Cheesy Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole With Ham Recipe

Hearty Cheesy Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole With Ham Recipe

Mornings shine brighter with a creamy hashbrown breakfast casserole that combines salty ham and melted cheese into pure comfort.

Crispy potato layers mingle with savory protein chunks in this hearty morning delight.

Breakfast dreams come alive when you take your first warm, gooey bite.

Salt and pepper dance through each rich, golden forkful of goodness.

Weekend brunches feel special with this simple yet impressive dish that everyone craves.

Minimal effort creates maximum flavor, making you the breakfast hero at your table.

Your family will beg for seconds of this crowd-pleasing morning masterpiece.

Why Cheesy Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole Wins

  • Boost Weekend Brunch: Perfect crowd-pleasing dish that transforms ordinary mornings into delightful family gatherings with minimal kitchen effort.
  • Customize with Ease: Swap ham for bacon, sausage, or vegetables to match personal taste preferences and dietary needs without complicated recipe modifications.
  • Quick Prep Champion: Minimal chopping and mixing required, making this breakfast casserole an ideal solution for busy mornings or last-minute entertaining.
  • Hearty Comfort Meal: Packed with protein and satisfying ingredients that deliver a warm, filling breakfast guaranteed to energize everyone at the table.

Ingredients for Cheesy Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole

Main Protein:
  • Ham: Diced meat that adds savory flavor and protein to the breakfast casserole.
Starch Base:
  • Hashbrowns: Shredded potatoes that create a crispy and hearty foundation for the casserole.
Dairy Components:
  • Shredded Cheese: Melts to create a creamy and rich topping for the dish.
  • Milk, Eggs: Provide structure, moisture, and binding for the casserole.
Seasoning Blend:
  • Garlic Powder, Onion Powder: Add depth of flavor and aromatic complexity to the dish.
  • Salt, Pepper: Enhance and balance the overall taste of the casserole.
Optional Garnish:
  • Green Onions: Fresh herbs that add a light, crisp finishing touch to the baked dish.

How to Bake Cheesy Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Heat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

Generously coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Create the Base Layer

Spread frozen hashbrowns across the entire bottom of the baking dish in an even, flat layer.

This creates a crispy potato foundation for your breakfast masterpiece.

Step 3: Add Savory Protein and Cheese

Scatter these ingredients over the hashbrowns:
  • Diced ham
  • Shredded cheddar cheese
  • Shredded mozzarella cheese

The combination will create a mouthwatering flavor explosion.

Step 4: Mix the Creamy Egg Blend

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together these ingredients until smooth:
  • Whole eggs
  • Milk
  • Garlic powder
  • Onion powder
  • Salt
  • Black pepper

Ensure all ingredients are fully incorporated for a consistent texture.

Step 5: Pour and Combine

Carefully pour the egg mixture over the hashbrowns, ham, and cheese.

Gently shake the pan to help the eggs settle evenly throughout the dish.

Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection

Place the casserole in the preheated oven.

Bake for 45-50 minutes until the eggs are completely set and the top turns a beautiful golden brown color.

Step 7: Rest and Garnish

Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes.

This helps the casserole set and makes cutting easier.

Sprinkle chopped green onions on top for a fresh, zesty finish.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Cut into generous squares and serve hot.

This breakfast casserole is perfect for weekend gatherings, family breakfasts, or meal prep.

Tips for Creamy Hashbrown Casserole

  • Pat thawed hashbrowns dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture and ensure a crispy texture.
  • Mix different cheese varieties like cheddar, mozzarella, or pepper jack for complex flavor profiles.
  • Add cooked bacon bits or crumbled sausage for extra protein and deeper savory notes.
  • Assemble the casserole night before, refrigerate, and bake directly from the fridge for convenient morning preparation.
  • Use turkey ham or plant-based ham for lower-fat version, and substitute dairy-free milk for lactose-sensitive diets.

Flavor Twists for Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole

  • Vegetarian Veggie Delight: Replace ham with roasted bell peppers, spinach, and mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian version packed with colorful vegetables and protein.
  • Gluten-Free Friendly Option: Use gluten-free hashbrowns and ensure all seasonings are certified gluten-free to make this recipe safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
  • Spicy Southwest Spin: Add diced jalapeños, swap regular cheese for pepper jack, and sprinkle chili powder to create a zesty, southwestern-inspired breakfast casserole with extra kick.
  • Low-Carb Cauliflower Swap: Substitute hashbrowns with riced cauliflower to reduce carbohydrates while maintaining the same creamy, cheesy texture and flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions for Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole

  • Brunch Centerpiece: Serve this hearty casserole as the star of your weekend gathering, letting guests scoop generous portions onto their plates.
  • Morning Meal Companion: Pair with fresh fruit salad or crispy bacon strips to balance the rich, cheesy flavors and add nutritional variety.
  • Quick Weekday Warrior: Slice into individual portions and wrap for grab-and-go breakfast during busy mornings, perfect for reheating in the microwave.
  • Potluck Perfection: Transport this crowd-pleasing dish to family reunions or community breakfasts, knowing it travels well and stays deliciously warm.

