Easy Cheesy Bacon and Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole: Your Ultimate Make-Ahead Brunch Recipe
Say goodbye to last-minute morning stress with this incredible Bacon and Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole! This all-in-one dish masterfully combines all your breakfast favorites – crispy bacon, fluffy eggs, golden hash browns, and melty cheese – into a single, hearty, and unbelievably delicious bake. Whether you’re planning a special holiday brunch, feeding a hungry crowd, or simply craving a comforting breakfast-for-dinner, this savory casserole is guaranteed to become a family favorite.
Not only is it incredibly flavorful, but it’s also surprisingly quick and easy to prepare, baking up to golden perfection in just about half an hour. The best part? You can assemble it the night before, making your mornings smoother and more enjoyable. Get ready to impress with this versatile and mouthwatering breakfast solution!
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🩵 About This Ultimate Breakfast Casserole
This isn’t just any breakfast casserole; it’s a celebration of classic breakfast flavors, elevated and simplified for your convenience. My family absolutely adores this bacon egg and hash brown casserole, especially for festive occasions like Christmas morning. However, its irresistible combination of simple ingredients and comforting flavors makes it ideal for a fun dinner, a luxurious weekend brunch, or even a hearty weekday meal when you’re craving something substantial.
What sets this breakfast bake apart is its perfect blend of a creamy egg custard base, savory crispy bacon, tender hash browns, and the most delightful cheesy goodness. It’s designed to be incredibly easy to prepare, allowing you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying delicious food with your loved ones. Plus, it’s fantastic for serving crowds, making it a go-to for potlucks, family gatherings, or holiday breakfasts where you need to feed many with minimal fuss.
Feel free to customize this versatile casserole by adding your favorite veggies for an extra boost of nutrition and color. Think bell peppers, spinach, or even some caramelized onions – the possibilities are endless! Much like my popular Cheesy Tater Tot Casserole and my comforting Crescent Roll Breakfast Casserole, this recipe brings together a medley of beloved breakfast elements that everyone at your table will undoubtedly enjoy. And for a truly unique twist, consider using leftover ham from my Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham – it adds an incredible depth of flavor that’s hard to beat!
What Our Readers Are Raving About…
“I absolutely love bacon, and this recipe was incredibly easy to make. Thank you so much for sharing such a wonderful dish, and your appetizing photos truly captured its deliciousness!”
– Scott
🧂 Gather Your Essential Ingredients
Creating this irresistible breakfast casserole starts with a selection of simple yet powerful ingredients that come together to form a symphony of flavor and texture. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and why each component is crucial:
- Eggs: These are the backbone of our casserole, binding all the delicious elements together into a cohesive, fluffy dish. They also provide a significant protein boost, making this a satisfying and energizing meal.
- Milk: When whisked with the eggs, milk creates a rich, creamy custard-like base that infuses moisture and a tender texture throughout the casserole. You can use any type of milk you prefer, from whole milk for extra richness to a non-dairy alternative.
- Pepper: A simple yet essential seasoning, pepper adds a subtle warmth and a gentle kick, enhancing the natural flavors of the bacon and other ingredients without overpowering them. Feel free to adjust the amount to your taste.
- Bread: Cubed bread acts as the foundational layer, soaking up the egg mixture and becoming wonderfully soft and savory during baking. While classic white bread is perfectly fine, feel free to experiment with sourdough, challah, or even whole wheat bread for a different flavor profile and added texture. Day-old bread works best as it absorbs liquids more effectively.
- Cooked Bacon: The star of the show! Crispy, salty, and wonderfully smoky bacon brings an incredible depth of flavor that is truly irresistible. Pre-cook your bacon to your desired crispness and chop it into bite-sized pieces for even distribution throughout the casserole.
- Mushrooms: Adding a layer of roughly chopped mushrooms introduces an earthy undertone and additional nutrients. They cook down beautifully within the casserole, adding a lovely umami flavor. If you’re not a fan of mushrooms, feel free to omit them or swap them for other vegetables.
