Cheesy Potato Breakfast Casserole

Looking for a delicious, filling breakfast that will keep you satisfied all morning? Our Cheesy Potato Breakfast Casserole is the perfect dish for busy mornings or leisurely weekend brunches. Packed with cheesy goodness, tender potatoes, and a blend of savory ingredients, this casserole is a crowd-pleaser and a versatile dish that can be made ahead of time.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Potato Breakfast Casserole

1. Easy to Make: This recipe is simple to prepare, requiring just a few basic ingredients that are often already on hand. The prep time is minimal, and the oven does the rest.
2. Hearty & Filling: With potatoes, cheese, and eggs, this casserole is packed with protein and carbohydrates to fuel your day. It’s a complete meal in one dish.
3. Customizable: Add your favorite ingredients like bacon, sausage, or veggies for a personalized touch. Whether you like it extra cheesy or with a bit of spice, the options are endless.
4. Make-Ahead Friendly: You can assemble the casserole the night before, refrigerate it, and bake it in the morning for a quick, hassle-free breakfast.

Ingredients for Cheesy Potato Breakfast Casserole

• 1 pound of hash browns or diced potatoes (frozen or fresh)
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese)
• ½ cup cooked bacon or sausage (optional, for extra flavor)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced (optional)
• 6 large eggs
• 1 cup milk
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
• 1 teaspoon paprika (optional)

Instructions for Making Cheesy Potato Breakfast Casserole

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1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or butter.
2. Prepare the potatoes: If using frozen hash browns, thaw them first. Spread the potatoes evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
3. Add flavor: Sprinkle the cooked bacon or sausage, diced onion, and bell pepper over the potatoes. For added flavor, season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
4. Make the egg mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until smooth. Pour this mixture over the potato mixture in the baking dish, ensuring it’s evenly distributed.
5. Top with cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
6. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes or until the casserole is set in the middle and the cheese is golden and bubbly.
7. Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before cutting into squares. Serve hot with your favorite breakfast sides, such as fresh fruit or toast.

Tips for the Best Cheesy Potato Breakfast Casserole

• Use fresh potatoes: If you prefer fresh potatoes, you can dice and par-cook them before adding them to the casserole for an extra crispy texture.
• Add herbs: Fresh herbs like chives or parsley can be added to the casserole before baking for a burst of flavor.
• Make it spicy: Add a chopped jalapeño or some hot sauce for a kick of heat.
• Use a variety of cheese: Cheddar cheese is classic, but feel free to experiment with other types of cheese like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.

How to Make Ahead and Store

• Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole the night before, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, simply bake it for 40-45 minutes until golden and bubbly.
• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven for a quick breakfast or snack.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Potato Breakfast Casserole is the ultimate comfort food for any time of day. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or looking for a quick, satisfying meal for your family, this casserole will quickly become a favorite. With its delicious combination of potatoes, cheese, and eggs, it’s sure to become a go-to dish that everyone will love. Try it today, and enjoy a hearty, flavorful start to your day!

Serving Tips for Cheesy Potato Breakfast Casserole

1. Serve with Toppings: Enhance the flavor of your casserole by adding some fresh toppings. Sour cream, salsa, or avocado slices pair wonderfully with the cheesy potatoes. You can also sprinkle fresh herbs like chives, parsley, or cilantro for a burst of color and flavor.
2. Pair with Breakfast Sides: This casserole is a complete meal, but it can be served alongside other breakfast favorites such as:
   • Fresh fruit salad
   • Toast or biscuits
   • Crispy bacon or sausage links
   • A simple green salad for a lighter option
3. Individual Portions: For a fun twist, cut the casserole into individual portions and serve in ramekins or muffin tins, perfect for brunch or when serving guests.
4. Garnish: Top with a sprinkle of additional shredded cheese right before serving for an extra cheesy finish. A drizzle of hot sauce or a dollop of Greek yogurt can add a nice touch too.

Storage Tips for Cheesy Potato Breakfast Casserole

1. Refrigerating Leftovers: Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing it. Place leftovers in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This dish holds up well in the fridge and can easily be reheated.
2. Freezing: If you want to make this casserole in advance for a future meal, you can freeze it. Assemble the casserole as directed (but do not bake), cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to bake, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then bake as usual.
3. Reheating: To reheat leftovers, simply place the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, reheating in 1-minute intervals until hot.
4. Reheating Tips: If the casserole looks dry after reheating, you can sprinkle a little milk or add a bit more shredded cheese on top before reheating to restore moisture and flavor.

By following these serving and storage tips, you can enjoy your Cheesy Potato Breakfast Casserole even after the main meal is done! It’s a great make-ahead option that saves you time and allows you to enjoy delicious, hearty breakfasts throughout the week.

1. Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?
Yes, you can use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns. Simply dice the potatoes and par-cook them by boiling or sautéing them for a few minutes to soften. This ensures they cook evenly in the casserole. You can also choose to peel or leave the skins on for added texture.

2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole the night before, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate it overnight. In the morning, simply bake it as directed, adding a few extra minutes of cook time if needed. This makes it a great make-ahead option for busy mornings or brunches.

3. How do I store leftovers?
Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage. To freeze, assemble the casserole (without baking), cover it tightly, and freeze for up to 2-3 months. Be sure to thaw it overnight in the fridge before baking.

4. Can I add meat or vegetables to this casserole?
Yes, feel free to customize the casserole by adding cooked bacon, sausage, or even veggies like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms. Adding these ingredients will enhance the flavor and make the casserole even more filling. Just make sure to cook any meats or vegetables before adding them to the casserole to ensure even cooking.

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