This recipe first made its grand debut at a family brunch a few years ago. We had returned from a splendid fall trip to the mountains, inspired by the quaint bed and breakfasts we visited, each serving their own version of a hearty morning dish. I remember thinking, why not recreate that cozy mountain morning feel at home? So, armed with a can of evaporated milk, some farm-fresh eggs, and memories of our chilly morning hikes, I set out to make something delicious.
The result was spectacular and since then, it has become a staple. What I love most about this casserole is its simplicity and versatility. It’s a forgiving dish that allows for tweaks and substitutions depending on what’s in your fridge. Sometimes, I swap the ham for crumbled sausage or throw in different cheeses like sharp cheddar or gouda for a bit of a twist. Each variation keeps the dish exciting and new.
So, whether you’re looking to impress guests or just want to spice up your breakfast routine, this casserole promises to deliver warmth and joy to your table. It’s a testament to how simple ingredients, when combined thoughtfully, can create lasting memories. Now, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making this delightful dish that could soon become your next family favorite too.
How to Make Farmer’s Casserole
We will need:
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 4 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup cooked ham, diced
- 1 (12 fluid ounce) can evaporated milk
- 3 cups frozen hash brown potatoes
- 3/4 cup shredded pepper Jack cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- Cooking spray
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
Directions:
Start by heating your oven to 350 degrees F. Lightly coat a 2-quart casserole dish with cooking spray.
Next, lay the hash brown potatoes flat at the bottom of your greased dish. Layer on the shredded pepper Jack cheese, followed by the diced ham, and top with green onions.
In a separate bowl, mix together the evaporated milk, beaten eggs, black pepper, and salt until well combined. Gently pour this mixture over the layers in your casserole dish.
Place the dish in the oven and bake until you can insert a knife in the center and it comes out clean, about 40 to 45 minutes. Once done, allow the casserole to sit for 5 minutes before serving.
FAQs:
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns for this recipe?
Yes, you can use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns. However, you should grate them and squeeze out the excess moisture before using. This step ensures that your casserole isn’t overly watery. Fresh potatoes might also require a slightly longer baking time to achieve the desired crispiness.
Is it possible to make this casserole ahead of time?
Definitely, making this casserole ahead of time is a great way to save time. You can assemble all the ingredients in the casserole dish, cover it, and refrigerate overnight. When you’re ready to bake, let the dish come to room temperature while you preheat your oven. This approach not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
What are some suitable substitutions for pepper Jack cheese in this recipe?
If you prefer a milder flavor, cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese are excellent substitutes for pepper Jack cheese. Both cheeses melt well and complement the other ingredients. For those who enjoy a bit more heat, consider using a spicy cheddar or adding a few pinches of red pepper flakes to maintain the zest.
How do I know when the casserole is fully cooked?
The best way to check if your casserole is cooked is by inserting a knife into the center. If the knife comes out clean, your casserole is ready. Typically, this takes about 40 to 45 minutes in an oven preheated to 350 degrees F. Letting the casserole sit for 5 minutes after baking helps the ingredients set, making it easier to serve.
Can this recipe be adapted for a lower-fat version?
Absolutely, to create a lower-fat version of this casserole, you can use low-fat evaporated milk and a reduced-fat cheese option. Additionally, consider using a leaner cut of ham or even substituting it with turkey ham. These changes will help reduce the overall fat content without sacrificing too much flavor.
Amazing Farmer's Casserole
Ingredients
- 3 cups frozen shredded hash brown potatoes
- 3/4 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese with
- jalapeno peppers or shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup diced cooked ham or Canadian-style bacon
- 1/4 cup sliced green onions 2
- 4 beaten eggs or 1 cup refrigerated or frozen egg product thawed
- 1-1/2 cups milk or one 12-ounce can evaporated milk or evaporated fat-free milk
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
- Nonstick cooking spray
Instructions
- Coat a 2-quart square baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. Arrange potatoes evenly in the bottom of the dish. Sprinkle with cheese, ham, and green onions.
- In a bowl combine eggs, milk, salt, and pepper. Pour egg mixture over potato mixture in dish.
- Bake, uncovered, in a 350 degree F oven for 40 to 45 minutes or until a knife inserted near the center comes out clean. Let stand
- minutes before serving. Makes 6 servings.
- Make-ahead directions: Prepare as above through step 2. Cover and chill for up to 24 hours. Bake, uncovered, in a 350 degree oven for 50 to 55 minutes or until a knife inserted near the center comes out clean. Let stand 5 minutes before serving.
Makes: 6 Equal Servings
Nutritional Info Per Serving: Calories 265, Carbs 23 g, Fat 12 g, Fiber 2 g, Protein 17 g
