Cheesy Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole With Ham Recipe

Irresistible Cheesy Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole With Ham Recipe

My go-to cheesy hashbrown breakfast casserole with ham brings weekend comfort straight to your morning table.

Crispy potato shreds mingle with savory ham chunks in a creamy, melted cheese embrace.

Weekends demand something special that feels like a warm hug from the kitchen.

Mornings can be tough, but this hearty dish makes waking up a delightful experience.

Packed with protein and flavor, this casserole turns ordinary breakfast into a celebration of delicious simplicity.

You’ll want to slice into this golden, bubbling masterpiece that promises to satisfy every hungry soul at the table.

Trust me, one bite and you’ll be planning your next breakfast adventure.

What Makes This Ham Casserole So Good

  • Simplify Weeknight Cooking: This one-pot wonder eliminates multiple dishes and complex cooking steps, making dinner preparation a breeze for busy home cooks.
  • Packed with Flavor Punch: Combining honey's sweetness, garlic's depth, and savory soy sauce creates an irresistible sauce that transforms ordinary chicken into a restaurant-quality meal.
  • Family-Friendly Feast: Kids and adults will love the tender chicken, slurpable noodles, and delicious sauce that appeals to all taste buds without requiring sophisticated ingredients.
  • Quick Comfort Meal: Achieves a complete, satisfying dinner in under 30 minutes, perfect for those seeking a fast yet delicious solution to mealtime challenges.

What Goes in Cheesy Ham Casserole

For the Base:
  • Hashbrowns: Shredded potatoes that provide a crispy and hearty foundation for the breakfast casserole.
For the Protein:
  • Ham: Diced meat that adds savory flavor and substantial protein to the dish.
For the Dairy:
  • Cheddar Cheese: Melts beautifully and creates a rich, creamy texture throughout the casserole.
  • Milk: Helps bind the eggs and creates a smooth, creamy consistency.
  • Eggs: Act as the primary binding agent and provide structure to the casserole.
For the Seasonings:
  • Salt, Black Pepper, Garlic Powder, Onion Powder: Enhance the overall flavor profile and add depth to the breakfast dish.

How to Make Ham Breakfast Casserole

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Crank the oven to a toasty 375F and grab your baking dish. Give it a quick spray or butter rub to prevent any sticky situations.

Step 2: Create the Potato Base

Spread those crispy hashbrowns across the bottom of the dish in an even, welcoming layer that’ll make your breakfast sing.

Step 3: Add Savory Protein and Cheese

Scatter chunks of delicious ham across the hashbrowns, then shower the entire surface with a generous blanket of shredded cheese.

Step 4: Whip Up the Creamy Egg Mixture

Grab a mixing bowl and combine:
  • Eggs
  • Whole milk
  • Salt
  • Black pepper
  • Garlic powder
  • Onion powder

Whisk everything together until smooth and well-blended.

Step 5: Pour and Distribute

Gently cascade the egg mixture over the hashbrowns, ham, and cheese, ensuring every inch gets a beautiful coating.

Step 6: Final Cheese Flourish

Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top for an extra layer of golden, melty goodness.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Slide the casserole into the preheated oven and let it bake for 40-45 minutes.

Watch for a gorgeous golden-brown top and a set center.

Step 8: Rest and Serve

Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes, then slice and serve up a hearty breakfast that’ll make everyone smile.

Helpful Notes for Ham Hashbrown Casserole

  • Swap frozen hashbrowns with freshly grated potatoes for a crispier texture and more homemade feel.
  • Use different protein options like cooked bacon, sausage, or vegetarian alternatives to customize the casserole.
  • Prep the dish night before and refrigerate, allowing flavors to meld and making morning cooking easier.
  • Add chopped vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition and color boost.
  • Choose low-fat cheese and milk to create a lighter version of this hearty breakfast casserole.

Twists for Cheesy Ham Casserole

  • Southwest Fiesta Casserole: Replace ham with spicy chorizo, add diced green chiles, swap cheddar for pepper jack cheese, and sprinkle chopped cilantro on top for a zesty Mexican-inspired breakfast.
  • Vegetarian Garden Medley: Substitute ham with roasted bell peppers, zucchini, and spinach, use feta cheese, and incorporate fresh herbs like basil for a colorful plant-based version.
  • Bacon Ranch Sensation: Trade ham for crispy bacon bits, mix ranch seasoning into the egg mixture, and use a blend of mozzarella and cheddar cheeses for a rich, tangy flavor profile.
  • Mediterranean Morning Spin: Replace ham with crumbled feta, add sun-dried tomatoes, kalamata olives, and sprinkle dried oregano for a Greek-inspired breakfast casserole.