- Hash Browns: For that ultimate hearty breakfast experience, frozen hash browns are a convenient and delicious addition. They provide a satisfying potato base and a slightly crispy texture, making the casserole more substantial and filling. No need to thaw them beforehand, but a slight thaw can help prevent sogginess (see FAQs).
- Shredded Cheese: What’s a breakfast casserole without cheese? I highly recommend using sharp cheddar cheese as its robust flavor pairs exceptionally well with the savory bacon. However, feel free to get creative with other melty cheeses like Monterey Jack, Colby, or a cheddar blend for a different twist.
With these ingredients at hand, you’re well on your way to creating a breakfast casserole that will be talked about long after the last bite!
🔪 Let’s Make This Irresistible Breakfast Casserole!
Get ready for an incredibly straightforward cooking process that yields a deeply satisfying meal. Follow these simple steps to bring your delicious Bacon and Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole to life. For precise measurements and a printable recipe card, feel free to scroll down or click here to jump right to the recipe card!
Step 1: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, vigorously whisk together the eggs, milk, and pepper until the mixture is well combined and slightly frothy. This creates the essential custard base for your casserole. Set this bowl aside for a moment.
Step 2: Prepare the Bread Base
Take your 9×13 inch casserole dish and spray it generously with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking. Evenly spread the cubed bread across the bottom of the dish. This layer will absorb the egg mixture and become deliciously tender and flavorful.
Step 3: Layer Savory Fillings
Next, evenly distribute the chopped cooked bacon over the bread layer. Follow this with a layer of chopped mushrooms. These ingredients will infuse the casserole with rich, savory notes as it bakes.
Step 4: Top with Hash Browns
Generously spread the hash browns over the bacon and mushroom layers. If using frozen hash browns, there’s no need to thaw them beforehand, as they will cook perfectly in the oven and add a delightful texture. For a crispier topping, consider lightly sautéing them first.
Step 5: Cheese, Egg Mixture & Bake!
To finish the assembly, evenly distribute the shredded cheddar cheese over the hash brown layer. Give your egg mixture another quick whisk and then carefully pour it over the entire casserole, ensuring all the ingredients are well-saturated. Allow the casserole to sit for 5-10 minutes before baking (or cover and refrigerate if prepping ahead). Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake uncovered for about 35 minutes, or until the eggs are fully set, the casserole is puffed, and the cheese is beautifully melted and golden brown. If you refrigerated it overnight, it may take an extra 10-15 minutes to bake through.
You can easily adapt this casserole to suit various needs. For instance, if you’re looking to save a little money without compromising on flavor, consider using turkey bacon instead of pork bacon. This is just one of many smart ingredient substitutions that can help you cut costs while still creating a delicious meal. It’s a fantastic strategy for any budget-conscious cook!
💡 Expert Tips and Tricks for a Flawless Casserole
Achieving breakfast casserole perfection is simple with a few insider tips:
- Embrace Stale Bread: Don’t throw away that day-old bread! It’s actually ideal for this recipe. Stale bread has a drier texture and will absorb the egg mixture much more effectively than fresh bread, leading to a perfectly set and uniformly moist casserole without any soggy spots.
- Quick Staling Hack: If you only have fresh bread, you can quickly stale it by cutting it into cubes and spreading it on a baking sheet. Bake at 250°F (120°C) for 10-15 minutes, or simply leave it out on the counter uncovered for a few hours before assembly.
- Prevent a Soggy Bottom: While frozen hash browns are convenient, they can sometimes release moisture. To mitigate this, you can lightly press them between paper towels if you choose to thaw them slightly, or even give them a quick sauté in a pan before adding them to the casserole. This extra step helps ensure a crispier texture.
