Wake 'n' Bake

Bacon and Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole with Fluffy Eggs

50 minutes
Serves 4
BreakfastAmerican
Herb's take

Inspired by classic American diner breakfasts, this casserole layers all your favorites, bacon, crispy hash browns, and fluffy eggs, into one irresistible bake. You’ll learn how to get crispy edges and fluffy centers, with a little food science on why layering matters.

Ingredients

Yield
4

Instructions

  1. 01
    Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease an 8x8-inch baking dish with neutral oil.
  2. 02
    In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy, about 7-8 minutes. Transfer cooked bacon to a paper towel-lined plate, reserving 1 tablespoon of bacon fat in the pan.
  3. 03
    Add the onion to the reserved bacon fat and sauté until translucent, about 3 minutes, then remove from heat.
  4. 04
    In a large bowl, combine thawed hash browns, melted butter, garlic powder, smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Toss until evenly coated.
  5. 05
    Spread the seasoned hash browns evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish, pressing down gently to form an even layer.
  6. 06
    Scatter the sautéed onions and cooked bacon evenly over the hash brown layer.
  7. 07
    In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, whole milk, remaining 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt, and remaining 1/4 teaspoon black pepper until fully incorporated.
  8. 08
    Pour the egg mixture over the casserole, tilting the dish as needed to ensure it seeps through all the layers.
  9. 09
    Top evenly with shredded cheddar cheese.
  10. 10
    Bake uncovered for 35-40 minutes, or until the eggs are just set and the cheese is golden brown.
  11. 11
    Let the casserole rest 10 minutes before slicing.
  12. 12
    Garnish with chopped chives and serve warm.

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