Print

Crispy Cheesy Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole

crispy cheesy hash brown breakfast casserole - featured image
Print Recipe

A quick and easy breakfast casserole featuring crispy hash browns, gooey cheese, and a creamy egg custard base, perfect for rushed mornings or brunch gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups frozen shredded hash browns (about 340g)
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (about 200g)
  • 1 cup cottage cheese (about 225g), small-curd
  • 6 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 cup milk (240ml), whole or 2%
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish with melted butter.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together 6 large eggs and 1 cup milk until smooth and slightly frothy, about 2 minutes.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine 4 cups thawed shredded hash browns, 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, 1 cup cottage cheese, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. Stir well to evenly distribute flavors.
  4. Slowly add the egg and milk mixture into the hash brown and cheese bowl, folding gently with a spatula until creamy but not soupy. If too wet, add 1 tablespoon breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes for texture.
  5. Spread the mixture evenly in the buttered casserole dish and pat down gently to smooth the top without compressing.
  6. Bake uncovered for 45-55 minutes until the top is golden brown and edges are crispy. A knife inserted in the center should come out clean and the top should feel firm.
  7. Let the casserole rest for about 10 minutes before cutting to help it set.
  8. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve warm with your favorite breakfast sides or fruit salad.

Notes

Thaw hash browns slightly before baking for crispier texture. Use room-temperature eggs and milk for even baking. Tent with foil if edges brown too fast. Let casserole rest before cutting to avoid a gooey mess. Can substitute cottage cheese with Greek yogurt or silken tofu for dairy-free. Add veggies or meats for variations.

Nutrition

Keywords: hash brown casserole, breakfast casserole, cheesy breakfast, easy brunch recipe, crispy hash browns, cheesy casserole, quick breakfast

Find it online: https://emmayum.com/crispy-cheesy-hash-brown-breakfast-casserole-easy-recipe-for-perfect-mornings/