Farmers Casserole

 

If you want a hearty, crowd-pleasing breakfast casserole that’s easy to assemble and irresistibly delicious, this Farmers Casserole blends shredded potatoes, savory ham or sausage, creamy eggs, and melted cheddar into a warm, rustic bake. Perfect for brunch, meal prep, or feeding a family.

Why This Farmers Casserole Works

This recipe stands out because it’s simple to assemble, make-ahead friendly, and completely customizable. It delivers a satisfying mix of textures — a tender, custardy egg interior, melty cheese, and a comforting potato base — which makes it a beloved staple for busy mornings and weekend brunches alike.

Ingredients & Their Roles

• 3 cups frozen shredded hash browns
  — Forms the sturdy, filling base that soaks up flavor and provides texture.
• 1 cup cooked ham or sausage (diced or crumbled)
  — Adds savory richness and protein; ham gives smoke, sausage adds spice.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  — Melts into a creamy layer that ties the casserole together and adds sharpness.
• ¼ cup sliced green onions
  — Brightens the dish with a mild onion note and fresh color.
• 4 large eggs
  — The binding, custard-making core; eggs set the casserole and create a soft interior.
• 1½ cups milk
  — Thins the eggs for a light, evenly-baked texture; whole milk yields richest results.
• Salt & black pepper
  — Balances and enhances all flavors.
• Optional add-ins: sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach, or different cheeses for variety.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
2. Layer the potatoes: Spread the frozen shredded hash browns evenly across the bottom of the prepared dish; press gently to form a compact base.
3. Add the protein: Scatter the diced ham or cooked sausage over the potatoes, distributing evenly so each serving has savory bites.
4. Cheese layer: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar across the top of the meat and potatoes. The cheese melts into the egg mixture and locks in flavor.
5. Brighten with aromatics: Scatter the sliced green onions (reserve some for garnish if desired).
6. Whisk the custard: In a large bowl, whisk together the 4 eggs, 1½ cups milk, 1 tsp salt, and ½ tsp black pepper until smooth and homogenous.
7. Pour and settle: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layered ingredients, letting it soak into the hash browns and fill gaps.
8. Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the center is set and the top turns lightly golden.
9. Rest: Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes — this helps the casserole finish setting and makes slicing clean.
10. Serve: Slice into squares and garnish with reserved green onions. Enjoy warm.

Why People Love This Recipe

This casserole is budget-friendly, feed-a-crowd friendly, and excellent for make-ahead breakfasts. It reheats well, freezes nicely in portions, and can be tailored to many diets (swap milk for a dairy alternative, use turkey sausage, etc.).

Pro Tips for a Perfect Farmers Casserole

• Use whole milk when possible — it yields a creamier, silkier custard.
• Sauté watery vegetables (mushrooms, peppers) first so they don’t release moisture and make the casserole soggy.
• Don’t overbake: the center should be just set; overbaking leads to dry eggs. Remove when a knife inserted near the center comes out mostly clean.
• Make-ahead: assemble the casserole the night before, cover, and refrigerate. Bake in the morning (you may need a few extra minutes).
• Add a flavor lift: a pinch of smoked paprika, a dash of garlic powder, or a drizzle of hot sauce when serving adds complexity.

Serving Suggestions

Balance the rich, savory casserole with fresh, bright sides:

• Fresh fruit salad or sliced citrus for acidity.
• Warm biscuits or whole-grain toast to mop up any melted cheese.
• Greek yogurt with honey for a creamy, tangy contrast.
• Simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to lighten the meal.
• Fresh-squeezed orange juice or a bold coffee to complete the brunch.

Easy Variations

Want to change it up? Try these ideas:

• Vegetarian: Replace meat with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and roasted red peppers.
• Spicy: Use chorizo or add chopped jalapeños and cayenne.
• Low-fat: Swap milk for a reduced-fat alternative and use turkey sausage.
• Cheesy twist: Mix cheddar with Monterey Jack or Gruyère for a more complex melt.

Summary: This Farmers Casserole is the ultimate combination of simplicity and deliciousness — shredded potatoes, savory meat, creamy egg custard, and melty cheese baked to golden perfection. It’s easy to make, perfect for feeding a crowd, and versatile enough for countless variations. Try it for your next brunch or busy morning: the results are reliably comforting and undeniably tasty.

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