Cheesy Amish Breakfast Casserole Recipe

There's nothing quite like waking up to the rich, comforting aroma of a Cheesy Amish Breakfast Casserole baking in the oven. This hearty dish combines golden potatoes, crisp bacon, fluffy eggs, and gooey melted cheese into a breakfast that feels like a warm hug.

I first discovered this recipe on a chilly fall morning while visiting Pennsylvania's Amish country. Inspired by the simplicity and wholesome flavors of the region, I knew this was the perfect way to bring a little slice of that magic into my own kitchen. Now, it’s our go-to weekend breakfast – perfect for feeding a crowd or meal-prepping for the week.

Why You'll Love This Cheesy Amish Breakfast Casserole

Get ready to add a new favorite to your breakfast rotation! This Cheesy Amish Breakfast Casserole checks all the boxes for a delicious and satisfying morning meal.

First off, it’s incredibly easy to make. With just a handful of pantry staples and minimal prep, you can assemble this casserole the night before and bake it fresh in the morning – perfect for busy families or holiday brunches.

The flavors are out-of-this-world comforting. The combination of smoky bacon, melty cheese, and perfectly seasoned potatoes is irresistible. Pair it with a cup of coffee, and you're ready to take on the day.

It’s also super versatile. Don’t have bacon? Try sausage or ham instead. Prefer a vegetarian version? Just load up on sautéed veggies like bell peppers and spinach.

Finally, this dish is perfect for meal prep. One pan yields enough servings for the whole week, making your mornings as stress-free as they are delicious.

Whether you’re hosting a weekend brunch or just craving something hearty, this casserole will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this casserole lies in its simple, yet flavorful ingredients. Let’s break down what makes this dish shine.

• Hash Browns: Frozen shredded hash browns are the base of this casserole. Their crispy texture holds up beautifully under the creamy egg mixture. Make sure to thaw and pat them dry for the best results.
• Bacon: Smoky, crispy bacon adds a salty kick to every bite. Feel free to substitute with sausage or ham for a different flavor profile.
• Cheese: The star of this recipe is the cheese – lots of it! I recommend using a mix of sharp cheddar and mozzarella for the perfect balance of flavor and meltiness.
• Eggs: Whisked eggs act as the glue that holds everything together, creating a fluffy, custard-like texture.
• Cottage Cheese: This secret ingredient adds creaminess without making the dish too heavy. Don’t worry, you won’t taste it – but it makes the casserole extra rich.
• Onion and Seasonings: Finely diced onion and a pinch of salt and pepper round out the flavors. You can also add garlic powder or paprika for extra depth.

You'll also need a 9x13-inch baking dish for this recipe. A well-greased pan ensures an easy release and perfectly crisp edges.

How to Make This Cheesy Amish Breakfast Casserole

This Cheesy Amish Breakfast Casserole comes together in just a few easy steps. Here’s how to make it:

1. Prep Your Ingredients: Start by cooking your bacon until it’s crispy, then crumble it into bite-sized pieces. While the bacon is cooking, thaw and pat dry your hash browns, and preheat your oven to 350°F.
2. Mix the Base: In a large bowl, whisk together your eggs, cottage cheese, and shredded cheese. Season the mixture with salt, pepper, and any other spices you love, such as garlic powder or paprika.
3. Assemble the Casserole: Grease your 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray. Spread the hash browns evenly across the bottom, then layer the crumbled bacon on top. Pour the egg and cheese mixture over everything, making sure it’s evenly distributed.
4. Bake to Perfection: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 40-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set. You’ll know it’s ready when a knife inserted into the middle comes out clean.
5. Let It Rest and Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps it hold its shape and makes serving easier.

This casserole is best served warm, with a side of fresh fruit or toast for a balanced breakfast.

Storage Options

One of the best things about this Cheesy Amish Breakfast Casserole is how well it stores. Here’s how to keep it fresh:

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, or warm in a 350°F oven until heated through.
• Freezer: This casserole freezes beautifully. Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
• Make-Ahead Option: Assemble the casserole the night before, cover with foil, and refrigerate. In the morning, bake it as directed, adding 5-10 extra minutes to account for the chilled ingredients.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is as adaptable as it is delicious! Here are a few ideas to make it your own:

• Vegetarian Version: Skip the bacon and load up on veggies like sautéed spinach, bell peppers, and mushrooms.
• Protein Swap: Swap out the bacon for cooked sausage, diced ham, or even shredded rotisserie chicken for a unique twist.
• Cheese Lovers’ Dream: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack for a spicy kick or Gruyère for a nutty flavor.
• Gluten-Free Option: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but always double-check your labels on frozen hash browns and other packaged ingredients.
• Low-Carb Version: Swap the hash browns for grated zucchini or cauliflower rice for a keto-friendly breakfast.

No matter how you customize it, this Cheesy Amish Breakfast Casserole is bound to be a hit.

Wake up to the ultimate breakfast comfort food and enjoy the simple pleasure of a home-cooked meal with this hearty, cheesy casserole. It's the perfect way to bring a little bit of Amish country charm into your kitchen!

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