Name: Farmer’s Breakfast Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 cups shredded hash browns; ¾ cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup diced ham; ¼ cup sliced green onions; 12 ounces evaporated milk; 4 large eggs; Salt, to taste; Black pepper, to taste

Jump to Recipe

If you’ve ever dreamed of a hearty, soul-warming breakfast that’s packed with flavor and so easy to throw together, the Farmer’s Breakfast Casserole is exactly what you need. It’s a delightful blend of crispy hash browns, gooey cheddar, savory ham, and fresh green onions all tied together with a rich, fluffy egg custard. This dish feels like a warm kitchen hug on a plate, perfect for cozy mornings, weekend brunches, or feeding a crowd without breaking a sweat.

Farmer's Breakfast Casserole Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These simple, everyday ingredients come together to create a beautiful balance of texture and flavor in the Farmer’s Breakfast Casserole. Each element has a special role, from the crispy potatoes adding heartiness to the creamy eggs that hold everything together.

3 cups shredded hash browns: The crispy, golden foundation that brings comfort and body to the casserole.
¾ cups shredded cheddar cheese: Adds rich, melty cheesiness that perfectly compliments the other ingredients.
1 cup diced ham: A savory, slightly smoky touch that makes every bite satisfying.
¼ cup sliced green onions: Fresh and slightly sharp, these brighten the dish with a pop of color and flavor.
12 ounces evaporated milk: Creates a creamy, custard-like texture for the eggs.
4 eggs: The binding hero that brings the casserole to life, fluffy and rich.
Salt and black pepper (to taste): Essential seasonings that elevate every flavor in the dish.

How to Make Farmer’s Breakfast Casserole

Step 1: Prepare your oven and dish

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Greasing a 9×13 baking dish with nonstick cooking spray ensures your casserole won’t stick and makes cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Layer the hash browns

Spread the shredded hash browns evenly in the bottom of your prepared baking dish. This creates the crispy and flavorful base that’s key to the Farmer’s Breakfast Casserole’s rustic charm.

Step 3: Add cheese, ham, and green onions

Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the hash browns first, then layer the diced ham on top. Finally, scatter the sliced green onions evenly, adding a fresh flavor and bright green color that will shine through the finished dish.

Step 4: Whisk the egg mixture

In a separate bowl, whisk together the evaporated milk, eggs, salt, and black pepper until the mixture is completely blended and smooth. This creamy custard will soak into the layers, baking into a rich, tender texture.

Step 5: Pour and bake

Pour the egg mixture gently over the layered ingredients in the casserole dish, making sure it soaks through evenly. Bake for 45 minutes, or until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean, signaling that the eggs are perfectly set.

Step 6: Rest before serving

Allow the Farmer’s Breakfast Casserole to rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This resting time helps it firm up nicely, making for cleaner slices and a more enjoyable eating experience.

How to Serve Farmer’s Breakfast Casserole

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh chives or parsley goes beautifully on top, adding a burst of herbaceous green and a fresh aroma. You can also add a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce to give it just the right kick.

Side Dishes

Pair this casserole with crisp, fresh fruit or a simple mixed greens salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness. For a true country breakfast, add warm buttermilk biscuits or crusty toast on the side.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving individual portions in ramekins for an elegant brunch presentation. Or transform the leftovers into breakfast wraps by reheating and rolling slices with warm tortillas and salsa. The Farmer’s Breakfast Casserole is versatile enough to shine on any occasion.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen overnight, so leftovers often taste even better the next day.

Freezing

This casserole freezes beautifully. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, or place in a freezer-safe container, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat individual slices in the microwave for 1–2 minutes, or warm a larger portion covered in the oven at 325 degrees Fahrenheit until heated through. To keep the top crispy, uncover during the last few minutes of heating.

FAQs

Can I use fresh milk instead of evaporated milk?

Yes, you can substitute fresh milk, but evaporated milk gives a creamier, richer texture that elevates the casserole. Using whole milk will yield the best results.

Is it possible to make this casserole vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply omit the ham or replace it with sautéed mushrooms, diced bell peppers, or your favorite vegetarian sausage for a delicious twist.

Can I prepare the casserole the night before?

Yes, you can assemble it the night before, cover it well, and refrigerate. When ready, bake it fresh in the morning. This makes mornings so much easier and the flavors even better.

What can I substitute for hash browns?

If you don’t have hash browns, shredded frozen potatoes work well too. Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture to avoid a soggy casserole.

How do I know when the Farmer’s Breakfast Casserole is done?

The best test is inserting a knife or toothpick in the center; it should come out clean without any wet egg mixture. The casserole should be set and lightly golden around the edges.

Final Thoughts

The Farmer’s Breakfast Casserole is one of those dishes that feels like a warm, familiar hug from the inside out. It’s effortless, satisfying, and endlessly adaptable. Whether you’re feeding family, hosting brunch friends, or just craving comfort food, this recipe is sure to become a treasured favorite. Give it a try and watch it become a regular star in your breakfast lineup!

Farmer’s Breakfast Casserole Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 9 reviews

Author: Ella
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Diet: Low Salt

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Description

A hearty and comforting Farmer’s Breakfast Casserole combining crispy hash browns, melted cheddar cheese, savory diced ham, and green onions all soaked in a creamy egg and evaporated milk mixture, baked to golden perfection. Perfect for a filling breakfast or brunch that feeds a crowd with ease.

Ingredients

Scale

Base

3 cups shredded hash browns

Cheese and Meat

¾ cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup diced ham

Vegetables

¼ cup sliced green onions

Egg Mixture

12 ounces evaporated milk
4 large eggs
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Layer Hash Browns: Spread the shredded hash browns evenly over the bottom of the prepared baking dish, forming the base layer for the casserole.
Add Cheese and Ham: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the hash browns, then add the diced ham on top. Follow by evenly distributing the sliced green onions over the ham layer.
Prepare Egg Mixture: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the evaporated milk, eggs, salt, and black pepper until the mixture is smooth and fully blended.
Pour Egg Mixture: Carefully pour the egg mixture over the layered ingredients in the casserole dish, ensuring it covers the ingredients evenly.
Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes or until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean, indicating the eggs are fully set.
Rest and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm for a satisfying breakfast or brunch meal.

Notes

Use frozen hash browns thawed and drained if fresh is not available.
Substitute ham with cooked bacon or sausage for variation.
Add chopped bell peppers or mushrooms for extra vegetables.
For a low-fat version, use reduced-fat cheese and milk instead of evaporated milk.
Ensure the casserole rests before slicing to allow it to set properly and slice cleanly.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Breakfast, Brunch
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American