- Achieve a Golden Crust: For an extra crispy, beautifully golden-brown top, place your baked casserole under the broiler for 1-2 minutes after it’s done. Watch it very closely to prevent the cheese from burning – it can go from perfect to charred in a flash!
- Seasoning is Key: Don’t be shy with seasoning. Besides pepper, consider adding a pinch of garlic powder, onion powder, or a dash of smoked paprika to the egg mixture for additional layers of flavor that complement the bacon and cheese.
- Even Distribution: Ensure your bacon, mushrooms, and cheese are evenly spread throughout the casserole. This guarantees that every single bite is packed with all the wonderful flavors and textures.
❔ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are answers to some common questions about making the perfect breakfast casserole:
Sogginess often comes from excess moisture. If you’re using frozen hash browns, they can carry a lot of water. It’s helpful to let them thaw slightly and even pat them dry with paper towels to remove some of that excess moisture. Additionally, giving the assembled casserole a bit of time (5-10 minutes, or even overnight if making ahead) before baking allows the bread to fully absorb the egg mixture, preventing a watery consistency.
While you don’t absolutely *have* to thaw frozen hash browns before baking (they will cook through in the oven), letting them thaw slightly can be beneficial. Thawing allows you to press out some of the excess moisture, which can help prevent a soggy casserole and contribute to a crispier texture once baked. If you’re pressed for time, they can go straight in from frozen, just be mindful of potential added moisture.
The primary difference often lies in their cooking vessel and structure. A frittata is typically cooked in an oven-safe skillet on the stovetop and then finished in the oven, resulting in a dense, egg-forward dish that usually doesn’t include a significant starchy base like bread or potatoes. Breakfast casseroles, on the other hand, are baked entirely in a baking dish and often incorporate substantial starchy components like bread cubes, hash browns, or tater tots, along with meats, vegetables, and plenty of cheese, creating a heartier and more layered meal.
Absolutely! In fact, preparing this casserole the night before and letting it chill in the refrigerator allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the bread to fully soak up the egg mixture. This results in an even more flavorful and perfectly textured casserole. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and bake as directed the next morning, allowing for a slightly longer baking time.
The casserole is fully cooked when the eggs are set, the center is no longer jiggly, and the top is golden brown and bubbly. You can also insert a knife into the center; if it comes out clean, your casserole is ready. The edges should also be firm and slightly pulled away from the sides of the dish.
📝 Substitutions and Variations to Customize Your Casserole
This Bacon and Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole is wonderfully adaptable! Feel free to get creative and tailor it to your family’s preferences or whatever ingredients you have on hand:
- Add More Veggies: For a vibrant and nutritious boost, incorporate finely diced bell peppers (red, yellow, or green), fresh spinach (wilted first), chopped tomatoes, or even sautéed onions. These additions not only enhance flavor but also add beautiful color.
- Switch Up the Protein: While bacon is fantastic, you can easily swap it or add other proteins. Cooked breakfast sausage (crumbled), diced ham (especially delicious with holiday leftovers), or even ground turkey are excellent choices for a different flavor profile or a lighter result. For a vegetarian option, consider plant-based sausage crumbles.
- Explore Different Cheeses: Don’t limit yourself to cheddar! A blend of cheeses like Monterey Jack, mild mozzarella, or spicy pepper jack can introduce new dimensions of flavor and melt beautifully. Gruyere or Swiss cheese can also add a sophisticated touch.
- Heartier Bread Options: For extra fiber and a chewier texture, try using whole grain bread, robust sourdough, or even a flavorful rye bread for your cubed base. Each will impart a unique character to the casserole.
- Boost the Seasoning: Elevate the flavor with additional seasonings. A pinch of garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, or a blend of dried herbs like parsley, oregano, or rosemary can transform the casserole. A dash of hot sauce in the egg mixture could also add a welcome kick!
- Make it Spicy: For those who love heat, add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the egg mixture or top with sliced jalapeños before baking.
