In our home, weekend mornings are sacred. They’re a time for slow starts, cozy pajamas, and, most importantly, delicious, comforting food. And let me tell you, nothing quite hits the spot like a warm, cheesy, and savory Ham and Cheese Hashbrown Bake. This recipe has become an absolute staple in our family. From the moment the aroma of baking potatoes and melting cheese fills the kitchen, everyone starts to gather, eager for a slice. It’s incredibly easy to throw together, making it perfect for busy mornings or even a simple weeknight dinner. What I love most about this dish is its versatility. You can easily customize it with different cheeses, add in some veggies, or even spice it up with a dash of hot sauce. But no matter how you tweak it, the core of this Ham and Cheese Hashbrown Bake remains the same: a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that brings smiles to everyone’s faces. If you’re looking for a recipe that’s guaranteed to be a hit, look no further. This Ham and Cheese Hashbrown Bake is it. Get ready to experience pure breakfast (or brunch, or dinner!) bliss.

Ingredients for the Perfect Ham and Cheese Hashbrown Bake

This recipe is wonderfully straightforward, using simple ingredients you likely already have in your fridge and pantry. Here’s what you’ll need to create this cheesy, potato-packed delight:

• Frozen Hash Browns (30 ounces): The star of the show! Frozen hash browns provide the perfect base for this bake, offering a satisfyingly crisp yet tender texture. We recommend using shredded hash browns for even cooking and a classic hashbrown feel.
• Cooked Ham (1 ½ cups, diced): Adds a savory, salty depth to the dish. Diced ham is easy to incorporate and distributes evenly throughout the bake. You can use leftover ham from a holiday meal or purchase pre-diced ham from the deli.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese (2 cups): Provides that classic cheesy goodness we all crave. Cheddar cheese melts beautifully and has a rich, slightly tangy flavor that complements the ham and potatoes perfectly. Feel free to use a sharp, medium, or mild cheddar based on your preference.
• Shredded Monterey Jack Cheese (1 cup): Adds a creamy, mild, and slightly buttery flavor that blends seamlessly with the cheddar. Monterey Jack also contributes to the gooey, melty texture of the bake.
• Large Eggs (6): Act as the binder for the hashbrown bake, holding all the ingredients together and creating a custardy texture. Eggs also add richness and protein to the dish.
• Milk (½ cup): Adds moisture and helps to create a smoother, less dense texture in the bake. Whole milk will provide the richest flavor, but 2% or even skim milk can be used as well.
• Onion (½ cup, finely diced): Adds a subtle savory and aromatic base note to the bake. Finely diced onion cooks through evenly and adds a touch of sharpness without being overpowering. Yellow or white onions work best.
• Butter (4 tablespoons, melted): Adds richness, flavor, and helps to crisp up the hash browns as they bake. Melted butter coats the hash browns and ensures they don’t dry out.
• Garlic Powder (1 teaspoon): Enhances the savory flavors of the bake and adds a subtle aromatic depth. Garlic powder is a convenient way to add garlic flavor without the need for fresh garlic.
• Salt (1 teaspoon): Essential for seasoning and bringing out the flavors of all the ingredients. Adjust to taste.
• Black Pepper (½ teaspoon): Adds a touch of spice and enhances the overall flavor profile. Freshly ground black pepper is recommended for the best flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Ham and Cheese Hashbrown Bake

This Ham and Cheese Hashbrown Bake is incredibly easy to make, even for beginner cooks. Follow these simple steps for a guaranteed delicious result:

