurious finish, serve with a dollop of sour cream or a spoonful of salsa on the side.

Side Dishes

This casserole is a star on its own, but pairing it with other breakfast classics makes your meal even more satisfying. Try a crisp green salad with lemony vinaigrette, ripe fruit salad, or a basket of flaky pastries. For heartier appetites, serve alongside crispy bacon strips or juicy breakfast sausages.

Creative Ways to Present

For gatherings, cut the casserole into neat squares and arrange them on a platter with herbs scattered over the top—simple, pretty, and perfect for buffets. Want a weekend wow factor? Serve each slice over fresh arugula or spinach leaves and drizzle with hollandaise for an elevated brunch vibe. For meal prep, tuck slices into individual containers for grab-and-go breakfasts throughout the week.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover casserole keeps beautifully! Just cool the squares completely, then transfer to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, and you’ve got a ready-made breakfast or lunch that reheats like a dream.

Freezing

If you want to stash a batch for busy mornings, let the cooked Hash Brown Egg Casserole: The Perfect Breakfast or Brunch Dish cool completely. Cut into individual portions, wrap each tightly, then freeze in a storage bag or container for up to 2 months. This makes breakfast as easy as reaching into your freezer!

Reheating

Warm up slices in the microwave for about a minute, or reheat (covered) in a 350°F oven until hot. Add a fresh sprinkle of cheese or herbs just before serving to revive that just-baked flavor and look.

FAQs

Can I make Hash Brown Egg Casserole: The Perfect Breakfast or Brunch Dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply skip the sausage or bacon, or swap in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or extra peppers to bulk up the veggie factor. The dish stays just as hearty and delicious.

What’s the best way to thaw frozen hash browns?

Thaw them overnight in the fridge for best texture, or spread them on a plate and microwave in short bursts until defrosted. Just pat them dry if they’re a little wet before adding to the casserole.

Can I assemble it the night before?

Yes, and it’s one of the reasons people call this Hash Brown Egg Casserole: The Perfect Breakfast or Brunch Dish a lifesaver! Prepare everything, cover your dish, and refrigerate overnight. Simply bake straight from the fridge in the morning, adding 5–10 extra minutes to account for the chill.

How do I know when it’s fully baked?

The edges will be golden, the center set (not jiggly), and a knife inserted in the middle should come out clean or with little melted cheese, but no liquid egg. Give it a few minutes to rest after baking so it slices neatly.

Can I use a different cheese?

Absolutely—cheddar is classic, but feel free to experiment with Monterey Jack, pepper jack for a spicy kick, or gouda for extra richness. Mixing in a handful of parmesan is fantastic, too!

Final Thoughts

Truly, Hash Brown Egg Casserole: The Perfect Breakfast or Brunch Dish is the small effort, big payoff recipe you’ll want to make again and again. It’s warm, cozy, and designed for sharing—the best kind of meal. Give it a try soon, and get ready for happy faces around your table!

Print