Tired of rushing through breakfast or settling for bland options? Say hello to the **Ultimate Wake-Up Casserole**, your new go-to for a truly satisfying morning meal! This incredible recipe takes the beloved simplicity of hash browns and elevates it with layers of savory ham, rich shredded Cheddar cheese, and fluffy eggs, all bound together with creamy milk. It’s a delightful combination that guarantees a burst of flavor and a feeling of warmth and contentment with every bite. Perfect for busy weekdays, leisurely weekends, or holiday brunches, this casserole is designed to be easy to prepare, incredibly delicious, and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser for everyone at your table.

Imagine waking up to the aroma of a freshly baked casserole, golden brown and bubbling with cheesy goodness. This Wake-Up Casserole isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience that promises to energize you and put a smile on your face. Forget complicated recipes and endless cleanup – this dish is all about maximizing flavor and minimizing effort, ensuring you start your day on the absolute best foot. Get ready to enjoy a breakfast that’s as convenient as it is delicious!

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We all have those mornings where starting the day feels like a monumental task. Luckily, this Wake-Up Casserole is designed to equip you with strength and energy from the moment you take your first bite. This delightful, hearty dish relies on simple, wholesome ingredients to kick-start your day and sustain your energy levels until lunchtime. It’s the perfect solution for busy families or anyone looking for a no-fuss yet incredibly flavorful breakfast. With its blend of savory ham, crispy hash browns, and creamy eggs, this casserole delivers comfort and satisfaction in every forkful, making it an ideal choice for any morning.

Ingredients

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating this fantastic breakfast. Using good quality components will make all the difference in the final taste and texture of your casserole.

• 8 frozen hash brown patties (Look for rectangular or square patties for easy arrangement in the dish.)

• 4 cups shredded Cheddar cheese (Freshly shredded melts better than pre-shredded.)

• 1 pound cooked ham, cut into cubes (Leftover holiday ham works perfectly, or use pre-packaged diced ham.)

• 7 eggs (Large eggs are recommended for consistency.)

• 1 cup milk (Whole milk provides a richer consistency, but 2% or skim milk can also be used.)

• 1/2 teaspoon salt (Adjust to taste, especially if your ham is very salty.)

• 1/2 teaspoon ground mustard (This secret ingredient adds a subtle, tangy depth of flavor that complements the ham and cheese beautifully.)

Directions

Follow these simple steps to create a show-stopping breakfast casserole that’s sure to impress!

1. Prepare Your Oven and Dish: Preheat your oven to a steady 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). This ensures the casserole bakes evenly from the start. While the oven is heating, generously grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. You can use butter, cooking spray, or shortening to prevent sticking, making for easier serving and cleanup.
2. Layer the Base: Carefully arrange the frozen hash brown patties in a single layer on the bottom of your prepared baking dish. You might need to overlap them slightly to cover the entire surface. Once the hash browns are in place, sprinkle an even layer of shredded Cheddar cheese over them, followed by the cubed cooked ham. This creates a flavorful foundation for your casserole.
3. Whip the Egg Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, crack the 7 eggs. Add the cup of milk, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of ground mustard. Using a whisk, beat the mixture vigorously until the eggs are well scrambled and all ingredients are thoroughly combined and slightly frothy. This ensures a smooth, uniform texture in your baked casserole. Carefully pour this egg mixture evenly over the ham and cheese layers in the baking dish. Cover the entire baking dish tightly with aluminum foil.
4. Bake to Perfection: Place the foil-covered baking dish into the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour. The foil helps to steam the casserole, ensuring the hash browns cook through and the egg mixture sets without drying out. After 1 hour, carefully remove the aluminum foil. Return the casserole to the oven and continue baking for another 10 to 15 minutes, or until the edges are beautifully golden brown and a knife inserted into the center of the casserole comes out clean, indicating it’s fully cooked.
5. Rest and Serve: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the layers to set slightly, making it easier to cut into neat portions. Serve hot and enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions About Our Wake-Up Casserole

We’ve compiled answers to some common questions to help you make the most of this delightful breakfast casserole.

Q: What makes this Wake-Up Casserole so satisfying and delicious?
A: This Wake-Up Casserole is a truly satisfying meal because it perfectly balances rich, savory flavors with comforting textures. The base of crispy, golden hash brown patties provides a wonderful foundation, while the generous amounts of shredded Cheddar cheese melt into a creamy, flavorful layer. Cubes of savory ham add a hearty, salty counterpoint, and the fluffy egg and milk mixture binds everything together beautifully. The touch of ground mustard is a subtle but key ingredient, enhancing the overall depth and complexity of the dish without overpowering it. It’s a complete meal that feels both indulgent and comforting, ensuring you feel fueled and happy.

Q: How long will this casserole keep me feeling fueled?
A: Thanks to its robust combination of ingredients, this casserole is designed to keep you feeling energized and full for hours. The eggs and ham provide a significant source of protein, which is crucial for sustained energy and satiety. The hash browns offer complex carbohydrates for a steady release of energy, avoiding the sugar crash associated with many breakfast foods. And the cheese adds healthy fats and more protein, contributing to that long-lasting feeling of fullness. You can confidently expect to stay satisfied until lunchtime, making it an excellent choice for busy mornings.

Q: Can I prepare this Wake-Up Casserole ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! This casserole is an excellent make-ahead option, perfect for holiday mornings or hectic weekdays. You can assemble the entire casserole the night before, following all the steps up to covering it with foil (Step 3). Store it in the refrigerator overnight. In the morning, simply preheat your oven and bake as directed, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the initial covered baking time to account for it being chilled. This allows the casserole to warm through evenly before the foil is removed for browning.

Q: Are there any variations I can try with this recipe?
A: Yes, this casserole is incredibly versatile! You can easily customize it to suit your taste or what you have on hand.

• Vegetables: Sautéed onions, bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms can be added along with the ham for extra flavor and nutrients. Just make sure to cook them down first to remove excess moisture.
• Different Meats: Instead of ham, consider cooked crumbled sausage, bacon bits, or even diced cooked chicken.
• Cheese: Experiment with other cheeses like Colby Jack, Swiss, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend for different flavor profiles.
• Spices: A pinch of black pepper, garlic powder, or onion powder can enhance the savory notes. A dash of hot sauce in the egg mixture could add a nice kick!

Q: How should I store leftover Wake-Up Casserole?
A: Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can microwave individual servings until heated through, or cover the casserole loosely with foil and warm it in an oven at 300°F (150°C) until thoroughly heated, about 20-30 minutes. Be careful not to overcook, as this can dry out the eggs.

Q: Can I freeze this breakfast casserole?
A: Yes, this casserole freezes well! Once baked and cooled completely, cut it into individual servings. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. To reheat from frozen, unwrap a piece and microwave it on a defrost setting, then continue heating until warm, or bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 30-40 minutes, covered, until heated through.

Q: What should I serve with the Wake-Up Casserole?
A: This hearty casserole is quite complete on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a few simple sides. Consider serving it with fresh fruit salad for a refreshing contrast, a side of toasted English muffins or crusty bread, or a simple green salad for a brunch setting. Don’t forget coffee, tea, or orange juice to complete your breakfast experience!