A warm and hearty cheesy potato breakfast casserole is the perfect way to start your day. Packed with tender potatoes, melted cheese, and flavorful ingredients, this dish is comforting and easy to make. Whether you’re preparing it for a weekend brunch, a family gathering, or meal prepping for the week, this casserole is sure to be a hit.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and a straightforward preparation make this dish accessible for all cooking levels.
Crowd-Pleaser – Ideal for family breakfasts, brunch gatherings, or potlucks.
Make-Ahead Friendly – Assemble the night before and bake in the morning for a stress-free meal.
Customizable – Easily modify ingredients to suit your taste and dietary preferences.
Great for Meal Prep – Leftovers store well and can be reheated for quick and delicious meals throughout the week.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Potatoes (hash browns or diced potatoes)
Eggs
Milk
Shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
Cooked breakfast meat (bacon, sausage, or ham)
Onion
Bell peppers
Garlic powder
Salt and pepper

Directions

Preheat Oven – Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish.
Prepare the Ingredients – If using fresh potatoes, dice and parboil them. Cook the bacon or sausage and chop the vegetables.
Mix the Egg Mixture – In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Layer the Ingredients – Spread the potatoes evenly in the baking dish. Add the cooked meat, onions, and bell peppers. Pour the egg mixture over the top and sprinkle with cheese.
Bake – Cover with foil and bake for 35-40 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
Cool & Serve – Let the casserole sit for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6-8 people
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour

Variations

Vegetarian Option – Skip the meat and add extra vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini.
Spicy Kick – Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the egg mixture.
Different Cheeses – Swap cheddar for Swiss, pepper jack, or gouda for a unique flavor twist.
Protein Boost – Add black beans or chickpeas for additional protein.
Low-Carb Version – Substitute potatoes with cauliflower or a mix of low-carb vegetables.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigerator – Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer – Wrap individual portions in foil or store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
Reheating – Microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes or bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

How do I prevent the casserole from becoming watery?

Drain excess moisture from vegetables and meat before layering. If using frozen hash browns, thaw and pat them dry.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the casserole the night before, cover, and refrigerate. Bake fresh in the morning.

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?

Absolutely. Dice and parboil fresh potatoes before using them in the recipe.

What’s the best cheese for this casserole?

Cheddar is a classic choice, but you can mix it with mozzarella, Swiss, or pepper jack for more flavor.

Can I add more vegetables?

Yes, mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini make great additions without altering the texture too much.

How do I make it dairy-free?

Use a dairy-free cheese alternative and swap the milk for almond, soy, or oat milk.

Can I cook this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the eggs are fully set.

What type of meat works best?

Bacon, sausage, ham, or even shredded chicken can work well in this casserole.

How do I make this casserole crispier on top?

Bake uncovered for the last 15 minutes or broil for a couple of minutes to get a golden, crispy top.

Can I use egg substitutes?

Yes, liquid egg replacements or a mix of eggs and egg whites can be used to lighten the dish.

Conclusion

Cheesy potato breakfast casserole is a simple, delicious, and satisfying dish perfect for any breakfast or brunch occasion. With endless customization options and easy make-ahead steps, it’s a great addition to your meal rotation. Whether you’re serving a crowd or prepping meals for the week, this casserole will always be a favorite!