Cracked Out Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole

The Cracked Out Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole is a savory, cheesy, and irresistibly flavorful dish perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner. Loaded with hash browns, crispy bacon, cheese, and ranch seasoning, this casserole is as indulgent as it gets. It’s easy to make and feeds a crowd, making it ideal for family gatherings, potlucks, or meal prepping.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Packed with Flavor: Ranch seasoning, bacon, and cheese combine for an unforgettable taste.
• Crowd-Pleaser: A great dish for feeding a large group or family.
• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make it beginner-friendly.
• Customizable: Adapt the recipe with your favorite veggies, proteins, or cheeses.
• Make-Ahead Option: Assemble it the night before for a hassle-free morning.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Frozen hash browns (shredded or diced)
• Cooked bacon (crumbled)
• Cheddar cheese (shredded)
• Eggs
• Milk
• Ranch seasoning mix
• Salt and pepper
• Green onions (chopped, optional, for garnish)
• Butter or cooking spray (for greasing the dish)

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
2. Layer the Ingredients: Spread the hash browns evenly in the prepared dish. Sprinkle crumbled bacon and half of the shredded cheese over the hash browns.
3. Make the Egg Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, ranch seasoning mix, salt, and pepper.
4. Assemble the Casserole: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the hash browns, bacon, and cheese. Top with the remaining shredded cheese.
5. Bake: Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is golden and bubbly.
6. Garnish and Serve: Let the casserole cool slightly before garnishing with green onions. Slice into portions and serve warm.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8-10
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Variations

• Add Veggies: Incorporate sautéed bell peppers, onions, or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for heat.
• Different Cheeses: Swap cheddar for pepper jack, Swiss, or a blend of your favorites.
• Turkey Bacon: Substitute regular bacon with turkey bacon for a lighter option.
• Meat Lover’s: Add cooked sausage or diced ham alongside the bacon.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Cover leftovers tightly and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze individual portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or microwave individual servings for 1-2 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?

Yes, shred fresh potatoes and squeeze out excess moisture before using.

Can I make this casserole the night before?

Absolutely! Assemble it, cover tightly, and refrigerate overnight. Bake fresh in the morning.

Can I use ranch dressing instead of seasoning mix?

Ranch seasoning mix is preferred for this recipe to avoid excess liquid, but you can try ranch dressing for a different twist.

How do I keep the casserole from being watery?

Ensure any frozen hash browns are fully thawed and patted dry before assembling the dish.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, skip the bacon and add extra vegetables or plant-based meat substitutes.

Is this casserole gluten-free?

Yes, ensure all ingredients, especially the ranch seasoning mix, are certified gluten-free.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, use a larger baking dish or make two separate casseroles to feed a larger crowd.

How do I know when the casserole is done?

The casserole is done when the eggs are fully set, and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean.

What toppings pair well with this dish?

Sour cream, salsa, avocado, or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro work wonderfully.

Can I add sausage instead of bacon?

Yes, cooked and crumbled sausage is an excellent substitute for bacon.

Conclusion

The Cracked Out Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole is a savory, cheesy, and irresistibly delicious way to start your day. Packed with bold flavors and customizable to your preferences, it’s the perfect dish for brunch gatherings, holiday mornings, or meal prep. With its ease of preparation and crowd-pleasing taste, this casserole is sure to become a favorite in your breakfast rotation!

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