If you are craving a hearty, flavorful breakfast that feels like a warm hug on a chilly morning, the Mississippi Sin Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. This dish layers crispy, golden hash browns with savory ham and ooey-gooey cheddar cheese, all soaked in a rich, spicy egg custard that bakes up perfectly. It’s a crowd-pleaser that brings comfort and a touch of kick to your breakfast table, making every bite pure bliss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this casserole lies in its simple yet perfectly balanced ingredients. Each component plays an essential role: crispy potatoes for texture, tender ham for savory depth, creamy cheese for that luscious melt, and a spiced egg mixture to tie it all together beautifully.
- 32-oz bag shredded hash browns (thawed): The crispy, golden base that gives the casserole its irresistible texture.
- 2 Tbsp canola oil: To get the hash browns perfectly browned with a slight crisp before baking.
- 1½ lb diced cooked ham: Adds savory saltiness and meaty goodness to every bite.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Provides that classic creamy, melty cheesiness that binds the casserole.
- 8 large eggs: The backbone of the casserole, creating a rich custard that holds everything together.
- 1½ cups milk: Lightens the eggs and keeps the custard tender.
- ½ cup sour cream: Adds a tangy creaminess that elevates the flavor and texture.
- 2 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce: Delivers a subtle umami punch that deepens the savory notes.
- 2½ Tbsp hot sauce: Brings the signature “sin” to the casserole for a delicious spicy kick.
- 1½ tsp onion powder: Infuses a mild, sweet onion flavor throughout the custard.
- ½ tsp garlic powder: Rounds out the seasoning with a warm, fragrant garlic aroma.
How to Make Mississippi Sin Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pan and Brown the Hash Browns
Start by preheating your oven to 350ºF and lightly spraying a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking. In a large skillet, heat the canola oil over medium-high heat. Add the thawed hash browns and cook them until they develop a light golden brown crust. This step is crucial because it ensures a wonderful crispy texture in the final dish. Transfer these browned hash browns into your prepared pan, spreading them out evenly.
Step 2: Layer the Ham and Cheese
Next, sprinkle the diced cooked ham evenly over the bed of hash browns. The ham adds savory bursts of flavor and hearty texture. Following that, scatter the shredded cheddar cheese on top. This layer guarantees that each slice of casserole will be rich and cheesy, with that irresistible melt that makes you smile.
Step 3: Whisk Together the Custard
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, sour cream, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, onion powder, and garlic powder until completely combined and smooth. This flavorful custard mixture binds all the layers together and infuses the casserole with creamy, zesty goodness. Pour it slowly and evenly over the layered hash browns, ham, and cheese, making sure everything is well coated.
Step 4: Bake Until Perfectly Set
Place the casserole in your preheated oven and bake uncovered for 60 to 70 minutes. The casserole is done when the top is golden brown and the custard has fully set, with the edges bubbling slightly. You’ll know it’s time when a knife inserted into the center comes out clean. Let it cool just a bit before serving to allow the flavors to meld and make slicing easier.
How to Serve Mississippi Sin Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
To add freshness and a bit of brightness on top of this rich casserole, consider garnishing with chopped green onions, a dollop of sour cream, or a sprinkle of fresh parsley. These simple additions not only add color but also freshen the palate, balancing the creamy, savory layers.
Side Dishes
This casserole shines as the main event but pairs wonderfully with light, fresh sides like a crisp fruit salad, roasted cherry tomatoes, or a mixed greens salad with a tangy vinaigrette. These sides complement the hearty nature of the dish without overpowering its bold flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try making mini versions in muffin tins, perfect for individual servings at brunch gatherings. You could also top with a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce or a handful of sliced avocado to add creaminess and a modern flair. Serve with warm biscuits or flaky croissants for a full southern-inspired breakfast feast.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, wrap any leftover Mississippi Sin Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole Recipe tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors actually deepen after a day, making leftovers a delightful breakfast or dinner option.
Freezing
This casserole freezes beautifully. To freeze, prepare the casserole but do not bake it. Wrap it securely with foil and place it in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking according to the directions.
Reheating
Reheat individual slices in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or warm a whole casserole in a 350ºF oven covered with foil until heated through. For a crispier top, remove the foil during the last 10 minutes of reheating.
FAQs
Can I use frozen hash browns straight from the bag?
It’s best to thaw the hash browns first and pat them dry before cooking. This step helps avoid excess moisture, giving you that perfect crispy texture in your casserole.
What can I substitute for the ham if I want a vegetarian version?
Try using sautéed mushrooms, chopped bell peppers, or even a plant-based meat alternative. These options add flavor and texture while keeping the casserole hearty and satisfying.
Is there a way to make this casserole less spicy?
Absolutely! Simply reduce or omit the hot sauce depending on your heat preference. You can always add a dash at the table if someone wants more spice.
Can I prepare this casserole the night before and bake it in the morning?
Yes! Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate overnight. When you’re ready, bake it a little longer to ensure it’s heated through and the custard is fully set.
What type of cheese works best in this recipe?
Sharp cheddar cheese is the classic choice for its melting quality and bold flavor. However, feel free to experiment with Monterey Jack, Colby, or a cheese blend to suit your taste.
Final Thoughts
There’s something incredibly comforting and satisfying about the Mississippi Sin Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole Recipe that makes it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser anytime you serve it. Whether for a holiday brunch, special occasion, or an everyday family breakfast, this casserole brings joy to the table with every bite. I encourage you to give it a try and discover how this simple combination of ingredients transforms into a decadent, savory masterpiece you’ll want to make again and again.
Print
Mississippi Sin Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60-70 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Breakfast Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Mississippi Sin Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole is a hearty and flavorful morning dish combining crispy hash browns, savory diced ham, and melted cheddar cheese, all soaked in a creamy, tangy egg mixture with a kick of hot sauce. Perfect for a family breakfast or brunch, it bakes to golden perfection and serves eight.
Ingredients
Hash Brown Base
- 1 (32-oz) bag shredded hash browns, thawed
- 2 Tbsp canola oil
- 1½ lb diced cooked ham
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Egg Mixture
- 8 large eggs
- 1½ cups milk
- ½ cup sour cream
- 2 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 2½ Tbsp hot sauce
- 1½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp garlic powder
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare dish: Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC). Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking pan with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Cook hash browns: Heat the canola oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the thawed shredded hash browns and cook until they are lightly browned and slightly crispy. Transfer the cooked hash browns evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- Add ham and cheese layers: Spread the diced cooked ham evenly over the browned hash browns. Then sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top of the ham layer.
- Mix egg custard: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, sour cream, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, onion powder, and garlic powder until fully combined and smooth.
- Pour egg mixture over casserole: Carefully pour the egg mixture over the layered hash browns, ham, and cheese, ensuring it distributes evenly to soak all layers.
- Bake the casserole: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 60 to 70 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is golden and slightly puffed.
- Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving warm. Enjoy your savory breakfast casserole!
Notes
- You can substitute cooked bacon or sausage for ham if preferred.
- Adjust the amount of hot sauce based on your preferred spice level.
- Make sure the hash browns are thawed completely to ensure even browning.
- Use a non-stick spray generously to avoid sticking and make cleanup easier.
- If you want a crispier top, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end of baking, watching carefully to avoid burning.
