Farmer’s Casserole

Name: Farmer’s Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 75 min
Ingredients: 3 cups frozen hash brown potatoes (thawed); 1 cup cooked ham (diced); 1.5 cups cheddar cheese (shredded); 4 units eggs (beaten); 2 cups milk

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By: Maria
Posted: 12/29/2024

Farmer’s casserole is a savory and filling dish that combines hearty potatoes, flavorful sausage, and creamy eggs, all baked together with melted cheese for a comforting breakfast or dinner. This one-pan dish is perfect for feeding a crowd or for meal prep, as it can be easily made ahead of time and reheated. With its savory flavors and satisfying ingredients, Farmer’s Casserole is sure to become a family favorite, offering a delicious way to start the day or to enjoy a comforting evening meal.

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Ingredients:

4 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced
1 lb breakfast sausage (pork or turkey)
1/2 cup onion, chopped
1 red bell pepper, diced
6 large eggs
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your preferred cheese)
1/2 cup milk
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking the potatoes)
Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)

Directions:

Prepare the potatoes:

Cook the potatoes: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced potatoes and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 10-12 minutes, until they are golden brown and tender. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Once cooked, remove the potatoes from the skillet and set aside.

Cook the sausage and vegetables:

Cook the sausage: In the same skillet, add the sausage and cook over medium heat, breaking it apart with a spoon, until it is browned and fully cooked, about 7-8 minutes. Remove any excess grease if needed.
Add the vegetables: Add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the skillet with the sausage. Sauté for 3-4 minutes, until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.

Assemble the casserole:

Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or butter.
Layer the casserole: In the prepared baking dish, layer the cooked potatoes on the bottom. Then, add the cooked sausage and vegetable mixture on top of the potatoes. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
Prepare the egg mixture: In a bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk. Season with salt and pepper. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layered ingredients in the baking dish.

Bake the casserole:

Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is lightly golden. You can insert a knife into the center to check if it comes out clean to confirm the eggs are fully cooked.

Serve:

Garnish and serve: Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Notes:

Make-Ahead: You can assemble this casserole the night before and refrigerate it overnight. Simply bake it in the morning, adjusting the cooking time by an additional 5-10 minutes if baking straight from the fridge.
Variations: Feel free to swap the sausage for bacon or ham for a different flavor. You can also add other vegetables such as spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra nutrition and flavor.
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.

Conclusion:

Farmer’s Casserole is a comforting, hearty dish that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner. Packed with protein, vegetables, and cheesy goodness, this casserole will fill you up and keep you satisfied throughout the day. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or preparing an easy make-ahead meal, Farmer’s Casserole is a simple yet delicious option that’s sure to become a family favorite. It’s the ultimate in comfort food that everyone will love!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I assemble the Farmer’s Casserole the night before and bake it in the morning?

Yes, absolutely! You can assemble the casserole the night before, cover it, and refrigerate it. When ready to bake, add an additional 5-10 minutes to the baking time to ensure the eggs are fully set. This is a great way to save time in the morning and have a delicious breakfast ready to go.

What are some good ingredient substitutions for the sausage and cheese?

For the sausage, you can substitute bacon (cooked and crumbled) or diced ham for a different flavor profile. You can also use turkey sausage or even a vegetarian sausage alternative. As for the cheese, cheddar is a classic, but you can use any cheese you enjoy, such as Monterey Jack, Colby, or a blend. The flavor impact will vary, so choose a cheese that complements the other ingredients.

How do I know when the Farmer’s Casserole is perfectly cooked?

The casserole is done when the eggs are set and the top is lightly golden brown. You can insert a knife into the center; if it comes out clean, the eggs are fully cooked. The internal temperature of the egg mixture should reach 160°F (71°C). The potatoes should be tender, and the cheese should be melted and bubbly.

Can I double or scale up this Farmer’s Casserole recipe for a larger crowd?

Yes, you can easily double the recipe. Use a larger baking dish, such as a 9×13 inch pan. You might need to adjust the cooking time slightly, adding a few minutes to ensure the center is cooked through. Be sure to cook the sausage and vegetables in batches if necessary, to prevent overcrowding the skillet.

What are the main nutritional benefits of the ingredients in Farmer’s Casserole?

This casserole provides a good balance of nutrients. Potatoes offer carbohydrates and fiber, while sausage provides protein. Eggs are an excellent source of protein and essential nutrients. The addition of vegetables like onions and bell peppers adds vitamins and antioxidants. The cheese contributes calcium and some protein, making this a filling and relatively balanced meal.