Farmers Casserole is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that brings comfort to your breakfast table. This dish is a harmonious combination of layers featuring hash browns, diced ham, eggs, and cheese, all baked to perfection. Ideal for family gatherings or a quick weekday meal, this casserole embodies the essence of rustic, homemade goodness. Let’s dive into this easy farmers casserole recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Farmers Casserole

This Farmers Casserole is not just delicious; it’s also a practical solution for busy mornings. Here are some reasons to adore it:

Quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy families.
Loaded with protein from the eggs and ham, keeping you full longer.
Versatile – you can customize it with your favorite vegetables for a Breakfast Casserole with Vegetables.
Great for meal prepping; it can be made a day in advance.
One-pan meal, which means less cleanup for you!
Ideal for feeding a crowd; serves 8 hearty portions.
Comfort food at its best, perfect for chilly mornings.
Contains classic Country Style Casserole ingredients that you probably already have.

Ingredients for Farmers Casserole

Gather these items:

3 cups frozen shredded hash browns
1 cup diced ham (fully cooked)
12 ounce can evaporated milk
3/4 cup Monterey Jack cheese (shredded)
1/4 cup green onion (chopped)
12 eggs
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon salt

How to Make Farmers Casserole Step-by-Step

Step 1: Spread 3 cups frozen shredded hash browns in an even layer in the bottom of a 9 x 13″ casserole dish that’s lightly greased.
Step 2: Add 1 cup diced ham on top of the potatoes and then layer with 3/4 cup Monterey Jack cheese and 1/4 cup green onion.
Step 3: In a mixing bowl, scramble 12 eggs and stir in the 12-ounce can of evaporated milk, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.
Step 4: Pour the egg mixture over the casserole. Cover and refrigerate overnight.
Step 5: Remove from the refrigerator 30 minutes before baking. Bake uncovered in an oven preheated to 350℉ for one hour until the center is cooked through.

Farmers Casserole: 5 Layers of Comforting Goodness - Farmers Casserole - main visual representation

Pro Tips for the Perfect Farmers Casserole

Keep these in mind:

Let the casserole sit for 30 minutes before serving for the best texture.
Experiment with different cheeses for a unique flavor; try cheddar or pepper jack.
This dish is gluten-free, making it suitable for various dietary needs.
Mix in some spinach or bell peppers for a Vegetarian Farmers Casserole Recipe.

Best Ways to Serve Farmers Casserole

Here are some delightful serving ideas:

Serve with a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
Top each serving with salsa or avocado for an extra kick.
Pair with toast or muffins for a classic breakfast spread.

How to Store and Reheat Farmers Casserole

To store, cover any leftovers and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The final step of cooking can be done as needed. Simply reheat in the oven at 350℉ for about 20 minutes until warmed through. This makes it great for meal prep!

Frequently Asked Questions About Farmers Casserole

What’s the secret to perfect Farmers Casserole?

The secret lies in letting the casserole sit overnight to allow the flavors to meld perfectly. You can also use quality ingredients for the best results, especially when it comes to cheese and ham.

Can I make Farmers Casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! This dish is perfect for overnight preparation. Just assemble it the night before and bake it in the morning for a hassle-free breakfast.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Farmers Casserole?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure you don’t overbake it, which can make it dry. Also, let it cool slightly before cutting to keep it from falling apart.

Variations of Farmers Casserole You Can Try

Here are several delicious variations:

For a Farmhouse Casserole Recipe, add some rustic vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms.
If you’re in a rush, try a Quick Farmers Casserole for Busy Mornings by using pre-cooked ingredients.
For a spicy twist, incorporate jalapeños or chorizo for a Farmers Casserole with Sausage and Cheese.
Try an all-vegetarian version by substituting the ham with more vegetables for a hearty, meat-free meal.