Welcome to the perfect way to start your morning with a hearty, comforting Country-Style Breakfast Bake with Hash Browns and Ham! This savory dish is ideal for a weekend brunch or a special family breakfast. Whether you’re hosting guests or just treating yourself to a delicious start, this breakfast bake is sure to become a household favorite.
Introduction
Breakfast is often considered the most important meal of the day, and with good reason. A satisfying breakfast can set the tone for the rest of your day, providing the energy and nutrition needed to tackle whatever comes your way. Our Country-Style Breakfast Bake with Hash Browns and Ham is a quintessential American dish that brings together the best of breakfast in one pan.
This recipe combines crispy hash browns, savory ham, and creamy eggs, all baked together with a hint of spice from Jalapeno Monterey Jack cheese. It’s a dish that not only fills you up but also warms your heart. Perfect for feeding a crowd, this breakfast bake is as convenient as it is delicious. Simply prepare it the night before, pop it in the oven in the morning, and enjoy a stress-free, flavorful breakfast.
Ingredients
To prepare this comforting Country-Style Breakfast Bake with Hash Browns and Ham, you’ll need:
- 6 cups frozen, shredded hash brown potatoes
- 1½ cups shredded Jalapeno Monterey Jack Cheese (can substitute cheddar or Swiss)
- 2 cups diced, cooked ham (or Canadian bacon)
- ½ cup sliced green onions
- 8 large eggs, beaten (or 2 cups egg substitute)
- Two 12-ounce cans evaporated milk (can use whole, 2%, or fat-free)
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground pepper
How to Make Country-Style Breakfast Bake with Hash Browns and Ham
Follow these steps to create your own delicious Country-Style Breakfast Bake with Hash Browns and Ham:
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Grease a 3-quart rectangular baking dish to ensure the bake doesn’t stick.
- Layer the Ingredients: Arrange the shredded hash brown potatoes evenly in the bottom of the dish. Next, sprinkle the shredded cheese, diced ham, and sliced green onions over the potatoes.
- Mix the Egg Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the beaten eggs, evaporated milk, salt, and pepper. Ensure everything is well mixed for even flavor distribution.
- Pour and Refrigerate: Pour the egg mixture over the potato mixture in the baking dish. Cover and refrigerate if needed until ready to bake (several hours or overnight).
- Bake the Dish: When ready to bake, preheat the oven to 350°F. Bake uncovered for 1 hour and 15 minutes or until the center appears set. Let stand for 5 minutes before serving. If baking after the casserole has been chilled, increase the baking time to 1 hour and 30 minutes.
Helpful Tips
For a perfect Country-Style Breakfast Bake with Hash Browns and Ham, here are some tips:
- Use High-Quality Ingredients: Freshly grated cheese and high-quality ham can elevate the flavors of this dish.
- Customize the Flavor: Add some bell peppers or mushrooms to the mix for added texture and flavor.
- Make Ahead: This dish is perfect for making ahead. Prepare it the night before, store it in the refrigerator, and bake it in the morning.
Cooking Tips
Enhance your Country-Style Breakfast Bake with Hash Browns and Ham with these cooking tips:
- Crispy Hash Browns: For extra crispy hash browns, consider pre-baking them for 10 minutes before layering the other ingredients.
- Cheese Options: While Jalapeno Monterey Jack adds a nice kick, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like sharp cheddar or smoked gouda.
- Baking Time: Keep an eye on the baking time if you’re using a glass dish as it may cook faster.
Serving Suggestions
Present your Country-Style Breakfast Bake with Hash Browns and Ham attractively and pair it with these sides:
- Fresh Fruit: A side of mixed berries or a fruit salad adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the bake.
- Bread Options: Serve with toasted sourdough bread or buttery croissants.
- Beverages: Complement the dish with freshly squeezed orange juice, coffee, or a mimosa for a brunch vibe.
Nutritional Information
This Country-Style Breakfast Bake with Hash Browns and Ham is not only tasty but also provides a good balance of nutrients to start your day.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 268 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Protein: 15g
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 180mg
- Sodium: 560mg
- Potassium: 420mg
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 3g
- Vitamin A: 500IU
- Vitamin C: 10mg
- Calcium: 220mg
- Iron: 2mg
This dish is a good source of protein and calcium, thanks to the eggs and cheese. The ham provides additional protein while the hash browns contribute to the carbohydrate content, giving you the energy you need to power through your morning.
Storage and Leftovers
Refrigerate: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat: To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes for a crispier texture.
Creative Uses for Leftovers: Leftovers can be turned into a delicious breakfast sandwich by placing a slice of the bake between toasted bread or an English muffin.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?
Yes, you can use fresh potatoes. Grate them and soak in cold water to remove excess starch. Be sure to dry them thoroughly before using.
Can I substitute the ham with another protein?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with cooked bacon, sausage, or even a vegetarian option like sautéed mushrooms.
How do I make this recipe dairy-free?
Substitute the evaporated milk with a dairy-free alternative like almond or oat milk. Use a dairy-free cheese or omit it altogether.
Related Recipes
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Conclusion
We hope you enjoy making and eating this Country-Style Breakfast Bake with Hash Browns and Ham as much as we do. It’s a versatile and satisfying dish that’s sure to become a staple in your home. Don’t forget to share your experience and any variations you tried with us in the comments below. Happy cooking!
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Country-Style Breakfast Bake with Hash Browns
Description
Welcome to the perfect way to start your morning with a hearty, comforting Country-Style Breakfast Bake with Hash Browns and Ham! This savory dish is ideal for a weekend brunch or a special family breakfast. Whether you’re hosting guests or just treating yourself to a delicious start, this breakfast bake is sure to become a household favorite.
Ingredients
- 6 cups frozen, shredded hash brown potatoes
- 1½ cups shredded Jalapeno Monterey Jack Cheese (can substitute cheddar or Swiss)
- 2 cups diced, cooked ham (or Canadian bacon)
- ½ cup sliced green onions
- 8 large eggs, beaten (or 2 cups egg substitute)
- Two 12-ounce cans evaporated milk (can use whole, 2%, or fat-free)
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Grease a 3-quart rectangular baking dish to ensure the bake doesn’t stick.
- Layer the Ingredients: Arrange the shredded hash brown potatoes evenly in the bottom of the dish. Next, sprinkle the shredded cheese, diced ham, and sliced green onions over the potatoes.
- Mix the Egg Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the beaten eggs, evaporated milk, salt, and pepper. Ensure everything is well mixed for even flavor distribution.
- Pour and Refrigerate: Pour the egg mixture over the potato mixture in the baking dish. Cover and refrigerate if needed until ready to bake (several hours or overnight).
- Bake the Dish: When ready to bake, preheat the oven to 350°F. Bake uncovered for 1 hour and 15 minutes or until the center appears set. Let stand for 5 minutes before serving. If baking after the casserole has been chilled, increase the baking time to 1 hour and 30 minutes.
Equipment
2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
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Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
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- Use High-Quality Ingredients: Freshly grated cheese and high-quality ham can elevate the flavors of this dish.
- Customize the Flavor: Add some bell peppers or mushrooms to the mix for added texture and flavor.
- Make Ahead: This dish is perfect for making ahead. Prepare it the night before, store it in the refrigerator, and bake it in the morning.
