Ham Egg and Cheese Hash Brown Casserole {Farmers Breakfast Casserole}

Looking for a hearty breakfast that feeds a crowd? This easy ham egg and cheese hash brown casserole ticks all the boxes. And it’s super easy to make and loaded with your favorite breakfast flavors.

This egg casserole give me Denver omelet vibes but in baked form. Made with eggs, ham, lots of melty cheese and frozen hash browns, this recipe makes enough to feed the whole family. But the best part is you toss everything in one dish, bake it up and it’s ready to serve.

One of the things we love most about this easy breakfast recipe is how versatile it is. You can switch up the ingredients to use what you have on hand or to accommodate picky eaters. And it’s a great way to use up leftover holiday ham. Look for more ingredient ideas further down.

We love making breakfast casserole recipes like my cousin Betty’s overnight breakfast casserole for lazy weekends, brunch or holiday breakfast. They’re usually hassle-free to make, no standing over the stove flipping omelets and one dish feeds everyone. It’s also a great choice if you have breakfast for dinner nights. 

And if you’re into meal prepping, you can make a batch over the weekend, Then all you have to do is reheat slices for grab-and-go-breakfasts throughout the week. 

If you enjoy easy brunch recipes, you might also like my Hawaiian roll breakfast sliders or my crescent roll quiche cups.

Ham Egg and Cheese Hash Brown Casserole Ingredients

• Eggs – The base of the casserole, they add protein, bake up fluffy and hold everything together.
• Evaporated milk – Adds creaminess and makes it rich without being heavy.
• Salt & black pepper – These simple seasonings give extra flavor without overpowering the dish.
• Frozen hash browns – A time-saving shortcut that makes the egg bake hearty and filling.
• Colby jack cheese – Melts beautifully and adds that cheesy, gooey finish everyone loves.
• Diced ham – This breakfast staple adds protein and is a great way to use up leftover ham from the holidays.
• Green onions – Adds freshness and a mild, zesty kick to brighten up the casserole.

How to Make Cheesy Hash Brown Casserole with Ham

Preheat oven and grease a large baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.

Whisk together the eggs, evaporated milk, salt, and pepper in a large bowl until smooth.

Place the shredded potatoes in an even layer in the bottom of the baking dish.

Next you’ll sprinkle the shredded cheese, ham, and green onions on top of the potatoes.

Then pour the egg mixture over the top.

Bake uncovered until the center is set and the edges are golden brown. You can test for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center of the dish – if it comes out clean it’s done.

Let cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Recipe Substitutions & Variations

• Meat – Most breakfast meats can be used in place of the ham. Try cooked breakfast sausage, bacon, leftover holiday ham, or even turkey sausage.
• Cheese – Use a “melty variety” like cheddar cheese, mozzarella, pepper jack cheese, or a blend.
• Hash browns – Swap with shredded potatoes or diced breakfast potatoes.
• Veggies – Try adding peppers, onions, mushrooms, or spinach.
• Spicy – If you like a little heat, mix in a dash of red pepper to the egg mixture or top slices with hot sauce just before serving.
• Mini bakes – Bake in muffin tins for individual-sized portions.

Can I make breakfast casserole with potatoes and ham ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the casserole as directed in an oven-safe baking dish, then cover and refrigerate overnight. When you’re ready to bake it the next morning you may need to add 20-30 minutes to the bake time if you’re starting with a cold casserole. 

What to Serve with Ham and Cheese Hash Brown Casserole

I like to pair this hearty breakfast casserole with a lighter side like a fresh fruit salad with honey lime dressing. For brunch spreads serve it with a breakfast charcuterie board. Or make a batch of Instant Pot oatmeal or air fryer French toast muffins to round out the meal.

How to Store Farmer’s Breakfast Casserole 

Keep the leftover egg bake in an airtight container or wrapped tightly with plastic wrap, in the refrigerator for 4-5 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave and it’s just as good the next morning. 

Can I freeze hash brown breakfast casserole?

Absolutely. Bake the dish as directed, then let it cool completely before cutting into portions. Tightly wrap the individual pieces with plastic wrap before storing them in a freezer bag or container for up to 2 months. Reheat pieces in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?

Yes, you can! Shred or dice the potatoes then pat them dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture before layering them in the dish. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly.

How do I know when the egg bake is done?

The center should be firm and no longer jiggly. You can test by using a toothpick inserted in the middle of the casserole – it will come out clean when it’s done.

This ham and cheese hash brown egg bake is the kind of breakfast dish you’ll keep coming back to. It’s hearty and flexible enough to work for holidays, weekend brunches, or meal prepping.

So give it a try to see what all the buzz is about (and be ready to make it on repeat when it becomes a new family favorite).