1-First Step: Gather and Prep Your Ingredients Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and coating a 9×13 baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. This sets the stage for even cooking and prevents sticking, making your Farmers Breakfast Casserole come out perfectly. Thaw the 3 cups of frozen hash browns if they aren’t already, and dice the 2 cups of cooked ham to ensure everything is ready. This initial prep, which takes about 10 minutes, allows for smooth assembly and can be adapted if you’re using low-sodium options for dietary needs.

2-Second Step: Layer the Base Evenly arrange the 3 cups of thawed hash browns in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle on the 1 cup of shredded Monterey Jack cheese, followed by the 2 cups of diced ham and 1/4 cup of chopped green onions. This layering builds the hearty foundation of your Farmers Breakfast Casserole, creating a mix of textures that’s both crispy and flavorful. If you want to make it lighter, consider using turkey ham here for a quick adaptation that still keeps the easy prep vibe.

3-Third Step: Mix the Egg Filling In a large bowl, whisk together the 6 eggs, 1 1/2 cups of half-and-half (or whole milk), 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/3 teaspoon of black pepper until well combined. This step ensures the egg mixture is smooth and evenly distributed, which is key for the casserole’s creamy texture. Pour it over the layered ingredients in the dish, making sure it covers everything for a uniform bake. For variations, you could swap in egg whites for some of the eggs to reduce cholesterol while maintaining the hearty essence.

4-Fourth Step: Bake the Casserole Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is nicely browned and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean, signaling that the eggs are fully set. This cooking time allows the flavors of Farmers Breakfast Casserole to meld together, resulting in a dish that’s easy to prepare yet packed with a hearty punch. If you’re cooking for seniors or those with dietary restrictions, check midway to adjust if needed, like lowering the time for a softer texture.

5-Final Step: Rest and Serve Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes. This helps it set properly, making it easier to cut and serve without falling apart. With each serving clocking in at about 402 calories, it’s a balanced option for busy parents or working professionals. Slice it up and enjoy, perhaps with a side of fresh fruit for added nutrition remembering this recipe’s hearty ingredients make it versatile for any meal of the day. Discover more breakfast casserole recipes to vary your routine.