There's nothing quite like waking up to the irresistible aroma of a Cheesy Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole With Ham baking in the oven. With its golden, bubbly cheese, crispy hashbrowns, and savory chunks of ham, this dish is the ultimate way to start your day on a delicious note.

I first made this casserole for a lazy Sunday brunch when I needed a dish that was easy to prepare but packed with flavor. One bite, and my family was hooked! Now, it's our go-to breakfast for holidays, weekend gatherings, or anytime we crave a hearty, satisfying meal.

Why You'll Love This Cheesy Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole With Ham

Get ready to fall in love with your new favorite breakfast casserole. This recipe is not just delicious—it’s a lifesaver for busy mornings!

First off, it's incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep, you can have everything ready to bake in no time. Perfect for those mornings when you need a stress-free meal.

It's also great for meal prep. You can assemble it the night before, store it in the fridge, and pop it in the oven when you're ready to eat. Ideal for making your mornings smoother.

Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or hosting brunch, this casserole is sure to be a hit. The combination of crispy hashbrowns, melted cheese, and savory ham is simply irresistible.

And let’s not forget—it’s budget-friendly. Using affordable ingredients like frozen hashbrowns and leftover ham makes this dish both delicious and economical.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Cheesy Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole With Ham lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each one contributes to the perfect balance of textures and taste.

Hashbrowns form the crispy, golden base of this casserole. I prefer using frozen shredded hashbrowns for convenience, but if you have time, you can grate fresh potatoes and squeeze out the excess moisture for an even crispier result.

Ham adds a smoky, savory depth to the dish. You can use leftover holiday ham, deli ham, or even cooked bacon or sausage if you want to switch things up.

Cheese is what makes this casserole extra indulgent. I recommend a blend of sharp cheddar and mozzarella for the perfect mix of flavor and meltiness. Feel free to experiment with Swiss or pepper jack for a little twist.

Eggs and milk create a rich, custardy texture that holds everything together. Whole milk works best for a creamy consistency, but you can substitute half-and-half for an even richer result.

You’ll also need seasonings like salt, pepper, and garlic powder to enhance the flavors. A pinch of paprika or cayenne pepper adds a subtle kick if you like a little heat.

How To Make This Cheesy Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole With Ham

Creating this mouthwatering breakfast casserole is easier than you might think. Let’s walk through the process step by step.

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and greasing a 9x13-inch baking dish. This ensures your casserole doesn’t stick and makes cleanup a breeze.

Next, spread an even layer of hashbrowns in the bottom of the dish. If using frozen hashbrowns, there’s no need to thaw them—just break up any large clumps and press them down lightly.

Sprinkle diced ham evenly over the hashbrowns. If your ham is particularly salty, consider reducing the added salt in the recipe to balance the flavors.

Now, it's time for the cheese! Scatter a generous layer of shredded cheese over the ham. This will create that perfectly gooey, cheesy layer that everyone loves.

In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Pour this mixture over the hashbrowns, ham, and cheese, making sure everything is evenly covered.

Bake the casserole for 40-45 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown. Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Storage Options

This casserole stores beautifully, making it a great make-ahead meal for busy mornings.

To refrigerate, let the casserole cool completely before covering it tightly with plastic wrap or transferring it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to 4 days.

To freeze, wrap individual portions or the entire casserole in plastic wrap and then in foil. Store in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

To reheat, pop a slice in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or warm the whole casserole in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes until heated through.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this Cheesy Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole With Ham is its versatility. You can easily customize it to suit your taste.

If you prefer a meatless version, simply omit the ham and add sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for a veggie-packed alternative.

Want to switch up the cheese? Try using Monterey Jack, Swiss, or even a little feta for a unique flavor twist.

For a spicier take, mix in diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the egg mixture. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes also adds a subtle heat.

If you’re looking for a healthier option, swap half of the hashbrowns for cauliflower rice and use turkey ham or chicken sausage instead of traditional ham.

No matter how you make it, this Cheesy Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole With Ham is guaranteed to become a new favorite in your home. Try it once, and you'll be hooked!