Cozy Farmers Casserole Recipe: Hearty Comfort in Every Bite

Hearty breakfast casseroles bring comfort to your morning table with this delightful farmers casserole packed with savory ingredients.

Potato and egg combinations never tasted so good.

Crispy bacon adds a satisfying crunch that makes every bite memorable.

Cheesy layers meld perfectly with tender vegetables and protein-rich eggs.

Weekend brunch enthusiasts will adore this simple yet impressive dish.

Layers of flavor promise a meal that feels both rustic and elegant.

You’ll want to make this recipe again and again for weekend gatherings.

FAQs

• Can I use frozen hash browns directly?

No, you must thaw the hash browns first. Frozen hash browns will release excess moisture and make the casserole soggy.

• Is it okay to substitute the ham?

Yes, you can replace ham with cooked bacon, sausage, or even leave it out for a vegetarian version.

• Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble the casserole the night before, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready, adding 10-15 minutes to cooking time.

• What cheeses work best in this recipe?

Cheddar and monterey jack are recommended, but you can also use swiss, pepper jack, or a blend of your favorite cheeses.

Why Farmers Casserole Warms the Heart

• Breeze Through Breakfast: This farmers casserole offers a simple, straightforward method that even novice cooks can master without stress.
• Customize Your Comfort: Swap ham for bacon, add different veggies, or experiment with cheese varieties to make this recipe uniquely yours.
• Meal Prep Magic: Prepare the entire casserole ahead of time and refrigerate overnight, then bake fresh in the morning for a stress-free breakfast solution.
• Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Perfect for feeding a hungry family or hosting weekend brunch, this hearty dish satisfies multiple appetites with minimal effort.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Farmers Casserole

• Hash Browns: Frozen potato shreds that form the foundation of this hearty casserole.
• Eggs: Primary binding agent that helps set the casserole and provide protein.
• Evaporated Milk: Creamy dairy product that adds richness and helps create a smooth texture.

• Ham: Diced meat that adds savory flavor and protein to the dish.
• Cheddar Cheese, Monterey Jack Cheese: Sharp and mild cheeses that melt beautifully and provide a creamy, tangy element.

• Salt, Pepper: Classic seasonings that enhance the overall flavor of the casserole.
• Green Onions: Optional fresh herb that adds a mild, oniony brightness to the top of the dish.

Step-by-Step Farmers Casserole Preparation

Step 1: Fire Up the Oven

Crank the oven to a toasty 350°F (175°C) and get ready for a delicious adventure.

Step 2: Prep the Baking Dish

Grab your 9×13 inch baking dish and give it a generous coating of cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Create the Potato Foundation

Spread the thawed hash browns across the bottom of the dish, creating an even, golden base for your casserole masterpiece.

Step 4: Layer the Savory Goodness

• Diced ham
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Shredded monterey jack cheese

Step 5: Whip Up the Creamy Egg Mixture

• Eggs
• Evaporated milk
• Salt
• Black pepper

Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well combined.

Step 6: Pour and Distribute

Gently pour the egg mixture over the layers of ham, cheese, and potatoes, ensuring everything gets a nice coating.

Step 7: Add a Fresh Touch

Sprinkle chopped green onions across the top for a pop of color and extra flavor.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

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

You’ll know it’s done when the center is set and the top turns a beautiful golden brown.

Step 9: Rest and Serve

Let the casserole cool for a few minutes to set, then slice and serve up this crowd-pleasing breakfast wonder.

Pro Tips for Farmers Casserole

• Replace hash browns with tater tots or cubed russet potatoes for a different texture and flavor profile.
• Add cooked crumbled bacon or diced turkey sausage to increase protein content and create more depth in the dish.
• Substitute ham with diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or plant-based protein alternatives like tofu or meat substitutes.
• Pat hash browns dry with paper towels to prevent excess liquid and ensure a crispy, well-set casserole bottom.
• Prepare the casserole ahead, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

Flavor Variations for Farmers Casserole

• Vegetarian Farmers Casserole: Replace ham with crumbled tofu or plant-based sausage, using vegetable-based cheese alternatives for a meat-free version.
• Low-Carb Cauliflower Swap: Substitute hash browns with riced cauliflower for a keto-friendly option, maintaining the cheesy egg base.
• Spicy Mexican Fusion: Add diced jalapeños, swap cheddar for pepper jack cheese, and top with salsa and cilantro for a zesty southwestern flavor profile.
• Gluten-Free Comfort Dish: Ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free, using gluten-free hash browns and checking cheese and milk labels for potential gluten contamination.

How to Serve Farmers Casserole

• Breakfast Bonanza: Pair this hearty farmers casserole with crispy bacon strips for extra protein punch.
• Veggie Sidekick: Serve alongside fresh mixed green salad with light vinaigrette to balance the rich, cheesy flavors.
• Brunch Brilliance: Add a dollop of sour cream and fresh chopped chives on top for elegant weekend brunch presentation.
• Morning Companion: Enjoy with freshly squeezed orange juice or hot coffee to complete the satisfying meal experience.

Storage Advice for Farmers Casserole

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Cover the casserole tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to maintain freshness and prevent drying out.
• Wrap individual portions or the entire casserole in freezer-safe wrap or containers. Freeze for up to 2 months. Label with the date to track storage time.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Preheat oven to 350F. Cover with foil to prevent burning and warm for 15-20 minutes until heated through. Remove foil for the last 5 minutes to crisp the top.

Farmers Casserole Recipe

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4.7 from 34 reviews

• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Hearty farmers casserole delivers a comforting blend of eggs, potatoes, and cheese from Midwestern kitchens. Rich layers of flavor promise a satisfying meal you’ll eagerly share with family and friends.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 3 cups hash brown potatoes, thawed
• 4 eggs, lightly beaten
• 1 cup cooked ham, diced
• 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Liquid Ingredients:

• 1 can (12 ounces / 354 milliliters) evaporated milk

Seasonings and Optional Ingredients:

• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup green onions, chopped (optional)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the oven by heating to 350F (175C) and lightly coat a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray.
2. Create a uniform base layer of thawed hash browns across the bottom of the prepared dish.
3. Distribute diced ham evenly over the potato layer, then generously sprinkle both cheese varieties to cover the surface.
4. Combine eggs, evaporated milk, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl, whisking until thoroughly blended.
5. Carefully pour the egg mixture across the ham and cheese-covered potatoes, ensuring complete and even coverage.
6. Optionally, garnish the top with freshly chopped green onions for added flavor and color.
7. Transfer the casserole to the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 40-45 minutes, watching for a golden-brown surface and a firm, set center.
8. Remove from oven and allow the casserole to rest for 3-5 minutes, which helps the ingredients settle and makes slicing easier.
9. Cut into portions and serve warm, enjoying the layers of potato, cheese, and ham.

Notes

• Experiment with different cheese varieties like sharp cheddar or pepper jack for a flavor boost.
• Make this dish vegetarian by swapping ham with sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach.
• Prepare the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate overnight, then bake in the morning for an easy breakfast.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure eggs are fully cooked and the center reaches 160°F for food safety.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 325 kcal
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 550 mg
• Fat: 20 g
• Saturated Fat: 9 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Trans Fat: 0.5 g
• Carbohydrates: 18 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 19 g
• Cholesterol: 180 mg