The Bacon, Egg, and Hash Brown Casserole is a beloved breakfast classic that brings together all your morning favorites in one warm, hearty dish. Perfect for family gatherings, holiday brunches, or make-ahead weekday meals, this casserole is as comforting as it is convenient.
It layers crispy hash browns, savory bacon, fluffy scrambled eggs, and gooey melted cheese into a satisfying bake that’s golden on top and tender inside.
What makes this casserole truly special is its balance of textures and flavors—crunchy edges from the potatoes, smoky richness from the bacon, and creamy eggs bound together with sharp cheddar or your favorite melty cheese. It’s a crowd-pleaser that can be customized with add-ins like sautéed onions, bell peppers, or even a touch of hot sauce for a kick.
Not only is it easy to prepare, but it can also be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated overnight, making it an excellent option for busy mornings or hosting guests.
Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or prepping for a potluck, this casserole guarantees comfort and satisfaction in every bite. Serve it with a side of fruit or toast, and you’ve got a complete breakfast worth waking up for.
Bacon Egg and Hash Brown Casserole for a Lazy Weekend Breakfast
Description
Bacon Egg and Hash Brown Casserole is a hearty, make-ahead breakfast dish perfect for feeding a crowd.
Crispy hash browns form a satisfying base, layered with smoky bacon, fluffy scrambled eggs, melted cheese, and savory spices. It's baked to golden perfection, creating a warm, comforting casserole with a balance of textures—crispy edges and a creamy interior.
Ideal for holiday mornings, weekend brunches, or meal prep, this dish is both kid-friendly and freezer-friendly.
Whether served with fruit, toast, or on its own, it’s a flavorful and filling option that brings classic breakfast elements together in one easy-to-make dish.
This Bacon, Egg, and Hash Brown Casserole is a comforting and satisfying dish that's perfect for feeding a crowd. Packed with crispy hash browns, smoky bacon, fluffy eggs, and gooey melted cheese, this casserole bakes up beautifully and is easy to prepare ahead of time.
Whether you're hosting brunch or just want an easy breakfast to reheat throughout the week, this dish delivers flavor and convenience in every bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon slices until they're crispy, about 6–8 minutes. Transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain and cool. Once cooled, chop or crumble the bacon into bite-sized pieces.
Tip: If you're short on time, you can use pre-cooked bacon or bacon bits, but freshly cooked bacon adds a superior flavor and texture.
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Lightly grease a 9x13-inch (3-quart) baking dish with butter or nonstick cooking spray. This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier.
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Evenly spread the thawed hash browns into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the hash browns, then top with the chopped bacon. At this point, you can also add any optional ingredients like sautéed onions, bell peppers, or diced jalapeños for a bit of variety and flavor.
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In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix until well combined and the seasonings are fully incorporated.
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Slowly pour the egg mixture evenly over the hash brown, cheese, and bacon layers in the dish. Gently press down with a spatula to help the ingredients settle and soak up the egg.
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Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the center is set and no longer jiggles when gently shaken. The top should be lightly golden and a knife inserted in the middle should come out clean.
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If you like a cheesier top, sprinkle a bit more shredded cheddar on top during the last 5–10 minutes of baking.
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Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for about 5–10 minutes. This allows the eggs to finish setting and makes slicing easier.
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Garnish with chopped green onions or fresh herbs for a pop of color and freshness. Serve warm with toast, fruit, or a side of hot sauce for a complete meal.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 350kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 22g34%
- Saturated Fat 9g45%
- Cholesterol 220mg74%
- Sodium 600mg25%
- Total Carbohydrate 20g7%
- Dietary Fiber 1g4%
- Sugars 2g
- Protein 18g36%
- Calcium 200 mg
- Iron 2 mg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
A Bacon, Egg, and Hash Brown Casserole is a comforting and crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a casual dinner.
Combining crispy hash browns, smoky bacon, creamy eggs, and gooey cheese into one warm and satisfying bake, it’s both easy to prepare and versatile.
Here’s a comprehensive guide filled with pro tips and serving ideas to help you master it :
Tips for the Best Casserole
1. Use Crispy Hash Browns:
Start with thawed frozen hash browns or grate fresh potatoes and squeeze out the moisture using a clean towel. For extra crispness, pan-fry them in a bit of oil or butter before layering. This step prevents soggy potatoes and adds delicious texture.
2. Cook Bacon to Your Liking:
For a smoky, crisp bite throughout, fully cook the bacon until it’s just shy of extra crispy. Drain on paper towels to remove excess grease. Crumble or chop into uniform pieces for even distribution.
3. Whisk Eggs Well with Dairy:
Mix the eggs thoroughly with milk or half-and-half to make a creamy custard base. For 8 large eggs, add about 1 ¼ cups of milk. A splash of heavy cream gives extra richness, while almond or oat milk can work for dairy-free alternatives.
