Breakfast casseroles truly are a culinary gem, offering both convenience and delectable flavors that are a hit in our household, especially when we have company or the kids have sleepovers (sans the spicy cheese, of course!). These casseroles shine as a crowd-pleaser during brunch gatherings, and I love to complement them with a refreshing fruit salad featuring a medley of seasonal delights like strawberries, blueberries, peaches, and melon.
When it comes to preparing the casserole, I’ve experimented with different approaches. While both versions, using frozen hash browns and frying them until crispy, yield delicious results, I have come to appreciate the added texture and depth of flavor when I take the extra step to get the hash browns crispy before layering them at the bottom of the baking dish. It’s a small detail that makes a big difference in the overall experience.
The choice of using frozen hash browns over fresh potatoes has proven to be a wise decision, as it ensures a hassle-free process and a consistent result. Shredding fresh potatoes can lead to undesirable discoloration and a different texture once the casserole is baked. So, sticking with frozen hash browns guarantees a flawless and visually appealing presentation.
One of the things I adore about breakfast casseroles is the endless possibilities for customization. From various meat options to an array of vegetables and cheese choices, you can get as creative as you desire, tailoring the casserole to suit your personal taste preferences.
So, whether you opt for a classic combination or venture into culinary innovation, the beauty of breakfast casseroles lies in their versatility and ability to please a variety of palates. As you embark on your culinary journey with these delightful casseroles, let your imagination run wild, and embrace the joy of savoring a breakfast dish that is both convenient and utterly delicious. Get creative, enjoy the process, and relish every mouthful of this breakfast delight!
Ingredients
6 cups of frozen, shredded hash brown potatoes
1 1/2 cups of shredded Pepperjack cheese
6 slices of diced cooked Canadian bacon.
2 sliced green onions.
2 (12 cans) of evaporated milk – regular or 2%
8 large eggs, beaten – or, 2 cups egg substitute
1/4 tsp. of salt.
1/4 tsp. of black pepper.
Directions
Grease a 3-quart rectangular baking dish.
Arrange potatoes evenly in the bottom of the dish.
Sprinkle with cheese, ham, and green onion.
In a large mixing bowl, combine eggs, milk, salt, and pepper.
Pour egg mixture over potato mixture in dish.
At this point, you can cover and refrigerate until ready to bake (several hours or overnight).
When ready to bake
Preheat oven to 350°F.
Bake, uncovered, for 1 hour and 15 minutes or until the center appears set. If baking after casserole has been chilled, you will need to increase baking time to 1 hour and 30 minutes.
Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
• Use other types of cheese if you like – Swiss, Colby, Monterey, and Sharp Cheddar are great options.
• Add a bit of your favorite hot sauce to the egg mixture for a little kick.
• Instead of Canadian Bacon, you can use cooked breakfast sausage patties crumbled.
• If you prefer, you can substitute regular milk for the evaporated milk. I would stick with whole milk to prevent the casserole from being watery.
• You may also like using frozen Potatoes O’Brien with peppers for a variation.
• Vegetables that go well are mushrooms, chopped spinach, and chopped broccoli.
• Freezing Baked Casserole: When casserole is completely cooled, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It will last up to 2 months. When you are ready to bake, let the casserole thaw in the refrigerator. Remove the layer of plastic wrap and bake at 350° F for 10-15 minutes – covering with foil will prevent the top from over-browning.
Conclusion:
Farmer’s Casserole is a delightful and hearty dish that captures the essence of a bountiful farm-to-table breakfast. This recipe brings together the wholesome flavors of eggs, potatoes, ham, and cheese in a harmonious union that is both comforting and satisfying.
The convenience and versatility of Farmer’s Casserole make it a favorite in households everywhere, whether it’s served for a leisurely family breakfast, a brunch gathering with friends, or even as a crowd-pleaser during sleepovers and weekend get-togethers.
The balance of ingredients, from the creamy eggs to the savory ham and the comforting potatoes, creates a symphony of flavors that tantalize the taste buds and leave a lasting impression. The casserole’s ability to effortlessly feed a group makes it a go-to choice for those special occasions when you want to gather your loved ones around the table and share in the joy of a delicious and nourishing meal.
As you prepare Farmer’s Casserole, you have the freedom to customize it to your liking, making it your very own signature dish. Whether you choose to add some colorful bell peppers or a sprinkle of your favorite herbs, the recipe’s versatility allows you to cater to your family’s taste preferences and dietary needs.
Embrace the spirit of the farm kitchen and relish the comforting embrace of this Farmer’s Casserole. Let it warm your soul and create lasting memories around the breakfast table. Whether you’re enjoying a lazy Sunday morning or celebrating a special occasion, this casserole is the perfect addition to your breakfast repertoire, bringing the rustic charm of the farm right to your home. So, savor the goodness, cherish the moments shared with loved ones, and enjoy the wholesome pleasure of Farmer’s Casserole.