Great Way to Serve This Casserole

  • Brunch Bonanza: Serve this hearty casserole with fresh mixed greens for a balanced meal that cuts through the richness.
  • Weekend Comfort Plate: Pair with crispy bacon strips and sliced fresh tomatoes to add color and extra protein to your breakfast spread.
  • Morning Gathering Feast: Complement the dish with homemade salsa or fresh herb garnish like chopped chives to brighten up the flavors and add a fresh touch.
  • Quick Family Meal: Offer warm toasted sourdough bread on the side to help soak up the cheesy egg mixture and create a complete, satisfying breakfast experience.

How to Keep Ham Casserole Moist

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Cover with plastic wrap or lid to maintain freshness and prevent drying out.
  • Wrap casserole tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in refrigerator before reheating.
  • Warm individual portions in microwave for 1-2 minutes, or bake entire casserole in 350F oven for 15-20 minutes until heated through. Add extra cheese on top for extra crispiness.
  • Cut casserole into single servings, wrap separately in plastic wrap or place in small containers for easy grab-and-go breakfast or meal prep options.

FAQs

  • Can I use frozen hashbrowns for this recipe?

Yes, frozen hashbrowns work perfectly. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well to prevent excess moisture in the casserole.

  • Is it possible to make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole the night before and refrigerate. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.

  • What kind of ham works best in this recipe?

Diced or chopped pre-cooked ham is ideal. You can also use leftover holiday ham or deli ham slices cut into small pieces.

  • Can I substitute the cheese with a different type?

Definitely! Cheddar, monterey jack, or a blend of cheeses will work well. Just ensure you use a good melting cheese for the best results.

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Cheesy Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole With Ham Recipe

Cheesy Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole With Ham Recipe


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4.6 from 18 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Hearty cheesy hashbrown breakfast casserole with ham provides a comforting morning meal packed with flavor. Layers of potatoes, melted cheese, and savory ham create a satisfying breakfast you’ll crave again and again.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 6 large eggs
  • 1 1/2 cups diced ham
  • 4 cups frozen hashbrowns, thawed
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder

Instructions

  1. Prepare the oven by heating to 375F (190C) and thoroughly coat a baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
  2. Create an even base layer of frozen hashbrowns across the entire bottom of the greased dish.
  3. Distribute diced ham uniformly over the hashbrown foundation, ensuring consistent coverage.
  4. Generously scatter a portion of shredded cheese across the ham and potato layer.
  5. Combine eggs with milk in a mixing bowl, incorporating salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder through vigorous whisking.
  6. Gently cascade the seasoned egg mixture over the hashbrown, ham, and cheese layers, making certain complete and balanced distribution.
  7. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top, creating a golden, melty crown for the casserole.
  8. Transfer the assembled dish to the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, watching for a rich golden surface and firm center.
  9. Remove from oven and allow the casserole to rest and slightly cool for 5-7 minutes before slicing and serving to help set the texture.

Notes

  • Make hashbrowns extra crispy by patting them dry with paper towels before layering, removing excess moisture ensures a perfect golden texture.
  • Swap ham with turkey bacon or vegetarian sausage crumbles for dietary variations that keep the dish protein-packed and flavorful.
  • Add diced bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition and color, creating a more balanced and vibrant breakfast casserole.
  • Prepare the night before by assembling and refrigerating, then bake in the morning for a stress-free, delicious breakfast that saves morning cooking time.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Category: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 410 kcal
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 720 mg
  • Fat: 28 g
  • Saturated Fat: 14 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 18 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 27 g
  • Cholesterol: 225 mg
Maya Thompson

Maya Thompson

Culinary Content Creator & Nutrition Enthusiast

Expertise

Healthy single-serving recipes, Meal prepping for individuals, Integrating nutrition into everyday cooking, Vegetarian and plant-based cuisine​

Education

The Chef’s Academy at Harrison College
Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts
Focus: Nutrition, meal planning, and culinary techniques for healthy living.


Maya found her passion in the kitchen by mixing good food with good energy. After earning her culinary degree at The Chef’s Academy at Harrison College, she made it her mission to keep cooking simple, wholesome, and packed with flavor.
At Steelhead Diner, Maya shares easy, healthy recipes built for real life. For Maya, great food seems like a celebration of everyday moments, made better one fresh bite at a time.

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