4. Season with Confidence:
Hash browns and eggs can be bland without proper seasoning. Add salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, or even a pinch of cayenne. Stir some of the seasonings directly into the egg mixture so the flavor spreads evenly.
5. Cheese Selection:
Cheddar is a classic choice, but feel free to mix things up. Try Monterey Jack for a melty, mild twist or pepper jack for a hint of spice. Grate your cheese fresh for best melting.
6. Layer Smartly:
Start with a base of hash browns, followed by bacon and cheese, then pour the egg mixture over the top. Gently press everything down with a spatula to soak the bottom layer.
7. Bake Covered Then Uncovered:
Cover the casserole with foil for the first 30–35 minutes at 350°F (175°C). This allows the eggs to set without over-browning the top. Uncover for the last 10–15 minutes to brown the cheese and edges.
8. Rest Before Serving:
Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes after baking. This allows it to firm up and slice cleanly. It also helps concentrate the flavor.
Tricks & Customizations
Make Ahead Option:
Assemble the entire dish the night before, cover, and refrigerate. In the morning, just pop it in the oven. Add 5–10 minutes of baking time since it’s starting from cold.
Add Veggies for Color and Nutrition:
Mix in sautéed bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, or spinach for extra color and nutrients. Just be sure to cook off any excess moisture to avoid a soggy casserole.
Protein Switch:
Swap bacon for cooked sausage, diced ham, or a vegetarian meat alternative to suit your taste.
Make It Mini:
Bake individual portions in muffin tins for grab-and-go breakfasts or brunch buffets. Reduce baking time to about 20–25 minutes.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a fresh fruit salad or citrus wedges to brighten up the plate.
- Offer hot sauce, salsa, or sour cream on the side for extra flavor.
- A small green salad or roasted veggies can turn this breakfast favorite into a complete lunch or dinner.
- Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days and reheat nicely in the oven or microwave.
Tips and Variations:
- Cheese options: While cheddar is classic, you can experiment with pepper jack, mozzarella, gouda, or a mix for different flavors.
- Add veggies: Diced bell peppers, spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli can be added for color, flavor, and extra nutrients.
- Swap proteins: Instead of bacon, try cooked sausage, ham, or even a vegetarian meat alternative.
- Make-ahead option: Assemble the casserole the night before, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. In the morning, bake as directed, adding about 5–10 minutes to the cook time if cold from the fridge.
- Freezer-friendly: Bake the casserole, let it cool, slice into portions, and freeze. Reheat in the microwave or oven for quick breakfasts.
Yield and Serving Size:
This recipe serves about 8 people, making it ideal for a weekend brunch, holiday breakfast, or meal prep for the week. Each serving is hearty and packed with protein, making it a satisfying meal on its own.
Final Thoughts:
This Bacon, Egg, and Hash Brown Casserole is as flexible as it is flavorful. It’s great for holidays like Christmas morning, Easter brunch, or just a lazy Sunday with the family. With minimal prep and loads of comfort, it’s a go-to breakfast casserole recipe you'll come back to again and again.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is Bacon Egg and Hash Brown Casserole?
Bacon Egg and Hash Brown Casserole is a popular breakfast or brunch dish made by layering or mixing crispy bacon, eggs, shredded hash brown potatoes, cheese, and often cream or milk, then baking everything together until hot and bubbly.
It’s a hearty, savory casserole that combines protein, potatoes, and cheese into one easy-to-serve dish, perfect for feeding a crowd or prepping ahead for busy mornings.
How do you make Bacon Egg and Hash Brown Casserole?
The basic method is straightforward:
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Cook and crisp the bacon, then crumble it.
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Mix together frozen or fresh shredded hash browns with beaten eggs, shredded cheese (like cheddar or mozzarella), and a dairy component such as cream, milk, or sour cream.
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Add cooked bacon and seasonings (salt, pepper, onion powder, garlic powder).
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Pour the mixture into a baking dish and bake in a preheated oven at around 350°F (175°C) for 45–60 minutes until the casserole is set and golden on top.
Some recipes add sautéed onions or peppers for extra flavor, or use cream soups for richness.
How many does Bacon Egg and Hash Brown Casserole serve?
Most recipes are designed to serve about 6 to 8 people, making it a great option for family breakfasts, brunch parties, or potlucks. The casserole is quite filling because of the combination of eggs, bacon, and potatoes, so serving sizes are moderate. Leftovers can often be refrigerated and reheated for a quick breakfast the next day.
What is the estimated cost and cooking time?
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Cost: The casserole is budget-friendly. Expect to spend roughly $10–$15 in total in the U.S., depending on brand choices and whether you buy fresh or frozen ingredients. This breaks down to about $1.25 to $2.00 per serving.
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Cooking time: Prep usually takes 15 to 20 minutes, including cooking the bacon and mixing ingredients. Baking takes around 45 to 60 minutes, so total time is roughly 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes.
