Farmer’s Casserole is a comforting dish that combines simple ingredients for a hearty meal. This baked casserole is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner, making it a versatile choice for any time of day. With its layers of hash browns, colorful peppers, ham, and cheese, this recipe not only satisfies your hunger but also brings a smile to your face.

Why make this recipe

Making Farmer’s Casserole is a great choice for several reasons. First, it’s easy to prepare, requiring minimal cooking skills and time. It’s also a one-dish meal, so cleanup is a breeze! Plus, you can customize it to fit your family’s tastes and dietary needs. It’s an excellent way to use leftover ham, making it a budget-friendly option too. Whether you need a quick breakfast for busy weekdays or a hearty dish for a family gathering, this casserole is sure to please!

How to prepare Farmer’s Casserole

Preparing this delicious Farmer’s Casserole is straightforward. Just follow the steps below, and you’ll have a mouthwatering dish ready in no time.

Ingredients:

3 cups diced hash brown potatoes
¼ cup chopped red bell pepper
¼ cup chopped green bell pepper
¼ cup chopped green onions
1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese
1 cup cubed fully cooked ham
6 oz evaporated milk
5 large eggs
½ teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Steps:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
Place the diced hash brown potatoes into an 8-inch baking dish. Add the chopped red and green bell peppers evenly over the potatoes.
Sprinkle the shredded Cheddar cheese evenly on top of the potatoes and peppers. Then add the cubed ham and chopped green onions, distributing them evenly throughout the dish.
In a small bowl, whisk together the 5 large eggs, 6 ounces of evaporated milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until fully combined.
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the contents of the baking dish. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 55 to 60 minutes, or until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean, indicating the casserole is fully set and cooked through.

How to serve Farmer’s Casserole

Farmer’s Casserole is best served warm right out of the oven. You can cut it into squares and serve it on individual plates. Pair it with a fresh salad or some fruit for a complete meal. For a nice touch, you can also offer extra green onions or hot sauce on the side for those who like a little extra flavor.

How to store Farmer’s Casserole

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The casserole will keep well for about 3 to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven or microwave until heated through. You can also freeze it before baking. Just prepare it as directed, cover it tightly, and freeze it. When you’re ready to cook it, thaw it overnight in the fridge and then bake as instructed.

Tips to make Farmer’s Casserole perfectly

Use Frozen Hash Browns: Frozen hash browns save time and work just as well as fresh ones. Just make sure to let them thaw a bit before using.
Mix Different Cheeses: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese like Monterey Jack or Swiss for a unique flavor.
Add Extra Veggies: You can add more vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or asparagus to boost nutrition and flavor.

Variations

Vegetarian Option: Omit the ham and add more vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or broccoli.
Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for some heat.
Breakfast Casserole: Toss in some cooked sausage or crumbled bacon for a meatier version.

FAQ

1. Can I make Farmer’s Casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole the night before and refrigerate it. Just bake it the next day, adding a few more minutes to the cooking time if baking straight from the fridge.

2. Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Just make sure to peel and dice them into small pieces before using. Par-cook them for about 10 minutes to soften them before adding to the casserole.

3. How do I know when the casserole is done?
The casserole is done when a knife inserted into the center comes out clean and the top is golden brown. If it’s still gooey, give it a few more minutes in the oven.

Enjoy making this tasty Farmer’s Casserole and delight in the smiles it brings to your table!