Farmers Casserole Recipe: The Ultimate Comfort Food Breakfast

 Farmers Casserole Recipe: The Ultimate Comfort Food Breakfast

If you're searching for a hearty, comforting, and easy-to-make breakfast that brings the whole family together, look no further than this Farmers Casserole. Packed with savory ham, gooey cheese, and golden hash brown potatoes, all baked into a creamy, eggy base, this dish is the ultimate morning crowd-pleaser. Perfect for holiday mornings, weekend brunches, or meal prep for busy weekdays, this casserole checks all the boxes: simple ingredients, minimal prep, and maximum flavor.

Whether you’re feeding a crowd or planning ahead, this make-ahead breakfast casserole guarantees smiles all around. It’s a one-dish wonder that satisfies every craving—salty, cheesy, creamy, and filling—with a rustic charm that feels like home.

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🧾 Farmers Casserole Ingredients (and Why They Work)

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a vital role in building layers of flavor and texture. Here's a breakdown:

6 cups frozen shredded hash brown potatoes

These form the foundation of the casserole, giving it structure and that crave-worthy potato base. No need to thaw—just layer them in frozen for easy prep.

2 cups Monterey Jack cheese, grated

Creamy and melty, Monterey Jack brings a mild richness that balances the saltiness of the ham. It’s a perfect melting cheese for casseroles.

2 cups ham, diced

Adds a savory, meaty bite that makes the dish feel hearty and satisfying. Use leftover ham or deli ham—either works beautifully.

1/2 cup green onions, chopped

Offers a pop of freshness and color, while cutting through the richness with mild, oniony flavor.

8 large eggs, beaten

The eggs bind everything together, creating a custard-like texture that holds up well when baked.

2 (12 oz) cans evaporated milk

Richer than regular milk, evaporated milk ensures a creamy consistency without being too heavy. It helps the eggs stay tender and moist.

1/2 teaspoon garlic salt

Adds a touch of savory depth and enhances all the other flavors.

1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Just enough to add a hint of spice and balance the creamy base.

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👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions to Make the Best Farmers Casserole

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) if baking immediately. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray or a light coating of butter to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Layer the Base

Spread the frozen shredded hash browns evenly across the bottom of the prepared dish. There's no need to thaw them—they’ll cook perfectly in the oven.

Step 3: Add Flavor Layers

Sprinkle the hash browns with:

Grated Monterey Jack cheese

Diced ham

Chopped green onions

Distribute these ingredients evenly to ensure every bite is packed with flavor.

Step 4: Mix the Egg Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:

8 beaten eggs

2 cans (12 oz each) evaporated milk

Garlic salt

Black pepper

Pour this savory egg mixture evenly over the layered ingredients in the baking dish.

Step 5: Chill or Bake

For make-ahead convenience, cover the dish with foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight.

If baking right away, skip the chilling step and proceed.

Step 6: Bake

If chilled overnight: Bake uncovered for 1 hour 30 minutes, or until the center is fully set and slightly golden on top.

If baking immediately: Bake uncovered for 1 hour 15 minutes.

💡 Pro Tip: Use a knife to check doneness—the center should come out clean and not jiggly. Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving to firm up and make slicing easier.

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❤️ Why This Farmers Casserole Is a Fan Favorite

Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for holidays, guests, or stress-free mornings.

Customizable: Swap ham for sausage, bacon, or keep it vegetarian with sautéed mushrooms or spinach.

Feeds a Crowd: One pan serves 8–10 people generously.

Freezer Friendly: Cooled slices can be frozen for up to 2 months and reheated easily.

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🥗 Serving Suggestions: Complete Your Meal

Pair your Farmers Casserole with:

Fresh fruit salad for a light and colorful contrast.

Buttery toast or biscuits to soak up any cheesy goodness.

Hot coffee or fresh orange juice for the perfect breakfast combo.

Add a side of sautéed greens or a light arugula salad if serving this dish for brunch or dinner—it’s surprisingly versatile!

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✨ Pro Tips for Perfecting Farmers Casserole

Grate your own cheese for better melt and flavor—pre-shredded varieties often contain anti-caking agents.

Add a pinch of smoked paprika or hot sauce to the egg mixture for a subtle kick.

For a crispy top, sprinkle extra cheese during the last 10 minutes of baking.

Use a glass or ceramic baking dish for even heat distribution and a perfectly set center.

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🏆 Final Thoughts: Easy, Cheesy, Irresistible

This Farmers Casserole recipe is everything a great breakfast should be—easy, comforting, and packed with flavor. With simple ingredients and a foolproof method, it's no wonder this dish is a favorite at family gatherings, potlucks, and Sunday brunch tables across the country.

Whether you're planning a holiday brunch, feeding overnight guests, or prepping for busy mornings, this recipe delivers every time. Once you try it, it’ll become a go-to breakfast classic in your kitchen.

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Craving more easy breakfast bakes? Bookmark this recipe and share it—you won’t want to lose it! 🍳🧀🥔

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📌 Don’t forget to pin this recipe for later!

📝 Leave a comment below if you tried it—what did you add or s

wap? We’d love to hear!

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Let me know if you’d like a printable recipe card, Pinterest-optimized image, or nutritional breakdown to go along with this!