Farmers Casserole – A Hearty, Comforting Breakfast and Brunch Classic

There’s something magical about a dish that combines simplicity, comfort, and crowd-pleasing flavors—and that’s exactly what the Farmers Casserole delivers. Layers of golden hash browns, savory diced ham, and melty Monterey Jack cheese are blanketed in a rich, creamy egg custard that sets perfectly in the oven. It’s the kind of casserole that makes mornings special, whether for a holiday brunch, weekend breakfast, or a lazy Sunday family gathering.

Easy to prepare ahead, this casserole is a lifesaver when hosting guests or feeding a hungry family. The flavors meld beautifully as it bakes, giving you a warm, satisfying dish that’s hearty, flavorful, and visually appealing. Every forkful offers a perfect balance of tender potatoes, savory ham, creamy cheese, and a soft, custardy texture that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and filling: A complete breakfast in one dish that satisfies adults and kids alike.
• Make-ahead friendly: Prepare the night before for stress-free mornings.
• Customizable: Swap the ham for cooked bacon, sausage, or even leftover roasted chicken.
• Family-approved: Layers of cheese, eggs, and potatoes make it irresistible to picky eaters.

Ingredients – With Purpose

Base Ingredients

• 6 cups frozen shredded hash brown potatoes – The hearty base, crisping slightly in the oven while soaking up the custard.
• 2 cups Monterey Jack cheese, grated – Adds a creamy, melty layer with mild, buttery flavor.
• 2 cups diced ham – Provides savory protein and classic breakfast flavor.
• 1/2 cup chopped green onions – Adds a mild onion flavor and fresh green color for visual appeal.

Custard Mixture

• 8 large eggs, beaten – The base for the custard, binding the casserole together with a soft, silky texture.
• 2 (12 oz) cans evaporated milk – Rich and creamy, it creates the custard that holds everything together.
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic salt – Enhances the overall flavor with a subtle garlicky touch.
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper – Adds mild seasoning to balance the richness.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.

2. Layer the Ingredients

1. Spread the frozen shredded hash brown potatoes evenly across the bottom of the prepared dish.
2. Sprinkle the grated Monterey Jack cheese over the potatoes for that melty, gooey layer everyone loves.
3. Scatter the diced ham evenly on top of the cheese.
4. Sprinkle the chopped green onions over the top for a fresh, colorful touch.

3. Prepare the Custard

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the beaten eggs, evaporated milk, garlic salt, and black pepper.
2. Pour the custard evenly over the layered ingredients in the baking dish, making sure it spreads to all edges.

4. Bake to Perfection

1. If preparing ahead, cover and refrigerate the casserole overnight for convenience.
2. If chilled, bake uncovered for about 1 hour 30 minutes, or until the center is set and a knife inserted comes out clean.
3. If baking immediately without chilling, reduce baking time to approximately 1 hour 15 minutes.
4. Once done, let the casserole stand for 5–10 minutes before serving to allow it to set slightly for easier slicing.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve warm for breakfast, brunch, or even a cozy dinner.
• Pair with fresh fruit, toast, or a side salad for a complete meal.
• Top with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for added flavor and presentation.

Why Families Love This Casserole

• Make-ahead convenience: Prepare the night before for stress-free mornings.
• Hearty and filling: Perfect for feeding a crowd or large family.
• Flavorful layers: Hash browns, cheese, ham, and custard work in harmony for a delicious, comforting bite.
• Versatile: Easy to adapt with different cheeses, proteins, or vegetables.

Conclusion

The Farmers Casserole is the ultimate breakfast or brunch dish that combines comfort, convenience, and flavor in every bite. Its layers of golden hash browns, savory ham, melty cheese, and creamy custard create a meal that’s as beautiful to serve as it is delicious to eat. Perfect for family gatherings, holidays, or simple weekend breakfasts, this casserole will quickly become a beloved classic in your home.

Whether you make it ahead of time or bake it fresh, the Farmers Casserole delivers warmth, satisfaction, and a little touch of nostalgia that keeps everyone coming back for more. Easy to prepare, versatile, and hearty—this recipe truly has it all.