Why This Recipe Is a Keeper
Before we dive into the method, here is why this hash brown patty casserole will become a favorite.
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Only a handful of ingredients. Simple and affordable.
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Great for breakfast, brunch, or dinner.
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One dish. Minimal cleanup.
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Hearty and cheesy. Rich, satisfying, and delicious.
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Crowd-pleasing. Everyone loves hash browns and cheese.
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Budget-friendly. Hash browns, ham, and eggs are inexpensive.
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Perfect for busy weeknights and holidays.
Ingredients
Servings: 6
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8 to 10 frozen hash brown patties (enough to cover the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish in a single layer)
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2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
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1 1/2 cups diced cooked ham
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4 large eggs
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2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
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1 teaspoon kosher salt
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1/2 teaspoon black pepper
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Cooking spray or 1 tablespoon butter for greasing the dish
Ingredient Notes
Hash brown patties: Use frozen hash brown patties. Do not thaw them before baking.
Cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar provides bold flavor. Divide into 1 cup and 1 cup.
Ham: Use diced cooked ham.
Eggs and milk: Create the custard base.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch glass baking dish.
Step 2: Arrange the Hash Browns
Arrange the frozen hash brown patties in a single, even layer in the bottom of the baking dish.
Step 3: Add the Cheese and Ham
Sprinkle 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the frozen patties, followed by the diced ham.
Step 4: Make the Egg Mixture
In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
Step 5: Pour the Egg Mixture
Slowly pour the egg and milk mixture evenly over the hash brown patties, ham, and cheese.
Step 6: Top with Cheese
Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar evenly over the top.
Step 7: Bake
Bake for 40 to 50 minutes, until the casserole is puffed and the cheese is melted and golden.
Step 8: Rest and Serve
Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving.
How to Serve Hash Brown Patty Casserole
This hearty, cheesy casserole is delicious on its own, but a few accompaniments make it even better.
With Fresh Fruit: Serve with berries or sliced fruit.
With a Green Salad: A simple salad cuts through the richness.
With Salsa: A dollop of salsa adds brightness.
With Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds tang.
With Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle with parsley or chives.
Variations & Tips
Make It with Sausage: Substitute cooked sausage for the ham.
Make It with Bacon: Use crumbled bacon.
Make It with Vegetables: Add sautéed onions or bell peppers.
Make It with Different Cheese: Use Monterey Jack or pepper jack.
Make It with Mushrooms: Add sliced mushrooms.
Make It with Herbs: Add thyme or parsley.
Make It with Spice: Add red pepper flakes.
Make It Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free.
Make It in a Slow Cooker: Cook on LOW for 3 to 4 hours.
Pro Tips for Absolute Success
Do not thaw the hash brown patties. They crisp better when frozen.
Do not overbake. The casserole should be set but not dry.
Let the casserole rest before serving. This allows it to set.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different potato?
Yes. Shredded hash browns can be used.
Can I use a different meat?
Yes. Sausage or bacon can be used.
Can I use a different cheese?
Yes. Monterey Jack or provolone can be used.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
How long do leftovers last?
Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Why is my casserole runny?
It was underbaked. Bake until set.
Can I add more vegetables?
Yes. Add peppers or onions.
Can I use a different pan?
Yes. Any oven-safe dish works.
Can I make this without ham?
Yes. Omit the ham.
The Beauty of Breakfast Casseroles
There is something deeply satisfying about a warm, cheesy casserole that comes together with almost no effort. It is the kind of food that makes people happy. This hash brown patty casserole is a celebration of all those things.
Keep hash browns in your freezer. Keep cheese, ham, and eggs in your fridge. This recipe is the reason why.
Recipe Card
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40–50 minutes
Rest Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 6 servings