Hash Brown Egg Casserole (Easy Breakfast Bake)

There’s something magical about waking up to the smell of a warm, cheesy breakfast casserole bubbling away in the oven. This Hash Brown Egg Casserole (Easy Breakfast Bake) is the kind of cozy, crowd-pleasing dish that transforms any morning into a family celebration. Whether it’s a lazy Sunday brunch, a make-ahead meal for busy mornings, or a holiday breakfast spread, this casserole is hearty, comforting, and unbelievably easy to make.

Made with shredded hash browns, fluffy eggs, melted cheese, and your favorite breakfast meats, it delivers everything you love about breakfast in one delicious, oven-baked dish. Best of all, it’s simple, budget-friendly, and can easily be customized to fit your taste or dietary needs.

Let’s dive into how to make this perfectly golden, satisfying breakfast bake that will make you everyone’s favorite brunch host!

Why You’ll Love This Hash Brown Egg Casserole

1. Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor: You probably already have everything in your kitchen — eggs, potatoes, milk, and cheese.
2. Customizable: Add veggies, meats, or extra cheese for your own twist.
3. Perfect for Meal Prep: Bake once, reheat throughout the week for quick breakfasts.
4. Crowd-Friendly: Great for feeding guests or family during holidays or special brunches.
5. Freezer-Friendly: Prepare in advance and freeze for effortless future meals.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this classic, comforting hash brown egg casserole:

• 6 large eggs
• 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
• 2 cups frozen shredded hash browns (thawed)
• 1/2 cup diced onion
• 1/2 cup diced bell pepper (any color)
• 1 cup cooked sausage or bacon bits (optional for meat lovers)
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp paprika
• 1 tbsp olive oil or butter (for greasing the baking dish)

Instructions

1. Preheat and Prep:
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil or butter.
2. Cook the Add-Ins:
   In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the diced onion and bell pepper for 3–4 minutes until softened. If using sausage or bacon, cook it until browned and crispy, then drain excess fat.
3. Mix the Egg Base:
   In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika until smooth and frothy.
4. Add the Hash Browns and Fillings:
   Stir in the thawed hash browns, sautéed vegetables, cooked sausage (if using), and shredded cheese. Mix everything until evenly combined.
5. Pour into Baking Dish:
   Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle an extra handful of cheese on top for that irresistible golden crust.
6. Bake to Perfection:
   Bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown. A knife inserted in the center should come out clean.
7. Rest and Serve:
   Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color.

Hash Brown Egg Casserole (Easy Breakfast Bake)

A hearty, cheesy breakfast casserole made with eggs, hash browns, and your favorite add-ins. Perfect for weekends, holidays, or meal prep.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 40 minutes mins

Total Time 55 minutes mins

Servings: 8 slices

Course: Breakfast, Brunch

Cuisine: American

Calories: 290

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 6 large eggs
• 1 cup milk whole or 2%
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese plus extra for topping
• 2 cups shredded hash browns thawed
• 0.5 cup diced onion
• 0.5 cup diced bell pepper
• 1 cup cooked sausage or bacon bits optional
• 0.5 tsp salt
• 0.25 tsp black pepper
• 0.25 tsp garlic powder
• 0.25 tsp paprika
• 1 tbsp olive oil or butter for greasing

Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Baking dish
• Whisk
• Skillet

Method

 

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Sauté onions and peppers in a skillet until soft. Cook sausage or bacon if using.
3. In a bowl, whisk eggs, milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
4. Add hash browns, veggies, sausage, and cheese. Mix well.
5. Pour mixture into baking dish and sprinkle extra cheese on top.
6. Bake for 35–40 minutes until golden and set. Let rest before slicing.

Notes

Thaw hash browns before using to prevent excess moisture.

Tips for Success

• Use Thawed Hash Browns: Frozen ones can water down the casserole, so thaw and drain before mixing.
• Cheese Matters: Cheddar adds sharp flavor, but feel free to experiment with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for a spicy kick.
• Add Greens: Spinach or kale can be mixed in for extra nutrition.
• Make It Creamier: Add a half cup of sour cream or heavy cream to the egg mixture for a richer texture.
• Spice It Up: Add jalapeños, hot sauce, or smoked paprika for bold flavor.

Variations

1. Vegetarian Version:
   Skip the sausage or bacon and load up on veggies — think mushrooms, spinach, zucchini, and tomatoes.
2. Southwestern Twist:
   Add diced green chiles, pepper jack cheese, and a sprinkle of taco seasoning. Serve with salsa and avocado slices.
3. Loaded Breakfast Casserole:
   Include everything — bacon, sausage, ham, and a mix of cheeses. Perfect for hungry crowds.
4. Mini Muffin Version:
   Pour the mixture into greased muffin tins for portable, grab-and-go breakfast bites. Bake for 20–25 minutes.

Make-Ahead & Freezer Instructions

Make Ahead:
Prepare the casserole the night before, cover with foil, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, bake as directed — you may need to add 5–10 minutes to the bake time.

Freeze for Later:
Once baked and cooled, slice into portions and wrap tightly. Store in the freezer for up to 2 months. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole pairs wonderfully with:

• Fresh fruit salad
• Buttery toast or biscuits
• Yogurt parfaits
• Hot coffee or orange juice

It’s a perfect dish for Christmas morning, Mother’s Day brunch, or any lazy weekend breakfast.

Fun Fact

Did you know? The hash brown was first popularized in the U.S. in the late 1800s and quickly became a diner staple. Combining eggs, cheese, and hash browns in one bake is the ultimate evolution of classic breakfast comfort food — convenient, hearty, and loved by all ages.

Nutrition Information (per serving, approx.)

• Calories: 290
• Protein: 14g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fat: 17g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 2g

Conclusion

This Hash Brown Egg Casserole (Easy Breakfast Bake) is the definition of cozy, satisfying breakfast comfort food. It’s easy to prepare, endlessly customizable, and perfect for feeding a family or a crowd. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or hosting a brunch gathering, this hearty casserole brings warmth and joy to any table.

So, grab your eggs, cheese, and potatoes — and start your morning with a dish that’s sure to become a new family favorite!