Hearty Farmers Casserole Recipe

The Heartwarming Farmers Casserole Recipe Everyone Adores

A hearty farmers casserole brings comfort and nostalgia to any kitchen table, promising warmth in every delightful bite.

Breakfast enthusiasts will adore this simple yet satisfying dish packed with robust flavors.

Crispy potatoes, melted cheese, and savory ham create a perfect morning melody.

Mornings become magical when this casserole emerges from the oven, filling the room with irresistible aromas.

Layered ingredients blend seamlessly, offering a harmonious mix of textures and tastes.

Home cooks appreciate how quickly this meal comes together with minimal preparation.

Fresh ingredients make all the difference in crafting this mouthwatering breakfast classic.

Dive into this recipe and discover a new family favorite that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients for Farmers Casserole

Main Ingredients:
  • Hash Browns: Shredded potatoes that form the hearty base of this comforting casserole.
  • Ham: Diced protein that adds a savory and salty flavor to the dish.
  • Cheese: Melts beautifully and provides a rich, creamy texture to the casserole.
  • Eggs: Essential binding ingredient that helps set the casserole and create a fluffy texture.
Liquid and Seasoning:
  • Evaporated Milk: Adds richness and helps create a smooth, creamy consistency.
  • Salt, Pepper: Classic seasonings that enhance the overall flavor of the casserole.
Optional Garnish:
  • Parsley, Green Onions: Fresh herbs that can add a bright, fresh touch to the finished dish.

How to Prepare Farmers Casserole

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Crank the oven to a cozy 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Grab your baking dish and give it a quick spray or butter rub to prevent any sticky situations.

Step 2: Create the Potato Foundation

Spread those crispy hash browns across the bottom of the dish, creating a delicious potato carpet. Sprinkle diced ham and a generous layer of cheese on top, making sure everything is evenly distributed.

Step 3: Whip Up the Creamy Egg Mixture

In a mixing bowl, crack open some fresh eggs and pour in evaporated milk. Season with a pinch of salt and a dash of pepper.

Whisk everything together until the mixture looks smooth and well-blended.

Step 4: Pour and Combine

Gently cascade the egg mixture over the hash browns, ham, and cheese.

Watch as it seeps into all the delicious nooks and crannies, promising a mouthwatering blend of flavors.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Slide the dish into the preheated oven and let it bake uncovered.

Keep an eye on it for 45-55 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the eggs are set and the top turns a beautiful golden brown.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Allow the casserole to cool and settle for about 5 minutes. This helps the dish set and makes cutting and serving a breeze.

Slice into hearty portions and enjoy your comforting breakfast masterpiece.

Tips for Farmers Casserole

  • Swap regular potatoes with sweet potatoes for a nutritious twist and added vitamin boost.
  • Prepare the casserole night before and refrigerate, allowing flavors to meld beautifully overnight.
  • Use turkey ham or bacon as lean protein alternatives for a lighter version of the dish.
  • Sprinkle fresh herbs like chives or parsley on top for vibrant color and extra flavor complexity.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days, reheating gently to maintain texture.

Variations for Farmers Casserole

  • Vegetarian Veggie Delight: Replace ham with sautéed bell peppers, spinach, and mushrooms for a plant-based version.
  • Gluten-Free Comfort: Use gluten-free hash browns and ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free for those with dietary restrictions.
  • Low-Carb Protein Power: Swap hash browns with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles to reduce carbohydrate content while maintaining flavor.
  • Spicy Mexican Fusion: Add diced jalapeños, swap regular cheese with pepper jack, and sprinkle chopped cilantro for a zesty southwestern kick.

Serving Suggestions for Farmers Casserole

  • Breakfast Brunch Centerpiece: Create a stunning morning spread by placing the casserole as the star attraction, surrounding it with fresh fruit, crispy bacon, and a small pitcher of maple syrup.
  • Weekend Family Feast: Slice the casserole into generous portions and serve with a side of garden-fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal that brings everyone together.
  • Meal Prep Champion: Portion the casserole into individual containers for easy grab-and-go breakfasts during busy weekdays, reheating quickly in the microwave for a delicious morning meal.
  • Potluck Party Pleaser: Transport the entire casserole in a portable carrier, keeping it warm and becoming the most popular dish at community gatherings or friend get-togethers.

