Hash Brown Patty Casserole

Behold, the grand, golden slab of comfort you didn’t know your brunch table needed. Hash brown patties—those marvels of the freezer section—line the pan like edible shingles. On top, a generous avalanche of shredded cheddar cheese and cubes of salty ham melt and mingle. A custard made from eggs and milk is seasoned with just enough ground mustard to whisper, “Yes, I have been to brunch in France.” Then into the oven it goes, where the edges crisp and the scent of breakfast rises like an invitation.

This casserole is not dainty. It knows what it is and does not apologize: rich, cheesy and starch-forward. It feeds a crowd, accepts your schedule (make it tonight, bake it tomorrow) and reheats well. You could serve it to guests with mimosas and Bloody Marys, or you could eat it cold in your kitchen while standing over the sink. Either way, your taste buds will give it a standing ovation.

Hash Brown Patty Casserole Ingredients

• Frozen hash brown patties
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Cubed fully cooked ham
• Large eggs
• 2% milk
• Salt
• Ground mustard

Directions

Step 1: Build the casserole

Preheat the oven to 350°F. Place the hash brown patties in a single layer in a greased 13×9-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the patties with the cheese and ham. In a large bowl, beat together the eggs, milk, salt and mustard, then pour the mixture over the ham.

Step 2: Bake the casserole

Cover the casserole and bake it for one hour. Uncover it, and continue baking until the edges are golden brown and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean, 15 minutes longer.

How to Store Hash Brown Patty Casserole

Store leftover hash brown patty casserole in an airtight food storage container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat it, warm individual portions in the microwave until they’re heated through, or cover the casserole dish with foil and bake it at 350° until hot. This casserole can be made one day ahead; refrigerate it before baking—just add a few extra minutes to the covered bake time.

Hash Brown Patty Casserole Tips

Can I use shredded hash browns instead of patties in this hash brown patty casserole?

You can swap in frozen shredded hash browns for the patties. Just press the shredded potatoes into the bottom of the dish to form an even layer before adding the cheese and ham.

What can I serve with a hash brown patty casserole for brunch?

To round out a brunch menu with this egg casserole with hash brown patties, serve it with a simple green salad, fresh fruit or a batch of baked cinnamon apples.

What are some variations for hash brown patty breakfast casserole?

For an easy variation on this hash brown casserole, add sauteed bell peppers or onions with the ham, or swap in cooked crumbled sausage or bacon for the ham. You can also mix a pinch of garlic powder or smoked paprika into the egg mixture for extra flavor. Other simple variations for hash brown patty casserole include using turkey ham instead of regular ham, adding a handful of baby spinach, or sprinkling chopped green onions on top before baking.