Start your morning right with the warm, comforting flavors of this Cheesy Western Skillet with Hash Browns and Ham. Imagine crispy hash browns layered with smoky ham, vibrant bell peppers, onions, and fluffy baked eggs all crowned with gooey melted cheese. It’s a satisfying breakfast casserole designed to delight family and guests, perfect for lazy weekend brunches or special occasions.
This hearty dish combines classic breakfast favorites into one pan, making it easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy. The combination of textures and flavors – from the savory ham to the creamy eggs and melted cheese – brings a delicious, homestyle touch to your table.
- A one-pan meal offering a perfect balance of crispy, creamy, and cheesy goodness.
- Versatile and customizable with meat and vegetable swaps to suit your tastes.
- Great for feeding a crowd, ideal for brunches or weekend family breakfasts.
Ingredients
- Frozen hash browns (4 cups): Thawed crispy potatoes provide a crunchy and hearty base for the casserole.
- Butter or olive oil (1 tablespoon): Used to sauté veggies and ham, adding richness and preventing sticking.
- Diced cooked ham (1 cup): Smoky and savory meat that adds depth and protein to the dish.
- Diced bell pepper (½ cup): Adds sweetness and vibrant color, enhancing freshness and flavor.
- Diced onion (½ cup): Brings a mild aromatic savoriness that complements the ham and peppers.
- Large eggs (8): The binding and protein-rich ingredient that creates a fluffy texture.
- Milk (1 cup): Lightens the eggs for creamy, tender custard throughout the casserole.
- Salt (½ teaspoon): Enhances all the ingredients’ natural flavors.
- Black pepper (½ teaspoon): Adds gentle heat and depth to the egg mixture.
- Garlic powder (½ teaspoon, optional): Provides subtle savory undertones without overpowering.
- Shredded cheese (2 cups): Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend melts perfectly, adding gooey, bold flavor.
- Optional garnish – sliced green onions or parsley: Adds a fresh, bright finish for a pop of color and taste.
Instructions
- Preheat the oven
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Set your oven to 190°C (375°F) to ensure it reaches the ideal temperature for even baking. A properly preheated oven guarantees the eggs will set just right and the cheese will melt golden and bubbly.
- Sauté the ham and vegetables
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In a large oven-safe skillet or baking dish, warm the butter or olive oil over medium heat. Add diced ham, bell pepper, and onion. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes until the vegetables soften and the ham releases its smoky aroma. This step builds the flavor foundation of the dish.
- Layer the hash browns
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Evenly spread the thawed hash browns over the sautéed ham and veggies. This creates a crispy, satisfying base layer, vital for the contrasting textures in the casserole.
- Mix the eggs and seasoning
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In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and optional garlic powder until smooth and homogenous. This mixture will soak into the hash browns, binding everything while adding creaminess.
- Combine and top with cheese
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Pour the egg mixture evenly over the hash brown layer, ensuring full coverage. Immediately sprinkle shredded cheese across the top. The cheese will melt and create a rich, gooey crust that complements the baked eggs perfectly.
- Bake to perfection
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Bake the casserole uncovered in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes. The eggs should be fully set, and the cheese golden and bubbling. This baking time achieves a tender yet firm texture with a crispy top crust.
- Serve and garnish
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Allow the casserole to cool slightly to make slicing easier. Serve warm, optionally topped with sliced green onions or fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor that lifts the entire dish.
- This casserole can be customized with sausages, bacon, or turkey instead of ham for varied flavors.
- Feel free to add fresh veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or tomatoes for more nutrition and texture.
- Cheese blends such as sharp cheddar mixed with pepper jack provide a bolder flavor profile.
- For convenience, prepare the casserole the night before and bake it fresh in the morning.
Storage Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to preserve the casserole’s texture and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This skillet pairs beautifully with fresh fruit or a crisp green salad for a balanced meal. A side of warm toast or freshly brewed coffee complements the hearty flavors perfectly.
- Use a well-seasoned cast iron skillet or a ceramic baking dish to ensure even baking and easy release.
- Don’t overmix the egg mixture; whisk just until combined for a tender texture.
- For crispier hash browns, sauté them separately before layering.
- Allow the casserole to rest a few minutes after baking to develop firmer slices.
FAQs
- Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?
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Yes, you can grate fresh potatoes, but be sure to squeeze out excess moisture to avoid a soggy casserole.
- Can I make this casserole gluten-free?
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Absolutely! The ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but verify your cheese and seasoning labels if concerned about cross-contamination.
- How can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
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Assemble the casserole the night before, cover, and refrigerate. Bake as directed the next morning for fresh, hot breakfast.
- What types of cheese work best?
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Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend of both melt well and enhance flavor. You can also experiment with pepper jack for a spicy kick.
- Can I add more vegetables?
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Yes, fresh or sautéed spinach, mushrooms, tomatoes, or zucchini work great and add nutrition and flavor.
- How do I store leftovers?
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Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to keep textures crisp.
- Is it possible to make this vegetarian?
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Simply omit the ham and substitute with diced sautéed mushrooms or extra vegetables for a delicious vegetarian option.
Cheesy Western Skillet Hash Browns
Equipment
- 1 oven-safe skillet or baking dish
- 1 mixing bowl
- 1 whisk
Ingredients
- 4 cups frozen hash browns thawed
- 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil
- 1 cup diced cooked ham
- 1/2 cup diced bell pepper any color
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder optional
- 2 cups shredded cheese cheddar, Monterey Jack, or blend
- Optional garnish: sliced green onions or parsley
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Melt butter or heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet or baking dish over medium heat.
- Add diced ham, bell pepper, and onion; sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened.
- Spread thawed hash browns evenly over the ham and vegetable mixture.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and garlic powder until smooth.
- Pour the egg mixture evenly over the hash browns in the skillet.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly on top.
- Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes until eggs are set and cheese is melted and golden.
- Allow to cool slightly, then slice or scoop onto plates.
- Garnish with sliced green onions or parsley if desired before serving.
Notes
- Substitute ham with cooked sausage, bacon, or turkey for variety.
- Add veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrients.
- Use a cheddar and pepper jack cheese blend for a bolder taste.
- Assemble the casserole the night before; bake fresh in the morning for convenience.
