Cheesy, hearty, and packed with flavor, a Cheesy Hash Brown Egg Bake (Crowd-Pleasing Easter Brunch Casserole) is the ultimate dish for any brunch gathering. The crispy edges, tender middle, and melty cheese create a symphony of textures and tastes that will have everyone coming back for seconds. With a delightful blend of eggs, shredded hash browns, and your choice of bacon or sausage, this casserole stands out from the usual breakfast fare. It’s a fantastic way to serve a crowd without feeling overwhelmed, making it perfect for Easter or any festive occasion.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Cheesy Hash Brown Egg Bake (Crowd-Pleasing Easter Brunch Casserole)
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Cheesy Hash Brown Egg Bake (Crowd-Pleasing Easter Brunch Casserole)

Cheesy Hash Brown Egg Bake (Crowd-Pleasing Easter Brunch Casserole)

I remember the first time I made this casserole. It was Easter morning, and I wanted to impress my family without spending all my time in the kitchen. I prepped the ingredients the night before and popped it into the oven while we sat down to enjoy our coffee. The aroma wafted through the house, leaving everyone eagerly anticipating breakfast. When it was finally ready, the smiles were all the proof I needed that this dish would become a beloved family tradition. I can’t wait for you to try it!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: With just 20 minutes of prep time and 60 minutes in the oven, you can have a delicious brunch casserole that serves eight people.
Irresistible Flavor: Featuring the savory flavors of bacon or sausage, creamy cheese, and a hint of spice from the hot sauce, every bite is a delightful experience.
Eye-Catching Appeal: This casserole looks fantastic when served directly from the oven, with a golden-brown crust that invites everyone to dig in.
Flexible Serving: Whether for a holiday brunch, a casual get-together, or a hearty breakfast, this dish fits any occasion perfectly.
Diet-Friendly Options: Feel free to substitute turkey bacon, cottage cheese, or other ingredients for a lighter twist on this dish.

Ingredients You’ll Need

8 to 16 ounces chopped bacon or sausage: This adds a savory depth to the casserole. If you’re looking for a lighter option, turkey bacon or even veggies can work.
½ cup small diced onion or shallots: Enhances the overall flavor profile with a subtle sweetness. You can swap in green onions for a milder taste.
8 large eggs, lightly beaten: The base of the casserole, providing structure and protein. Use fresh eggs for the best results.
4-5 cups shredded hash browns, frozen or thawed: They create that comforting, crispy texture. If you prefer, diced potatoes can also be used in place of hash browns.
1 teaspoon hot sauce: Optional but recommended for a bit of kick; feel free to adjust according to your spice tolerance.
1 teaspoon salt: I prefer coarse kosher salt for a burst of flavor. You can use sea salt or table salt if that’s what you have.
¼ teaspoon pepper: This adds a little extra warmth; adjust to your personal preference.
¾ cup cottage cheese: Adds creaminess and a protein boost. For a healthier option, consider low-fat cottage cheese.
¾ cup sour cream: Contributes rich flavor and helps keep the casserole moist. Greek yogurt can be a good substitute.
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Opt for sharp cheddar for added flavor; you could mix in other cheeses if you like.
1 cup shredded swiss cheese: Provides a creamy melt; mozzarella can also be used in a pinch.
Chopped green onions or chives for garnish: Just before serving, these add a fresh touch and vibrant color.

How to Make Cheesy Hash Brown Egg Bake (Crowd-Pleasing Easter Brunch Casserole)

Preheat the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F. While it’s heating, lightly grease a 9X13-inch baking pan. This will prevent sticking and make for easy serving.

Cook the protein: In a large skillet over medium heat, add your chopped bacon or sausage along with the diced onion. Cook until everything is nicely browned and the bacon is crispy. Once it’s done, drain away any excess grease.

Mix the ingredients: In an oversized bowl, combine 8 lightly beaten eggs, 4-5 cups of shredded hash browns (whether frozen or thawed), and don’t forget that teaspoon of hot sauce if you’re feeling adventurous! Add in 1 teaspoon of salt, ¼ teaspoon of pepper, ¾ cup of cottage cheese, ¾ cup of sour cream, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, and 1 cup of shredded swiss cheese. Stir in the cooked bacon or sausage and onions until everything is well mixed.

Spread the mixture: Pour the casserole mix evenly into your prepared baking pan. Here’s a handy tip: If you’d like to prepare it the night before, cover it tightly and refrigerate until tomorrow.

Bake the casserole: Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake for about 40-45 minutes. The edges should be lightly golden, and the center will appear puffy. Test for doneness by inserting a thin knife into the center; it should come out clean. If your casserole has been in the fridge overnight, you may need to add 10-15 minutes to the baking time.

Garnish and serve: Once it’s beautifully baked, take it out of the oven and sprinkle with chopped green onions or chives for a fresh finish. Let it rest for about 5-10 minutes before cutting it into squares for serving.

Storing & Reheating

Leftover Cheesy Hash Brown Egg Bake can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to four days. If you want to keep it longer, freeze it for up to three months. To reheat, simply pop it in the oven at 350 degrees F for about 20-25 minutes, or until warmed through. Just a quick note: the texture may change slightly after freezing, but a splash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of fresh herbs can help reinvigorate the flavors.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Avoid overcooking the meat to keep it tender and flavorful. If using bacon, cook it just until crispy; overcooked bacon can become tough.
For a fluffier casserole, let the eggs sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before mixing.
If you prefer a firmer casserole, add an extra egg or two to improve the structure.
Feel free to sneak in some chopped spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition and color.
This casserole is great for meal prep; consider making a double batch and freezing one for later.

By combining all these flavors and textures into one casserole, you create not just a meal but a shareable experience. This Cheesy Hash Brown Egg Bake (Crowd-Pleasing Easter Brunch Casserole) isn’t just food; it’s a tradition waiting to be made.

Recipe FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole the night before and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it the next day. Just remember that baking time may increase slightly if it’s coming straight from the fridge.

What can I use instead of bacon or sausage?

There are plenty of tasty alternatives! You could use diced ham, turkey bacon, or even a mix of vegetables for a meatless option. Just make sure to adjust seasoning to keep the flavor balanced.

Can I freeze the casserole after baking?

Yes, this casserole freezes well! Just make sure to let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

How do I know when the casserole is done?

The casserole is ready when the edges are golden brown, it has risen in the middle, and a thin knife or toothpick inserted into the center emerges clean. If it jiggles in the center, give it a few more minutes in the oven.