Description

Farmer’s Casserole is a hearty breakfast bake made with hash brown potatoes, diced ham, Monterey Jack cheese, green onions, and a savory egg custard. It’s easy to assemble, can be made ahead, and serves a crowd beautifully. Perfect for brunch, holidays, or meal prep!

Ingredients

Base:

3 cups frozen shredded hash brown potatoes, thawed
3/4 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (with peppers, if desired)
1 cup diced cooked ham (or cooked bacon/sausage)
1/4 cup chopped green onions

Custard:

4 large eggs
1 (12-ounce) can evaporated milk
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon salt

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Dish

Heat oven to 350°F. Grease your dish. I use butter. You do you.

Step 2: Prepare the Hash Browns

Thaw them all the way. Then dry them with paper towels. Any water left and you’re making soup.

Step 3: Layer the Base

Spread hash browns in the bottom of your dish. Make it even.

Step 4: Add the Toppings

Sprinkle cheese over the potatoes. Add ham. Throw on green onions. Try to spread it around.

Step 5: Make the Custard Mixture

Crack eggs in a bowl. Pour in evaporated milk. Add salt and pepper. Whisk until smooth.

Step 6: Pour and Soak

Pour custard over everything. Use a fork to poke it down in a few spots so it reaches the bottom.

Step 7: Bake to Golden Perfection

Bake 45-55 minutes. It’s done when a knife in the center comes out clean and the top’s golden. Your house will smell ridiculous.

Step 8: Rest Before Serving

Let it sit 5-10 minutes. Yes, I know you’re hungry. Wait anyway or it’ll fall apart when you cut it.

Notes

Test for doneness properly: Insert a butter knife near the center (not the edge) of the casserole. If it comes out clean or with just a tiny bit of moisture, you’re good to go!
Avoid overcooking: Once the center is set, take it out! Overbaking will make the eggs rubbery.
Mix your cheeses: Try half Monterey Jack and half sharp cheddar for more flavor complexity.
Sauté moisture-heavy additions first: If you’re adding bell peppers or mushrooms, cook them in a skillet first to release their water. Otherwise, they’ll make your casserole soggy.
Use a glass dish if possible: You can see the edges browning, which helps you gauge doneness.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45-55 minutes
Category: Breakfast
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American