Looking for that perfect dish that combines the indulgence of a hearty breakfast with the convenience of a baked good? Look no further! Our hash-brown crust breakfast bake is here to save the day. With a crispy hash-brown base, a creamy egg filling, and a medley of your favorite ingredients, this dish is perfect for brunch gatherings or cozy weekend breakfasts.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients
For the Hash-Brown Crust
3 cups frozen shredded hash browns (thawed and patted dry)
3 tablespoons melted butter
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
For the Filling
6 large eggs
¾ cup heavy cream or whole milk
1 cup shredded cheddar or Swiss cheese
½ cup chopped bell peppers
½ cup diced onion
½ cup cooked crumbled bacon or breakfast sausage (optional)
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional additions: spinach, mushrooms, jalapeños, ham, or fresh herbs.
Directions
Step 1: Prepare and Pre-Bake the Crust
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Grease a 9-inch pie dish or baking dish. In a large bowl, combine thawed hash browns, melted butter, salt, and pepper, stirring to coat evenly.
Press the hash-brown mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of the dish to form an even crust.
Bake for 25 minutes, or until the edges and bottom are crisp and golden. Remove from the oven and let the crust cool slightly while preparing the filling.
Step 2: Mix the Filling
In a bowl, whisk together eggs, cream, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika until smooth.
Fold in the cheese, chopped vegetables, and optional bacon or sausage. Make sure the mixture is well combined but not overmixed.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake
Reduce oven temperature to 375°F (190°C).
Pour the egg mixture into the pre-baked hash-brown crust, spreading the filling evenly.
Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is lightly golden.
Allow the breakfast bake to rest for 5 minutes before slicing for cleaner portions.
Tips for Crust Crispiness
To ensure that your hash-brown crust reaches that desired level of crispiness, make sure to squeeze out any excess moisture from the hash browns before mixing them with the butter. This will prevent a soggy crust!
Variations and Make-Ahead Notes
Don’t hesitate to experiment! Try adding cooked sausage, switch up the cheese, or toss in some herbs for a fresh flavor. This dish can be made ahead! Prepare the crust and filling separately; keep refrigerated overnight and combine before baking. Ready, set, brunch!
