If you love savory, satisfying breakfasts, this Farmer’s Casserole with Chicken Ham is the perfect dish to start your day. Packed with crispy hash browns, creamy Monterey Jack cheese, tender chicken ham, and a rich egg custard, this casserole is easy to make and perfect for meal prep. Whether you’re serving a weekend brunch, feeding a crowd, or prepping ahead, this dish is a guaranteed winner.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔️ Comfort Food Favorite – Creamy, cheesy, and loaded with flavor.
✔️ Perfect for Meal Prep – Make ahead and reheat for quick breakfasts.
✔️ Customizable – Add veggies, spices, or swap proteins.
✔️ One Dish, Less Cleanup – Everything bakes in one pan.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Casserole:
- 3 cups frozen hash browns (thawed slightly)
- ¾ cup shredded Monterey Jack pepper cheese
- 1 cup cubed cooked chicken ham
- ¼ cup green onion, chopped
- 4 eggs, well beaten
- 1 (12-ounce) can evaporated milk
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
Step 2: Layer the Ingredients
- Spread hash browns evenly in the baking dish.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese, followed by chicken ham and green onions.
Step 3: Mix the Egg Mixture
- In a bowl, whisk together eggs, evaporated milk, and black pepper.
- Pour over the casserole evenly, letting it soak into the layers.
Step 4: Bake Until Golden
- Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for another 15–20 minutes, until the top is golden brown and set.
Step 5: Cool & Serve
- Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing.
- Garnish with extra green onions or paprika if desired.
Why This Recipe Works So Well
The creamy egg custard soaks into the hash browns, creating a rich, hearty texture. The cheese melts perfectly, and the chicken ham adds a smoky, savory balance. Baking everything together locks in flavor and creates the perfect bite every time.
Variations to Try
✔️ Spicy Kick – Add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes.
✔️ Veggie Boost – Stir in bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach.
✔️ Different Cheese – Swap Monterey Jack for cheddar, Swiss, or Colby-Jack.
✔️ Low-Carb Option – Use cauliflower hash browns instead.
Tips for the Best Farmer’s Casserole
🔹 Thaw Hash Browns Slightly – Helps them cook evenly.
🔹 Use Fresh Cheese – Pre-shredded cheese doesn’t melt as well.
🔹 Let It Rest Before Slicing – Helps the layers hold together.
🔹 Make It Ahead – Refrigerate overnight and bake fresh in the morning.
Serving Suggestions
🍞 With Toast or Biscuits – Perfect for soaking up extra flavors.
🥗 With a Side Salad – A fresh contrast to the rich casserole.
🥤 With a Beverage – Pair with coffee, tea, or orange juice.
Final Thoughts
This Farmer’s Casserole with Chicken Ham is the ultimate breakfast comfort food, bringing together cheesy, creamy, and hearty flavors in one easy dish. Whether you’re serving it for a family breakfast, brunch, or meal prep, it’s a guaranteed hit.
So why not give it a try today? Enjoy a delicious, homemade breakfast with minimal effort!
👉 Have you made this recipe? Let us know in the comments!