Kristin’s Kitchen Tip
If you’re worried about your mushrooms or hash browns not cooking thoroughly or prefer a slightly crisper texture, take a moment to lightly sauté them in a pan before adding them to the casserole dish. This pre-cooking step guarantees they’ll be perfectly tender and flavorful in the final dish!
🥡 Storage and Reheating Tips
This casserole is fantastic for meal prep and leftovers! To store any remaining portions, allow the casserole to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep beautifully in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. For reheating, the oven is your best friend: place individual slices on a baking sheet and reheat at 300°F (150°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through, to maintain that lovely crispy exterior. If you’re in a hurry, individual portions can also be microwaved, though the texture might be slightly softer.
⏳ Make-Ahead Instructions for Stress-Free Mornings
One of the best features of this Bacon and Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole is how perfectly it lends itself to make-ahead preparation. Assembling it the night before isn’t just a time-saver; it actually enhances the flavor and texture! Allowing the casserole to sit overnight in the fridge gives the bread ample time to absorb the rich egg mixture, ensuring every bite is moist and flavorful. The ingredients also have a chance to meld together, developing a deeper, more cohesive taste profile. Simply cover the assembled dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. The next morning, pull it out, preheat your oven, and bake. You’ll enjoy a delicious, hot breakfast with minimal effort when you need it most!
Keep It Handy for Later!
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🍴 What To Serve With This Hearty Casserole
This savory bacon, egg, and potato casserole is wonderfully satisfying on its own, but pairing it with complementary dishes can elevate your meal to a true feast! When serving something so rich and hearty, I love to balance it with lighter, fresher, or slightly sweet accompaniments. Here are some fantastic ideas:
- Fresh Fruit: A vibrant and healthy counterpoint. A simple Berry Delicious Fruit Salad or a tropical medley of pineapple, melon, and grapes offers a refreshing contrast.
- Smoothies: For a quick and nutritious boost, a fruit smoothie is perfect. My zesty Pineapple Orange Smoothie would be a delightful pairing, adding a bright, citrusy note.
- Baked Goods: Light, sweet pastries provide a lovely balance. Consider a slice of warm Eggless Banana Bread or a delicate scone.
- Yogurt Parfait: Layers of creamy yogurt, crunchy granola, and fresh berries make for a beautiful and healthy side. You can even use my homemade Strawberry Granola!
- Hot Beverages: Don’t forget the classics! Freshly brewed coffee, hot tea, or a glass of orange juice are always welcome additions to any breakfast spread.
😋 More Delicious Breakfast Recipes You’ll Love
If you enjoyed this hearty breakfast casserole, you’re sure to love these other fantastic morning meal ideas from my kitchen:
- Slow Cooker Breakfast Burritos – These burritos are incredibly easy to customize with your favorite fillings and are perfect for a grab-and-go breakfast during a busy week.
- Pumpkin Pancakes with Pancake Mix – Embrace the cozy flavors of fall with these simple yet delicious pumpkin pancakes, ideal for a chilly morning.
- Lemon Poppyseed Muffins – Bright, zesty, and perfectly sweet, these muffins are a delightful addition to any breakfast spread or as a refreshing afternoon snack.
- Easy Breakfast Sliders – A fun, handheld option for breakfast or brunch, perfect for feeding a crowd with minimal effort, courtesy of our friends at Butter Your Biscuit!
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Need help with dinner?
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- 24 quick, incredibly delicious recipes for any day of the week
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Loved This Baked Bacon Egg Casserole?
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📋 Recipe Card: Bacon and Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole
Bacon and Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole
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Ingredients
- 6 large eggs
- 1 ¾ cups milk (whole or 2% recommended)
- ¾ teaspoon black pepper
- 8 ounces day-old bread, cubed (approximately 8 slices of white or sourdough)
- 1 pound cooked bacon, roughly chopped (crispy is best!)
