This Farmer’s Breakfast Casserole is a hearty mix of eggs, potatoes, cheese, and your favorite veggies. It’s an easy all-in-one dish that’s perfect for a crowd!
Mornings can be crazy, but this casserole makes breakfast a breeze. I love waking up to the smell of it baking—it’s like a warm hug before the day starts! ☀️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Eggs: Fresh large eggs bring richness and nutrition to the casserole. If you’re vegan or need an egg substitute, try silken tofu or a mix of flaxseed meal and water (1 tablespoon flaxseed with 3 tablespoons water for each egg).
Diced Ham: Ham adds a nice smoky flavor. You can use turkey ham or cooked bacon instead. For a vegetarian option, consider sautéed mushrooms or cooked veggie sausage.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar is classic, but feel free to switch it up! Mozzarella or feta cheese can give a different flavor twist. If you’re dairy-free, try a vegan cheese that melts well.
Cooked Potatoes: I love using hash browns for that crispy texture. You can easily substitute with leftover roasted potatoes or sweet potatoes for a different taste.
Bell Pepper and Onion: These veggies add crunch and flavor. You can swap them out for any veggies you have on hand, such as spinach, zucchini, or even frozen mixed veggies.
How Do I Ensure the Casserole Sets Perfectly?
Getting the right texture in a breakfast casserole is all about the cooking time and temperature. Here are some steps to keep in mind:
- Keep your oven at the right temperature (350°F/175°C) so it cooks evenly.
- Check the casserole around 40 minutes. Insert a knife in the center; it should come out clean when it’s done.
- If it seems like the top is getting too brown, you can cover it loosely with foil to prevent burning.
- Let the casserole sit for a few minutes before cutting. This helps it firm up and makes serving easier.
With these tips, you’ll have a fluffy and delicious casserole every time! Enjoy cooking! 🍳
Farmer’s Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Base:
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 2 cups diced ham
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup diced cooked potatoes (hash browns or roasted potatoes work well)
For the Veggies:
- 1/2 cup diced green bell pepper
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Others:
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons butter or cooking oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Farmer’s Breakfast Casserole will take about 15 minutes to prep, and 40-45 minutes to bake. In no time, you’ll have a warm and hearty breakfast ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s warming up, lightly grease a 9×9 inch baking dish so your casserole doesn’t stick.
2. Sauté the Veggies:
Next, grab a skillet and place it over medium heat. Melt the butter or heat the oil, then add in the diced onion, green bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 4-5 minutes until they’re nice and softened. This step adds wonderful flavor!
3. Mix the Egg Base:
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk. Don’t forget to season this mixture with a bit of salt and pepper to taste!
4. Combine Ingredients:
Add the sautéed veggies, diced ham, diced potatoes, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese into the egg mixture. Gently stir everything together until well combined.
5. Bake It Up:
Pour the entire mixture into your prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the rest of the cheddar cheese on the top to give it a cheesy finish. Now, it’s time to bake! Place it in the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until it’s set in the middle and a knife inserted comes out clean.
6. Cool and Serve:
Once it’s done baking, take the casserole out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This little rest will help it firm up. If you’d like, garnish with chopped fresh parsley to add a lovely touch. Serve warm and enjoy!
Your hearty Farmer’s Breakfast Casserole is now ready to be enjoyed! Perfect for any day, especially those busy mornings. 🍳
Can I Use Egg Substitutes for This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a substitute, try using silken tofu blended until smooth or a mixture of 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 3 tablespoons of water for each egg. This will give you a similar texture, although the flavor might be a bit different.
How Can I Make This Casserole Vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply replace the diced ham with additional vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers. You could also add cooked veggie sausage for an extra flavor boost while maintaining a hearty texture.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You can add a splash of milk to keep it moist while reheating!
Can I Prep This Casserole the Night Before?
Yes, you can! Prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, remove it from the fridge while you preheat the oven, and then bake as instructed, adding an extra few minutes to the cooking time if it’s cool from the fridge.
