Christmas Morning Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole

Introduction

Christmas Morning Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole is the ultimate holiday breakfast—warm, comforting, and designed to feed a crowd with minimal effort. On a morning filled with excitement, gifts, and family time, the last thing anyone wants is to stand over the stove cooking multiple dishes. This casserole solves that problem beautifully by combining crispy hashbrowns, fluffy eggs, savory breakfast meat, and melted cheese into one hearty, oven-baked dish.

What makes this casserole especially perfect for Christmas morning is that it can be prepared ahead of time. Assemble everything the night before, refrigerate, and simply bake while everyone opens presents. The result is a golden, bubbly casserole that fills the house with irresistible aromas and brings everyone to the table.

This recipe is flexible, forgiving, and endlessly customizable. Whether you prefer sausage, bacon, or a meatless version loaded with vegetables, this Christmas Morning Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole adapts easily while keeping that cozy, homemade feel families love year after year.

Ingredients

1 (30 oz) bag frozen hashbrown potatoes, thawed

1 lb breakfast sausage or bacon, cooked and crumbled

8 large eggs

1 ½ cups milk or half-and-half

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or cheddar blend)

½ cup shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese

1 small onion, finely diced

1 teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

½ teaspoon garlic powder

½ teaspoon paprika

2 tablespoons melted butter

Cooking spray or butter for greasing the dish

Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Layer the Hashbrowns

Spread the thawed hashbrowns evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Drizzle with melted butter and season lightly with salt and pepper.

Step 3: Add Meat and Cheese

Sprinkle the cooked sausage or bacon evenly over the hashbrowns. Add the diced onion, then layer both cheeses evenly across the dish.

Step 4: Mix the Egg Mixture

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika until well combined.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

Pour the egg mixture evenly over the casserole. Gently press down with a spatula to ensure everything is submerged. Bake uncovered for 45–55 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden. Let rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.

Variation

Make-Ahead Version: Assemble the casserole, cover tightly, and refrigerate overnight. Bake in the morning, adding 5–10 extra minutes.

Vegetarian Option: Skip the meat and add bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach.

Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or use pepper jack cheese.

Ham & Cheese: Substitute cooked diced ham for sausage or bacon.

Creamy Version: Replace milk with half-and-half or add ½ cup sour cream.

Cooking Note

If baking straight from the refrigerator, allow the dish to sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before placing it in the oven. This helps the casserole bake evenly and prevents a cold center.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Christmas Morning Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole with fresh fruit, orange juice, and hot coffee. It pairs wonderfully with cinnamon rolls, pastries, or a light green salad for balance. For a festive touch, garnish with chopped parsley or green onions before serving.

Tips

Always thaw and drain hashbrowns to avoid excess moisture.

Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting.

Let the casserole rest before slicing for clean portions.

Double the recipe for large gatherings.

Leftovers reheat beautifully the next day.

Prep Time

20 minutes

Cooking Time

50 minutes

Total Time

1 hour 10 minutes

Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)

Calories: 420

Protein: 22 g

Sodium: 780 mg

FAQs

Can I prepare this casserole the night before?
Yes, this recipe is perfect for overnight prep. Just cover and refrigerate.

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hashbrowns?
Yes, shred and squeeze out excess moisture before using.

How do I know when it’s done?
The center should be set and no longer jiggly, and a knife inserted should come out clean.

Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, bake first, cool completely, then freeze for up to 2 months.

What’s the best cheese to use?
Cheddar provides the best classic flavor, but blends work great too.

Conclusion

Christmas Morning Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole is everything a holiday breakfast should be—easy, comforting, and made for sharing. With its hearty layers, cheesy goodness, and make-ahead convenience, it allows you to enjoy the most special morning of the year without stress. Once you serve this casserole, it’s guaranteed to become a cherished Christmas tradition at your table. 🎄🍳

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