Quick Description
This Farmer’s Casserole is a classic, cozy dish that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner. Loaded with potatoes, eggs, cheese, and savory meat, it bakes into a satisfying, golden casserole that feeds a crowd with minimal effort. It’s the kind of down-home recipe that feels filling, familiar, and comforting—just like something from a farmhouse kitchen.
Servings & Timing
- Servings: 6–8
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Bake Time: 45–50 minutes
- Total Time: ~1 hour
Ingredients List
- 3 cups frozen hash browns, thawed
- 1½ cups cooked ham or bacon, diced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour, sifted
- 1½ cups milk
- 4 large eggs
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp garlic powder (optional)
- 2 tbsp green onions, chopped (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Layer the Base
Spread thawed hash browns evenly in the baking dish.
Top with diced ham (or bacon) and shredded cheddar cheese.
Step 3: Make the Egg Mixture
In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, flour, salt, pepper, and garlic powder until smooth and lump-free.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layered ingredients in the baking dish.
Sprinkle green onions on top if using.
Step 5: Bake
Bake uncovered for 45–50 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is lightly golden.
Step 6: Rest & Serve
Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing.
Serve warm.
Additional Notes
- Sifting the flour helps it blend smoothly into the egg mixture and keeps the casserole light and tender.
- Thawed hash browns are important—extra moisture can make the casserole watery.
- For extra richness, you can substitute half the milk with heavy cream.
Dietary Info
- High-Protein
- Comfort Food Classic
- Contains gluten & dairy
Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions
- Sausage Version: Replace ham with cooked breakfast sausage
- Veggie Farmer’s Casserole: Add bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or pepper jack cheese
- Serve with: fresh fruit, biscuits, toast, or a green salad
Storage & Make-Ahead
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container up to 4 days
- Make-Ahead: Assemble the night before, cover, and bake in the morning
- Freezer: Freeze baked casserole up to 2 months
FAQs
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, this casserole is perfect for overnight prep.
Q: Why add flour to the egg mixture?
It helps the casserole set properly and gives a tender, almost custard-like texture.
Q: Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?
Yes—shred and parboil them first, then drain well.