1. Preheat Your Oven and Prepare Your Baking Dish: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating, grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. This will prevent the hashbrown bake from sticking and make serving easier.
2. Prepare the Hash Browns: If your frozen hash browns are in a large block, you’ll want to break them up slightly before using them. You can do this by placing them in a microwave-safe bowl and microwaving for about 1-2 minutes to soften them just enough to break apart with a spoon. Do not fully cook them. Alternatively, you can let them thaw slightly at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes.
3. Combine the Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until well combined. This mixture will form the base of your bake and help to bind all the ingredients together.
4. Add the Flavor Boosters: To the egg and milk mixture, add the melted butter, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Whisk everything together until the spices are evenly distributed. These seasonings will infuse the entire bake with delicious flavor.
5. Incorporate the Hash Browns and Ham: Add the softened hash browns, diced ham, and finely diced onion to the bowl with the egg mixture. Use a large spoon or spatula to gently toss everything together until the hash browns, ham, and onion are evenly coated with the egg mixture. Make sure to distribute the ham and onion throughout the hash browns.
6. Layer in the Cheese: Now it’s time for the cheese! Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese and half of the shredded Monterey Jack cheese over the hash brown mixture in the bowl. Gently fold the cheese into the mixture, ensuring it is distributed throughout. Reserve the remaining cheese for topping.
7. Transfer to the Baking Dish: Pour the hash brown mixture into the prepared 9×13 inch baking dish and spread it out evenly. Use a spatula to ensure the mixture is level in the dish.
8. Top with Remaining Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the top of the hash brown mixture in the baking dish. This cheese topping will melt beautifully and create a golden brown, cheesy crust.
9. Bake to Golden Perfection: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the hashbrown bake is golden brown and bubbly, and the cheese is melted and lightly browned. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out mostly clean (a little moisture from the cheese is okay).
10. Let it Rest and Serve: Once baked, remove the Ham and Cheese Hashbrown Bake from the oven and let it rest for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This resting time allows the bake to set up slightly, making it easier to slice and serve. Cut into squares and serve hot.

Nutrition Facts for Ham and Cheese Hashbrown Bake

This nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients used and serving sizes. The following is based on a serving size of approximately 1/8 of the 9×13 inch bake.

• Servings: 8
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 350-400 calories
• Fat: 20-25 grams

Preparation Time: Quick and Easy Comfort Food

The beauty of this Ham and Cheese Hashbrown Bake lies in its simplicity and speed.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes (This includes softening hash browns, dicing onion and ham, whisking ingredients, and assembling the bake).
• Cook Time: 45-55 minutes (Baking time in the oven).
• Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 5-1 hour 15 minutes (From start to finish, including baking and resting time).

This recipe is perfect for when you want a hearty and satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Most of the time is hands-off baking time, allowing you to focus on other things while your delicious bake is in the oven.

How to Serve Ham and Cheese Hashbrown Bake: Versatile Serving Suggestions

Ham and Cheese Hashbrown Bake is incredibly versatile and can be served for various meals and occasions. Here are some delicious ways to serve it:

• Breakfast or Brunch Staple:
  • Serve as the main course for a weekend brunch or holiday breakfast.
  • Pair with fresh fruit salad or berries for a balanced and refreshing meal.
  • Offer alongside scrambled eggs, bacon, or sausage for a heartier breakfast spread.
  • Add a side of toast or muffins for extra carbs.
• Comforting Weeknight Dinner:
  • Serve as a satisfying and easy weeknight dinner.
  • Pair with a simple side salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness.
  • Serve with steamed green vegetables like broccoli or green beans for a complete meal.
  • Consider a cup of warm soup, like tomato or vegetable soup, as a starter.
• Potlucks and Gatherings:
  • Perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, and holiday parties as it feeds a crowd.
  • Transport easily in the baking dish (cover tightly with foil).
  • Serve warm or at room temperature.
  • Can be made ahead of time and reheated, making it convenient for events.
• Topping Ideas to Enhance the Flavor:
  • Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop of cool sour cream or Greek yogurt adds a tangy and creamy contrast.
  • Salsa or Hot Sauce: For those who like a little spice, salsa or hot sauce adds a kick of flavor.
  • Chopped Green Onions or Chives: Fresh herbs add a pop of color and a mild oniony flavor.
  • Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado slices add richness and healthy fats.

