Loaded Breakfast Potato Casserole

Start your morning with this hearty Loaded Breakfast Potato Casserole! Layers of tender sliced potatoes, fluffy eggs, savory ham or breakfast sausage, colorful bell peppers, onions, and plenty of melted cheddar cheese come together in one comforting breakfast bake. It's easy to make, perfect for holidays, brunch, meal prep, or feeding a hungry family.

Cook Time

Servings

Difficulty

60 minutes

Easy

Prep Time

20 Minutes

Ingredients

☐ 1½ pounds potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced

☐ 1 cup diced bell peppers (red, green, or a combination)

☐ ½ cup diced onion

☐ 1 cup diced cooked ham or 1 pound breakfast sausage, cooked and crumbled

☐ 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese

☐ 8 large eggs

☐ 1 cup milk

☐ ½ teaspoon garlic powder

☐ 1 teaspoon salt

☐ ¼ teaspoon black pepper

☐ Butter or cooking spray, for greasing the baking dish

1. Prepare the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick cooking spray.

2. Make the Egg Mixture

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth and well combined.

3. Build the First Layer

Arrange half of the sliced potatoes evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Top with half of the diced bell peppers, onions, cooked ham (or sausage), and about half of the shredded cheddar cheese.

4. Add the Egg Mixture

Pour half of the egg mixture evenly over the layered ingredients.

5. Repeat the Layers

Repeat with the remaining potatoes, peppers, onions, meat, and egg mixture. Finish by sprinkling the remaining cheddar cheese evenly over the top.

6. Bake Covered

Cover the casserole tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.

7. Finish Baking

Remove the foil and continue baking for 10 to 15 minutes, until the cheese is melted, lightly golden, and the center is fully set.
8. Rest & Serve

Let the casserole rest for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with fresh fruit, toast, or your favorite breakfast sides.

RECIPE TIPS

● For the most tender potatoes, slice them about 1/8-inch thick so they cook evenly. If you like your potatoes extra soft, parboil the slices for 5 to 7 minutes before layering them into the casserole. Let the casserole rest for 5 to 10 minutes after baking so it slices cleanly and the eggs have time to set.

🥶 STORAGE

Allow the Loaded Breakfast Potato Casserole to cool completely before storing. Cover the baking dish tightly with foil or transfer individual portions to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, wrap portions tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for the best texture.

Directions

Connie Perry Recipes-Loaded Breakfast Potato Casserole.png

🔥 Reheating Instructions

For the best results, reheat individual servings in the microwave for 1 to 2 minutes, or until heated through.
To reheat a larger portion, cover the casserole with foil and bake in a 350°F oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until hot in the center. Remove the foil during the last 5 minutes if you'd like the cheese to become bubbly again.
If reheating from frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for the best texture.

Can I make this casserole the night before?
Yes! Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate overnight. Let it sit at room temperature for 20 to 30 minutes while the oven preheats, then bake as directed.
Do I need to cook the potatoes first?
No. Thinly slicing the potatoes (about 1/8 inch thick) allows them to cook through during baking. If you prefer extra-soft potatoes, you can parboil them for 5 to 7 minutes before assembling the casserole.
Can I use frozen hash browns instead of fresh potatoes?
Absolutely! Substitute about 4 to 5 cups of thawed frozen hash browns for the sliced potatoes. The baking time may be slightly shorter.
Can I use a different cheese?
Yes! Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, mozzarella, or a blend of your favorite cheeses all work well in this recipe.
Can I substitute the ham?
Of course! Cooked breakfast sausage, bacon, diced turkey, or even leftover shredded chicken are all delicious alternatives.
How do I know when the casserole is done?
The potatoes should be fork-tender, the eggs should be completely set in the center, and the cheese should be melted and lightly golden on top.
Can I freeze Loaded Breakfast Potato Casserole?
Yes! Let the casserole cool completely, then wrap it tightly or store it in an airtight freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
What can I serve with this casserole?
This casserole pairs perfectly with fresh fruit, biscuits, toast, pancakes, yogurt, or a side of crispy bacon for a complete breakfast or brunch.