- 1 cup white mushrooms, roughly chopped (about 5 ounces, optional)
- 1 cup frozen hash browns (shredded or diced, no need to thaw)
- 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). If you are preparing this casserole the night before for an overnight chill, you can skip preheating for now and do it in the morning.
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In a medium mixing bowl, beat the eggs, milk, and pepper until well combined and slightly frothy. This creates your rich egg custard base. Set this bowl aside.6 large eggs, 1 ¾ cups milk, ¾ teaspoon black pepper
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Lightly spray a 9×13 inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray. Evenly spread the cubed bread across the bottom of the prepared dish, forming the base of your casserole.8 ounces day-old bread, cubed
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Next, layer your savory fillings on top of the bread. Start with the cooked bacon, spreading it evenly. Then add the chopped mushrooms over the bacon layer.1 pound cooked bacon, roughly chopped, 1 cup white mushrooms, roughly chopped
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Evenly spread the frozen hash browns over the mushroom layer. There’s no need to thaw them; they’ll cook perfectly in the oven.1 cup frozen hash browns
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Finally, distribute the shredded sharp cheddar cheese evenly across the top of the hash browns. Give your reserved egg mixture another good stir, then slowly and evenly pour it over the entire casserole, making sure the bread and all layers are well-saturated.1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
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For Make-Ahead: If you’re preparing this the night before, cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator. In the morning, remove from the fridge and let it sit on the counter for 15-20 minutes while the oven preheats. Otherwise, if baking immediately, let the assembled dish stand at room temperature for 5-10 minutes to allow the bread to begin absorbing the liquid.
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Bake the casserole uncovered in the preheated oven for 35 minutes. If baking directly from the refrigerator (make-ahead version), it may require an additional 10-15 minutes of baking time. The casserole is done when the eggs are fully set (no jiggle in the center), the edges are lightly browned, and the cheese is melted and bubbly. For an extra golden top, you can briefly broil it for 1-2 minutes at the end, watching carefully to prevent burning.
Notes
- To prep in advance: Assemble the entire casserole the night before, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. This allows the bread to thoroughly soak in the egg mixture, resulting in a more flavorful and moist casserole. Simply bake in the morning (allowing a bit of extra time if baking from cold).
- For added nutrition and vibrant color: Feel free to incorporate other vegetables like finely diced bell peppers, fresh spinach (lightly wilted first), or chopped scallions. Sautéing them slightly before adding them to the casserole can enhance their flavor and ensure even cooking.
- Protein Swaps: Easily change up the main protein! Use cooked breakfast sausage, diced ham (perfect for using up holiday leftovers), or even a vegetarian sausage alternative for a different taste profile.
- Cheese, Please!: Experiment with a mix of cheeses for a more complex flavor. Monterey Jack, Swiss, Colby, or a touch of spicy pepper jack can offer a wonderful twist to the classic cheddar.
- Bread Choices: For a heartier casserole with more fiber, opt for whole-grain bread or robust sourdough bread cubes. Their texture and flavor will beautifully complement the other ingredients.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve this savory casserole alongside fresh fruit, a light yogurt parfait, or your favorite breakfast beverages like coffee or juice to create a complete and satisfying meal for any brunch or breakfast gathering.
Additional Serving Suggestions
- Garnishes: Top individual servings with freshly chopped green onions, a sprinkle of fresh parsley or cilantro, or a dollop of sour cream for an extra touch of freshness and creaminess. A side of your favorite salsa can also add a delightful zing.
- Sweet & Savory Balance: To perfectly balance the rich flavors of the casserole, pair it with something on the sweeter side, like a homemade fruit compote, maple syrup on the side for a touch of sweetness, or a side of crispy waffles or pancakes.
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Nutrition
Nutritional information is an estimate. The nutritional values for your final dish may vary based on measuring differences and products used.
Update Notes: This post was originally published in February 2015, and was republished with enhanced tips, detailed step-by-step photos, and a refined recipe in November 2024 to bring you the very best version of this beloved dish.
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