Additional Tips for the Best Ham and Cheese Hashbrown Bake

To ensure your Ham and Cheese Hashbrown Bake is a resounding success every time, here are some helpful tips and tricks:

1. Don’t Thaw Hash Browns Completely: While you want to soften the frozen hash browns slightly to break them apart, avoid thawing them completely. Slightly thawed hash browns will hold their shape better during baking and prevent the bake from becoming too watery.
2. Customize Your Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different cheese combinations. Pepper jack for a spicy kick, Gruyere for a nutty flavor, or a blend of cheddar and Colby for a milder taste. Using a variety of cheeses adds complexity to the flavor profile.
3. Add Vegetables for Extra Nutrition and Flavor: Sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach, or broccoli can be added to the hashbrown mixture for extra flavor and nutrients. Sauté vegetables before adding them to the bake to ensure they are cooked through.
4. Spice it Up: For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes, a dash of hot sauce, or some diced jalapeños to the hashbrown mixture. You can also use pepper jack cheese for a built-in spice element.
5. Use Different Types of Ham: Instead of diced ham, try using crumbled bacon, cooked sausage, or even shredded leftover roasted chicken or turkey for a different protein variation. Smoked ham will add a deeper, smokier flavor.
6. Make it Ahead of Time: Assemble the hashbrown bake completely, up to the point of baking, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking as directed. You might need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking directly from cold.
7. Prevent Burning the Top: If you notice the top of the hashbrown bake is browning too quickly before the center is cooked through, loosely tent the baking dish with aluminum foil for the remaining baking time. This will prevent the top from burning while allowing the center to cook fully.
8. Reheat Leftovers Properly: Leftover Ham and Cheese Hashbrown Bake can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions for a quick reheat. Oven reheating will help maintain the crispy texture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Ham and Cheese Hashbrown Bake

Here are some common questions people have when making Ham and Cheese Hashbrown Bake:

Q1: Can I use fresh hash browns instead of frozen?
A: While frozen hash browns are convenient and work best for this recipe due to their texture, you can use fresh hash browns. If using fresh hash browns, make sure to shred them, rinse them thoroughly under cold water to remove excess starch, and squeeze out as much moisture as possible before adding them to the recipe. You may also need to par-cook fresh hash browns slightly to ensure they cook through properly in the bake.

Q2: Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
A: Yes, you can easily make this recipe vegetarian by omitting the ham. You can add extra vegetables like sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach to compensate for the flavor and texture of the ham. Consider adding a vegetarian sausage substitute for a heartier vegetarian option.

Q3: Can I freeze Ham and Cheese Hashbrown Bake?
A: Yes, you can freeze baked Ham and Cheese Hashbrown Bake. Let it cool completely after baking, then cut it into individual portions or leave it whole. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or place in freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven for best results.

Q4: What if I don’t have Monterey Jack cheese? Can I substitute it?
A: Yes, you can substitute Monterey Jack cheese with other mild, melting cheeses like mozzarella, provolone, or Colby cheese. These cheeses will provide a similar creamy texture and mild flavor.

Q5: Can I add cream instead of milk?
A: Yes, you can use heavy cream or half-and-half instead of milk for an even richer and creamier hashbrown bake. This will add more fat and calories, but it will enhance the richness and flavor.

Q6: How do I prevent the hashbrown bake from being soggy?
A: To prevent sogginess, make sure to not thaw the hash browns completely before using them. Also, avoid adding too much milk or liquid to the egg mixture. Baking at the correct temperature and for the recommended time will also help ensure the bake is cooked through and not soggy.

Q7: Can I make this recipe in a smaller baking dish?
A: Yes, you can halve the recipe and bake it in an 8×8 inch baking dish. The baking time may be slightly shorter, so keep an eye on it and check for doneness around 35-40 minutes.

Q8: What are some good side dishes to serve with Ham and Cheese Hashbrown Bake for dinner?
A: For dinner, Ham and Cheese Hashbrown Bake pairs well with a variety of side dishes such as a fresh green salad, roasted asparagus, steamed broccoli, sautéed green beans, or a simple tomato soup. These sides provide a nice balance to the richness of the bake.

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