Storage Tips for Farmers Casserole

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
  • Cover the casserole tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent moisture loss.
  • Refrigerate within 2 hours of cooking to maintain food safety.
  • Freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 1 month.

FAQs

  • Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the casserole the night before and refrigerate. Simply cover it with foil and bake the next morning, adding 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.

  • Is it okay to use different types of meat?

Absolutely! You can substitute ham with bacon, sausage, or even turkey bacon for variety. Just ensure the meat is pre-cooked before adding to the casserole.

  • Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, replace the ham with diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach. You can also add extra cheese for more protein and flavor.

Farmers Casserole Flavor Profile

  • Simplify Breakfast Prep: Gather ingredients, layer them in a dish, and let the oven do the work, making morning meals a breeze.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: Packed with hearty hash browns, savory ham, and melted cheese, this casserole satisfies everyone from kids to adults.
  • Versatile Meal Solution: Perfect for weekend brunches, potlucks, or feeding a hungry family, this dish adapts to any gathering with its delicious blend of flavors.
  • No-Fuss Cooking Technique: Minimal prep and hands-off baking mean you can relax while a delectable breakfast comes together effortlessly in one pan.
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Hearty Farmers Casserole Recipe

Hearty Farmers Casserole Recipe


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4.7 from 10 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Hearty farmers casserole brings together rustic comfort and wholesome ingredients from rural kitchens. Savory layers of potatoes, eggs, and cheese create a satisfying meal that nourishes both body and soul.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 3 cups frozen hash brown potatoes
  • 1 cup diced ham
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 4 large eggs

Dairy and Liquid Ingredients:

  • 1 cup evaporated milk

Seasonings and Optional Ingredients:

  • 2 tablespoons chopped green onions
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Prepare the oven by heating to 350F (175C) and lightly coat a baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
  2. Create a uniform base layer of hash browns across the bottom of the prepared dish, ensuring complete coverage.
  3. Distribute diced ham evenly over the hash brown foundation, then generously sprinkle shredded cheese on top.
  4. Craft the custard mixture by thoroughly blending eggs with evaporated milk, incorporating salt and pepper until smooth and well-integrated.
  5. Carefully cascade the egg blend across the layered hash browns, ham, and cheese, allowing liquid to seep through all ingredients.
  6. Transfer the casserole to the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes, monitoring until the surface turns golden brown and the center sets completely.
  7. Remove from oven and allow the casserole to rest and stabilize for 5 minutes, which helps firm the texture and makes serving easier.

Notes

  • Customize the casserole by swapping ham with crispy bacon, cooked sausage, or diced turkey for varied protein options.
  • Reduce fat content by using low-fat cheese, egg whites, and skim evaporated milk without compromising flavor.
  • Enhance vegetable content by adding sautéed spinach, bell peppers, or chopped onions for extra nutrition and texture.
  • Make it gluten-free by ensuring all ingredients are certified gluten-free, especially the hash browns and cheese.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 50 minutes
  • Category: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 280 kcal
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 600 mg
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 7 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 12 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 15 g
  • Cholesterol: 220 mg
Amanda Bennett

Amanda Bennett

Recipe Curator & Culinary Educator

Expertise

Baking and Pastry Arts, Recipe Testing and Development, Culinary Instruction, Food Styling and Photography

Education

​Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College, Asheville, NC
​Diploma in Culinary Arts
Emphasized practical cooking skills, nutrition, and kitchen management.​

Cambridge School of Culinary Arts, Cambridge, MA
Certificate in Professional Pastry Arts
Specialized in baking techniques, dessert presentation, and flavor profiling


Amanda’s roots run deep in the Southern hills, where every meal started fresh from the garden and every dessert came with a story. She trained at Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College and sharpened her pastry skills at the Cambridge School of Culinary Arts, blending classic technique with everyday charm.
At The Liffey, Amanda’s passion is making baking and home cooking feel natural and joyful. She’s all about single recipes that are simple enough for a busy afternoon, but special enough to make someone’s day a little sweeter.

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