Start your day off right with this mouthwatering Cracked Out Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole! This dish is a delightful combination of crispy hash browns, savory bacon, and creamy cheddar cheese, all brought together with a hint of ranch seasoning for an explosion of flavor. Perfect for brunch gatherings or feeding a crowd, this casserole is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly satisfying. Imagine the aroma of crispy bacon wafting through your kitchen as this hearty breakfast bakes to golden perfection. Whether you’re hosting a weekend brunch or just want a quick bite to fuel your morning, this casserole is sure to impress!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Feeding a Crowd: This casserole is perfect for serving a large group, making it ideal for family gatherings, brunch parties, or holiday breakfasts.
- Easy to Make: With minimal prep and just one baking dish, cleanup is a breeze!
- Flavor Packed: The combination of bacon, cheddar cheese, and ranch seasoning creates a savory flavor that everyone will love.
- Versatile: You can easily customize this dish by adding your favorite vegetables or swapping out the protein.
Ingredients List
To make Cracked Out Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 (30-ounce) bag frozen hash browns, thawed
- 1 cup crispy bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup ranch seasoning mix
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Optional: chopped green onions for garnish
For precise measurements, please refer to the recipe card.
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Prepare the Hash Browns
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the thawed hash browns, crumbled bacon, 1 1/2 cups of cheddar cheese, and ranch seasoning mix. Stir until well combined.
Step 3: Whisk the Egg Mixture
- Whisk Eggs: In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, black pepper, and garlic powder until fully combined.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
- Layer in Baking Dish: Spread the hash brown mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish. Pour the egg mixture over the top, ensuring it covers the hash browns evenly. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese on top.
Step 5: Bake
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the casserole is set in the center and the top is golden brown.
Step 6: Serve
- Cool and Garnish: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired, and serve warm.
Variations & Substitutions
- Vegetable Additions: Add diced bell peppers, onions, or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Different Cheeses: Substitute cheddar with pepper jack for a spicy kick or mozzarella for a milder taste.
- Protein Options: Swap bacon for cooked sausage or ham for a different flavor profile.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
FAQs
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole the night before and refrigerate it. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
Can I freeze the casserole?
Absolutely! You can freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 2 months. Just thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
What can I serve with this casserole?
This hash brown casserole pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit, yogurt, or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
Conclusion
This Cracked Out Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole is a deliciously hearty dish that brings together all your breakfast favorites in one pan. With its crispy bacon, cheesy goodness, and the zesty flavor of ranch seasoning, it’s sure to become a go-to recipe for brunches and gatherings. Try this recipe today, and don’t forget to share your thoughts and any variations you make in the comments! For more delicious recipes, visit https://eldralys.com/ for culinary inspiration. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
