Cheesy Hash Brown Egg Bake (Crowd-Pleasing Easter Brunch Casserole)
Cheesy Hash Brown Egg Bake is the perfect dish to serve at your next brunch gathering, especially on Easter when family and friends come together to celebrate. With its golden, crispy edges and soft, cheesy center, this comforting casserole is both satisfying and savory. You’ll find the combination of crispy bacon (or sausage), fluffy hash browns, and layers of rich cheeses make it an irresistible choice for breakfast—and it’s kid-friendly too!
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I remember the first time I brought this dish to a family brunch; everyone couldn’t stop raving about it. It’s super easy to prepare, incredibly filling, and can easily feed a crowd. Plus, the best part is, you can prepare it the night before, making it a fantastic option for anyone looking to minimize stress on holiday mornings. So grab your apron and let’s make Cheesy Hash Brown Egg Bake (Crowd-Pleasing Easter Brunch Casserole) together!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple & Quick: Just 20 minutes of prep time means you’ll have more time to enjoy your coffee.
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of creamy cheese, crispy bacon, and fluffy hash browns is nothing short of perfection.
- Eye-Catching Appeal: The golden, bubbly top and sprinkled green onions make this dish a showstopper on any table.
- Flexible Serving: Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a hearty dinner after a long day.
- Diet-Friendly Options: Easily swap ingredients or adjust for gluten-free or dairy-free diets.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 8 to 16 ounces bacon or sausage: These add a savory depth and protein boost. You can opt for turkey bacon or a plant-based sausage for lighter or vegetarian options.
- ½ cup small diced onion or shallots: These aromatics offer flavor that enhances the whole dish, making it savory and inviting.
- 8 large eggs: Providing the essential base for the casserole, eggs bind everything together. For an egg-free alternative, consider using a flaxseed or chia seed mixture.
- 4-5 cups shredded hash browns (frozen or thawed): The backbone of this dish, they provide a wonderfully crispy texture. Freshly grated potatoes can be used, but pre-packaged hash browns are a huge time-saver.
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional): Just a splash gives the casserole a slight kick without being overpowering.
- 1 teaspoon coarse kosher salt: Essential for bringing all the flavors together. Adjust to your taste preference!
- ¼ teaspoon pepper: A little spice can elevate the dish beautifully; freshly cracked pepper is always best.
- ¾ cup cottage cheese: Adds creaminess and moisture while reducing the need for excess milk or cream.
- ¾ cup sour cream: This contributes tanginess and richness—Greek yogurt can be a great substitute if preferred.
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Sharp cheese adds a stronger flavor, perfect for balancing the mildness of the eggs and hash browns.
- 1 cup shredded swiss cheese: Melts beautifully with a subtle nutty flavor—feel free to use gouda or Monterey Jack for variety.
- Chopped green onions or chives: These add the final touch of freshness and color, brightening up the dish.
How to Make Cheesy Hash Brown Egg Bake (Crowd-Pleasing Easter Brunch Casserole)
Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350 degrees F, allowing it to heat while you prepare the other ingredients. This crucial step ensures an evenly cooked casserole.
Cook the bacon or sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the chopped bacon or sausage along with the diced onion. Cook until your meat is crispy and the onions are soft and fragrant, around 8-10 minutes. Drain any excess grease to avoid a soggy bottom.
Mix the egg filling: In a big mixing bowl, whisk together 8 large eggs, 4-5 cups shredded hash browns, 1 teaspoon hot sauce (if using), 1 teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon pepper, ¾ cup cottage cheese, ¾ cup sour cream, and both 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese and 1 cup shredded swiss cheese. Incorporate the cooked meat and onion mixture until it’s fully blended and creamy.
Spread the mixture: Once combined, pour the egg mixture into the prepared 9X13-inch greased baking pan, spreading it evenly in the dish. If you’re feeling ahead of the game, you can cover it and refrigerate overnight for a truly delicious next-day bake.
Bake the casserole: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes. Keep an eye on it; it should be puffed up, with lightly golden edges and a center that is set, meaning a toothpick or knife inserted should come out clean. If you refrigerated it overnight, you might need to add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
Garnish and serve: After baking, let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows for easier slicing into squares. Sprinkle chopped green onions or chives over the top before serving for that fresh finish and added flavor.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you want to keep it longer, freeze portions in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat in the oven at 350 degrees F for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through; the texture will be best this way. Microwaving is convenient, but it might make the dish a little soggy.
Chef’s Helpful Tips
- To prevent a soggy casserole, make sure to drain excess grease from your bacon or sausage thoroughly.
- For best results, use room-temperature eggs; they mix better and create fluffier textures.
- Timing is key; do not skip letting the casserole rest before cutting—it makes serving a breeze.
- If you prefer a crispy top, broil for the last few minutes, but watch it closely to prevent burning!
- Consider experimenting with different cheese combinations to suit your taste preferences.
This Cheesy Hash Brown Egg Bake is not just a recipe; it’s an invitation to gather, celebrate, and enjoy good food with loved ones. It’s easy, delicious, and sure to make a lasting impression at any brunch. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients or sides. Enjoy every bite!
Recipe FAQs
Can I prepare the Cheesy Hash Brown Egg Bake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole the night before and refrigerate it. Just remember to adjust the baking time when you cook it after it’s been sitting in the fridge.
How long does the casserole take to bake if refrigerated overnight?
If you’ve prepped the casserole the night before, increase your baking time to about 50-60 minutes to ensure it’s fully cooked through.
What can I substitute for the cottage cheese?
If you’re not a fan of cottage cheese, you can replace it with additional sour cream or Greek yogurt for a smoother texture without losing creaminess.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Just ensure that your hash browns and any meats used are gluten-free. This casserole naturally lends itself to accommodate gluten-free diets easily.
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📖 Recipe Card
Cheesy Hash Brown Egg Bake (Crowd-Pleasing Easter Brunch Casserole)
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Cheesy Hash Brown Egg Bake is a delightful casserole that combines crispy bacon, creamy cheeses, and fluffy eggs. Perfect for brunch gatherings or family meals, it’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor. Ideal for those seeking a hearty homemade recipe!
Ingredients
- 8 to 16 ounces (227 to 454 g) bacon, chopped, or sausage
- ½ cup small diced onion or shallots
- 8 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 4–5 cups (567 to 680 g) shredded hash browns, frozen or thawed
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce, optional
- 1 teaspoon salt, coarse kosher salt recommended
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
- ¾ cup (170 g) cottage cheese
- ¾ cup (170 g) sour cream
- 1 cup (114 g) shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup (114 g) shredded swiss cheese
- chopped green onions or chives, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9X13-inch baking pan. Set aside.
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon or sausage along with the onion until fully cooked and crisp. Drain any excess grease.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the beaten eggs, hash browns, hot sauce (if using), salt, pepper, cottage cheese, sour cream, cheddar, and swiss cheese. Add the cooked bacon or sausage and onions, mixing well.
- Spread this mixture evenly in your prepared pan. You can cover it and refrigerate overnight if desired.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes until the edges are lightly golden, the center is puffy, and a thin knife inserted in the center comes out clean. If refrigerated, add 10-15 extra minutes to the baking time.
- Garnish with chopped green onions or chives before serving. Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before cutting into squares.
Notes
This casserole can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator before baking.
Feel free to use different meats like sausage or even vegetarian options for added flexibility.
Adjust cheese types to your liking; a mix of cheeses can add extra flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 220mg
