Start your day with this delicious and simple Easy Cheesy Breakfast Potato Casserole with Leftover Ham. It’s a comforting dish that brings together savory potatoes, creamy cheese, and tender ham, perfect for using up leftovers. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself, this casserole is sure to become a breakfast favorite.
Steps
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and coat a medium-sized casserole dish, such as a 9×13-inch pan, with non-stick spray. Set aside for later use.
- Cook the Italian sausage until browned, then sauté the chopped onion in the leftover sausage grease until translucent.
- In a large bowl, mix together the cooked sausage, sautéed onions, eggs, milk, frozen diced hash browns, and grated cheddar cheese, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared casserole dish, reserving about one cup of cheese for later.
- Bake the casserole in the oven for 35 minutes. Afterward, remove it, sprinkle the reserved cheese on top, and return it to the oven for an additional 8 minutes.
- Let the casserole rest for 15-20 minutes before serving to allow it to set. Enjoy your meal!
Ingredients
- 1 pound cooked Italian sausage
- 1 yellow onion, chopped and sautéed in sausage drippings
- 7 eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 20-ounce package of frozen diced hash browns
- 8-ounce block of mild cheddar cheese, grated
- Salt and pepper, to taste
FAQ
- Can I prepare the Cheesy Potato Breakfast Casserole ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prepare the casserole the night before. Simply mix the ingredients, place the casserole in the refrigerator overnight, and bake it the next morning.
- What can I use if I don’t like sausage?
- If you’re not a fan of sausage, you can substitute it with hamburger or chunks of ham. Any meat that pairs well with eggs and cheese will work great.
- How long does it take to make this casserole?
- The total time to make the casserole is approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes, which includes 10 minutes of prep time, 45 minutes of cooking, and an additional 15 minutes for resting.
- Can I add any toppings to the casserole?
- Absolutely! You can add toppings like sliced ripe tomatoes after baking to enhance the flavor and presentation.
- What is the ideal occasion to serve this casserole?
- This dish is perfect for family breakfasts during the holidays, like Christmas morning, or as a comforting breakfast option on New Year’s Day.
Tips
- Prepare Ahead of Time: Assemble the casserole the night before for a stress-free morning. Simply refrigerate it overnight, then pop it in the oven when you’re ready to bake.
- Customize the Meat: If sausage isn’t your favorite, try substituting with hamburger or chunks of ham. Any meat that pairs well with eggs and cheese will work perfectly.
- Resting Period: After removing the casserole from the oven, let it rest for 15-20 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and makes serving easier.
- Cheese Topping: Reserve some of the cheese to add on top during the last few minutes of baking for an extra cheesy finish.
Equipment
- Casserole Dish (9 x 13 inches)
- Cheese Grater
- Mixing Bowl (Large)
- Non-stick Spray (for the casserole dish)