Best Storage Tips for Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days, ensuring the casserole is completely cooled before sealing.
  • Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Place in a freezer-safe container to prevent freezer burn.
  • Place individual portions on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat for 1-2 minutes until warmed through. Stir halfway to ensure even heating.
  • Preheat oven to 350F, cover casserole with foil to prevent drying, and warm for 15-20 minutes until heated completely. Remove foil for the last 5 minutes to crisp the top.

FAQs

  • Can I use frozen hashbrowns for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen hashbrowns. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well to prevent excess moisture in the casserole.

  • Is it possible to make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole the night before and refrigerate. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.

  • What other meats can I substitute for ham?

You can easily swap ham with cooked bacon, sausage, or even diced chicken for a different flavor profile.

  • Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, simply omit the ham and add extra vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms to keep the casserole hearty and flavorful.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Cheesy Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole With Ham Recipe

Cheesy Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole With Ham Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 26 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

Hearty Cheesy Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole with Ham invites morning comfort straight from grandma’s kitchen. Savory ham, crispy potatoes, and melted cheese create a satisfying breakfast that promises to energize your day and delight your taste buds.


Ingredients

Scale

Protein:

  • 2 cups cooked ham, diced
  • 8 large eggs

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 (30 ounces / 850 grams) bag frozen shredded hashbrowns, thawed
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Seasonings and Liquids:

  • 1 1/2 cups milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt, to taste
  • Pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the oven by heating to 350F (175C) and coating a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
  2. Create an even foundation by distributing frozen hashbrowns across the entire surface of the prepared dish.
  3. Generously scatter diced ham and shredded cheese over the hashbrown layer, ensuring comprehensive coverage.
  4. Combine eggs with milk in a mixing bowl, whisking thoroughly to create a smooth liquid base.
  5. Incorporate garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper into the egg mixture, blending until seasonings are evenly distributed.
  6. Carefully pour the seasoned egg mixture over the hashbrown, ham, and cheese layers, allowing liquid to penetrate throughout the dish.
  7. Transfer the casserole to the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 45-50 minutes, monitoring until eggs are completely set and the top develops a golden-brown crust.
  8. Remove from oven and allow the casserole to rest for 5-10 minutes, enabling the ingredients to settle and flavors to meld.
  9. Optional: Sprinkle freshly chopped green onions over the top for added color and mild onion flavor before serving.

Notes

  • Swap frozen hashbrowns with freshly grated potatoes for a crispier texture and homemade feel.
  • Use low-fat cheese and lean ham to transform this dish into a lighter, healthier breakfast option.
  • Add diced bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrients and vibrant color to boost the casserole’s nutritional profile.
  • Create a vegetarian version by replacing ham with plant-based protein like tofu crumbles or meat substitute.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 50 minutes
  • Category: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 360
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 750 mg
  • Fat: 25 g
  • Saturated Fat: 13 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 12 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 22 g
  • Cholesterol: 210 mg
Lucas Bennett

Lucas Bennett

Founder & Recipe Developer

Expertise

  • Developing single-serving recipes with a rustic, seasonal twist.
  • Crafting engaging food insights that connect with readers.
  • Developing content that educates readers on healthy baking alternatives.
  • Integrating local ingredients into accessible home cooking.​

Education

Blue Ridge Community College – Certificate in Culinary Arts
Focused on seasonal cooking, sustainable kitchen practices, and farm-to-table techniques.

Appalachian State University – B.A. in English
Built critical thinking and analysis through diverse texts. Guided by faculty, it prepares graduates for publishing and more.


Growing up in the rolling hills of North Carolina, Lucas learned early that some of life’s best memories start around a kitchen table. After studying English at Appalachian State University and honing his culinary skills at Blue Ridge Community College, he dreamed of blending storytelling with rustic, seasonal cooking, and The Scrumptious Pumpkin was born.
Lucas focuses on easy, single-serving recipes that turn fresh, local ingredients into something special. His style is simple, heartfelt, and rooted in the beauty of the seasons. When he’s not testing a new dish, you’ll probably find him hiking in the Blue Ridge Mountains, browsing farmers’ markets, or scribbling food stories in a notebook.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star