Ingredients
Scale
- 1 (30 oz) bag of frozen shredded hash browns
- 1 (8 oz) package of cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 pound bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- Cooking spray
Instructions
- Prepare the Baking Dish
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. Lightly coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking. This ensures easy serving and cleanup later.
- Layer the Hash Browns
- Spread the frozen shredded hash browns evenly in the prepared baking dish, creating a solid base for your casserole. No need to thaw them beforehand.
- Create the Creamy Mixture
- In a large bowl, mix the softened cream cheese and sour cream until smooth and well combined. This creates a rich, creamy binding layer for the casserole.
- Add Flavor Elements
- Stir the shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper into the cream cheese mixture. Mix everything thoroughly to ensure the flavors are evenly distributed throughout.
- Layer the Casserole
- Spread the cream cheese and bacon mixture over the hash browns in the baking dish, making sure to cover the entire surface evenly for consistent flavor in every bite.
- Prepare the Egg Mixture
- In a separate bowl, beat the eggs well, then add the milk and whisk until thoroughly combined. The eggs will bind everything together while adding protein and fluffy texture.
- Combine All Layers
- Pour the egg and milk mixture evenly over the casserole, ensuring it covers all ingredients. Use a spatula to gently press down on the top, allowing the egg mixture to soak into all layers.
- Bake to Perfection
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the center is set. Insert a knife in the center – it should come out clean when the casserole is done.
- Rest Before Serving
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the casserole to set properly and makes it easier to portion and serve.
Notes
- Make-ahead tip: Prepare this casserole the night before Christmas. Cover and refrigerate, then add 10-15 minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers and onions.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the microwave.
- Try adding chopped green onions or chives as a garnish before serving for a pop of color and fresh flavor.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12 of casserole)
- Calories: 375
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 150mg