Egg and Hash Brown Casserole Recipe

Eggs: The base of the casserole, providing structure and richness.

Hash browns: Adds a crispy texture and hearty flavor to the dish.

Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into the casserole, adding a creamy and cheesy element.

Milk: Helps to create a smooth and creamy consistency.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the casserole.

Black pepper: Adds a touch of spice and depth to the flavor profile.

When preparing this casserole, ensure that the hash browns are thoroughly thawed and patted dry to remove any excess moisture. This step is crucial to prevent the casserole from becoming too watery. Additionally, for an extra layer of flavor, consider sautéing the hash browns in a bit of butter until they are lightly browned before mixing them with the other ingredients. This will add a delightful crispiness and enhance the overall texture of the dish.

• eggs - Substitute with flaxseed meal: Mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 3 tablespoons of water for each egg. This works as a binding agent and is a great vegan alternative.

• eggs - Substitute with silken tofu: Use ¼ cup of blended silken tofu per egg. This provides a similar texture and is also a good vegan option.

• thawed frozen hash browns - Substitute with grated fresh potatoes: Use the same amount of grated fresh potatoes. They provide a similar texture and flavor, though you may need to squeeze out excess moisture.

• thawed frozen hash browns - Substitute with sweet potatoes: Use grated sweet potatoes for a different flavor profile and added nutrients.

• shredded cheddar cheese - Substitute with shredded mozzarella cheese: Mozzarella has a milder flavor but melts similarly.

• shredded cheddar cheese - Substitute with nutritional yeast: Use ¼ cup of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy, suitable for vegans.

• milk - Substitute with almond milk: Use the same amount of almond milk for a dairy-free alternative.

• milk - Substitute with coconut milk: Use the same amount of coconut milk for a richer, slightly sweet flavor.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Use 1 tablespoon of soy sauce for a different kind of salty flavor and added umami.

• salt - Substitute with sea salt: Use the same amount of sea salt for a slightly different mineral content and flavor.

• black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: Use the same amount of white pepper for a milder, slightly different flavor.

• black pepper - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Use a smaller amount of cayenne pepper for a spicier kick.

• Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the dish soggy.
• For short-term storage, cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Alternatively, transfer the casserole to an airtight container.
• Store the covered casserole in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This ensures the eggs and hash browns remain fresh and safe to eat.
• For longer storage, consider freezing the casserole. Cut it into individual portions for easy reheating.
• Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap, then place the wrapped pieces in a freezer-safe bag or container. This double-layer protection helps prevent freezer burn.
• Label the container with the date to keep track of its freshness. The casserole can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
• When ready to enjoy, thaw the casserole in the refrigerator overnight. This gradual thawing helps maintain the texture and flavor.
• Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire casserole in the oven. For oven reheating, cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-30 minutes.
• If reheating in the microwave, place a portion on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals until warm.

• Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the leftover casserole in an oven-safe dish.
  3. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to prevent the top from drying out.
  4. Heat for about 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is warmed through.
  5. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes to let the top get crispy again.

• Microwave Method:

  1. Place a portion of the casserole on a microwave-safe plate.
  2. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
  3. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure even heating.
  4. If needed, continue heating in 30-second intervals until hot.

• Stovetop Method:

  1. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add a small amount of butter or olive oil to the skillet.
  3. Place the casserole in the skillet and cover with a lid.
  4. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, flipping occasionally to ensure even heating.
  5. Remove from heat once the casserole is hot and crispy.

• Air Fryer Method:

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the casserole in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
  3. Heat for 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even heating.
  4. Check to make sure the casserole is heated through and has a crispy top.

• Oven: Used to bake the casserole at a consistent temperature of 350°F (175°C).

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl to combine and mix the eggs, hash browns, cheese, milk, salt, and pepper.

• Whisk: Useful for beating the eggs until they are well combined.

• Measuring cups: Essential for accurately measuring the milk, hash browns, and cheese.

• Measuring spoons: Necessary for measuring the salt and black pepper.

• Baking dish: A greased dish to pour the mixture into before baking.

• Spatula: Handy for scraping the mixture from the mixing bowl into the baking dish.

• Oven mitts: Important for safely handling the hot baking dish when removing it from the oven.

• Cooling rack: Allows the casserole to cool evenly for a few minutes before serving.

Prep ingredients ahead: Thaw and measure hash browns and shredded cheese the night before.

Use pre-shredded cheese: Save time by using pre-shredded cheddar cheese instead of shredding your own.

Mix in one bowl: Combine eggs, hash browns, cheese, milk, salt, and pepper in one bowl to minimize cleanup.

Grease the dish early: Grease your baking dish before starting to mix ingredients.

Preheat the oven first: Start preheating your oven before you begin mixing to save waiting time.