Creamy Cheddar Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole Recipe
A hearty and comforting Breakfast Casserole combining crispy hash browns, sharp cheddar cheese, and a rich custard of eggs and cream, enhanced with a blend of spices and green onions for a flavorful morning meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Breakfast Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Custard Mixture
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
Main Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons salted butter, melted
- 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 pound frozen hash browns, thawed
- 4 green onions, white and green parts chopped, plus more for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a casserole dish with the melted butter to prevent sticking and add flavor to the casserole.
- Combine Hash Browns and Cheese: In a large bowl, mix the thawed hash browns and shredded cheddar cheese until they are evenly combined. Then, spread this mixture evenly in the prepared casserole dish to form the base layer.
- Prepare Egg Mixture: In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, sea salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and heavy whipping cream until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Add Green Onions: Stir the chopped green onions into the egg mixture for added flavor.
- Pour Egg Mixture Over Hash Browns: Carefully pour the egg mixture evenly over the hash browns and cheese in the casserole dish, ensuring it covers all ingredients.
- Bake the Casserole: Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden, the casserole is set in the middle, and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before garnishing with additional chopped green onions if desired. Serve warm as a flavorful breakfast or brunch option.
Notes
- Make sure the hash browns are fully thawed to ensure even cooking.
- You can substitute cheddar cheese with other types like Monterey Jack or mozzarella for different flavor profiles.
- Adjust cayenne pepper to your heat preference or omit if sensitive to spice.
- This casserole can be prepared the night before; cover and refrigerate before baking in the morning.
- Use a 9×13 inch casserole dish or similar-sized baking dish.
