Cheesy Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole

Start your morning off right with this irresistibly comforting Cheesy Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole. Packed with melty cheddar and mozzarella, tender diced bell peppers, and savory cooked turkey bacon, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that comes together with just a handful of simple ingredients. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, this casserole is the perfect balance of cheesy, hearty, and satisfying.

Why This Recipe is a Keeper

This Cheesy Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole is one of those recipes that quickly becomes a staple because it’s so versatile and easy to make. Using a bag of frozen hash browns saves you time without sacrificing flavor or texture. The combination of cheddar and mozzarella cheeses creates a gooey, creamy layer that contrasts beautifully with the crispy edges of the browned potatoes. Plus, adding diced bell peppers and turkey bacon offers a fresh crunch and protein boost that round out the dish perfectly.

You’ll appreciate how effortlessly this casserole can be prepped the night before and popped into the oven in the morning. It’s a fantastic option for holiday brunches, weekend breakfasts, or even a comforting dinner when you want something warm and filling without fuss. The spices—garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper—bring out the best in every ingredient without overpowering the natural flavors.

If you love dishes like Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Gratin, this casserole will quickly become a new favorite. It’s the ultimate balance of cheesy indulgence and wholesome ingredients.

The Essentials

• 1 bag frozen hash browns – The base of the casserole, providing that classic breakfast potato texture.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – Sharp and flavorful, it adds a rich depth to the dish.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – Melts beautifully and adds creaminess.
• 6 large eggs – Binds everything together and adds protein.
• 1 cup milk – Creates a custard-like texture when combined with eggs.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder – A subtle aromatic boost.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder – Adds savory warmth.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt – Enhances all the flavors.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper – Adds a gentle kick.
• 1 cup diced bell peppers – For color, crunch, and a touch of sweetness.
• 1 cup diced cooked turkey bacon – Provides smoky, savory flavor with a leaner protein option.

Toolbox for This Recipe

• 9×13 inch baking dish: Perfect for layering and baking your casserole evenly.
• Mixing bowl: To whisk eggs, milk, and seasonings together.
• Whisk or fork: For beating the eggs and milk until smooth.
• Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure accurate ingredient portions.
• Spatula or large spoon: For mixing all the components together.
• Knife and cutting board: For dicing bell peppers and turkey bacon.

Cheesy Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole Made Stepwise

Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prep Baking Dish

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease your 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or a small amount of butter to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Combine Eggs and Milk

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the 6 large eggs and 1 cup of milk until fully combined and slightly frothy. This mixture will create the custardy base that holds the casserole together.

Step 3: Add Seasonings

Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper into the egg mixture. Whisk again to evenly distribute the spices.

Step 4: Stir in Cheeses and Vegetables

Fold in the 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, 1 cup diced bell peppers, and 1 cup diced cooked turkey bacon. Mix gently but thoroughly so every bite has a bit of everything.

Step 5: Mix in Frozen Hash Browns

Add the entire bag of frozen hash browns to the egg and cheese mixture. Stir well to coat the potatoes evenly with the custard and cheese.

Step 6: Transfer to Baking Dish

Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. The casserole should be level and well-distributed.

Step 7: Bake Until Golden and Set

Bake uncovered for 45-55 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is fully set in the center. A toothpick inserted should come out clean.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Allow the casserole to cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This resting time helps it firm up and makes serving easier. Enjoy warm!

Make It Year-Round

• Swap bell peppers for seasonal veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini in spring and summer.
• Use leftover diced chicken or beef instead of turkey bacon for a heartier twist.
• Try different cheese blends such as pepper jack or gouda for varied flavors.
• Make individual portions in muffin tins for quick grab-and-go breakfasts.
• Freeze leftovers for easy reheating on busy mornings or lazy weekends.

Pro Tips & Notes

• For extra crispy edges, broil the casserole for 2-3 minutes at the end of baking, watching closely to avoid burning.

• If you prefer a fluffier texture, separate the eggs and beat the egg whites to soft peaks before folding them back in.

• Make sure the turkey bacon is well-cooked and crisp to add nice texture contrast.

• If your frozen hash browns are clumped, break them apart gently with your hands before mixing.

• Feel free to add a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives on top after baking for a fresh burst of color and flavor.

Storage & Reheat Guide

Store any leftover Cheesy Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When ready to eat, reheat individual slices in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or until warmed through. For the best texture, reheat in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes to restore some crispiness.

You can also freeze the casserole before baking. To do this, assemble it in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed. This makes meal planning super easy, especially when paired with sides like Cheddar Scallion Buttermilk Biscuits.

Reader Q&A

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?

Yes! If using fresh potatoes, peel and grate them, then squeeze out excess moisture with a clean kitchen towel before mixing. This helps prevent a watery casserole. You may also want to lightly sauté them first to soften.

Is there a vegetarian version of this casserole?

Absolutely! Simply omit the turkey bacon and consider adding extra veggies like mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes. You could also add plant-based bacon alternatives or smoked tofu for similar smoky flavors.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Definitely. Assemble the casserole and refrigerate it overnight, then bake it fresh in the morning. This is a great way to save time on busy mornings while still enjoying a homemade breakfast.

What can I serve alongside this casserole?

This casserole pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit, a simple green salad, or warm biscuits like the Cheddar Scallion Buttermilk Biscuits. For extra potatoes on the side, try a batch of Garlic Parmesan Pull Apart Potatoes.

Weekend Projects

• Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Gratin – A rich and creamy potato dish perfect for weekend dinners.
• Cheddar Scallion Buttermilk Biscuits – Fluffy, cheesy biscuits that complement any breakfast casserole.
• Garlic Parmesan Pull Apart Potatoes – A fun and flavorful side to share with family and friends.

Make It Tonight

If you’re craving a cozy breakfast-for-dinner option, this Cheesy Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole is your answer. It comes together quickly with simple pantry staples and freezes beautifully for leftovers. Whip it up this evening, bake it fresh, and savor the cheesy, savory goodness that warms you from the inside out. Whether it’s a lazy weekend or a special occasion, this casserole is sure to satisfy your comfort food cravings.

With its perfect balance of fluffy eggs, crispy potatoes, melty cheese, and flavorful bacon, this recipe will quickly earn a permanent spot in your meal rotation. So grab your baking dish and get ready for a dish that’s as easy as it is delicious. Your taste buds—and your mornings—will thank you.

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