Ultimate Loaded Hash Brown Casserole
Indulge in this Ultimate Loaded Hash Brown Casserole—an enticing twist on the classic breakfast dish! Perfectly crispy on the outside and wonderfully cheesy on the inside, this casserole features delectable bacon, fluffy shredded potatoes, and a medley of green onions topped with melty cheddar cheese. Easy to assemble and ideal for brunch gatherings or hearty breakfasts, this satisfying dish will surely impress family and friends. Serve it hot and watch everyone dig in!
4
Servings
300
Calories
4
Ingredients
Ingredients
bacon
8 ounces (cut into small pieces)
shredded potatoes
16 ounces (frozen or fresh, thawed if frozen)
green onions
3 (chopped)
cheddar cheese
4 ounces (shredded)
Instructions
1
In a cast iron skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon pieces until they become crispy. Remove them from the skillet and allow to cool on a paper towel-lined plate. Do not drain the bacon fat as it will be used for cooking the potatoes.
2
Once the bacon is cool, crumble it into small pieces and set aside.
3
In the same skillet with the reserved bacon fat, evenly spread the shredded potatoes. Allow them to cook undisturbed for about 5-7 minutes, or until the bottom is golden brown.
4
Sprinkle chopped green onions over the potatoes, and carefully flip the mixture to brown the other side. Cook for another 5-7 minutes until both sides are crispy and golden.
5
Once browned, sprinkle the crumbled bacon evenly over the top of the potatoes, followed by the shredded cheddar cheese.
6
Place the skillet under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep a close eye to prevent burning.
7
Remove the skillet from the oven, let it cool slightly, and serve hot!
Nutrition Information
21g
Fat
15g
Carbs
12g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Ultimate Loaded Hash Brown Casserole?
It is an enticing twist on a classic breakfast dish featuring crispy potatoes, bacon, green onions, and melted cheddar cheese.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe makes 4 servings.
What are the primary ingredients?
The main ingredients are 8 ounces of bacon, 16 ounces of shredded potatoes, 3 green onions, and 4 ounces of cheddar cheese.
Can I use frozen hash browns?
Yes, you can use frozen shredded potatoes, but make sure they are thawed before cooking.
How should the bacon be prepared?
Cut the bacon into small pieces and cook in a skillet until crispy, then crumble them for the topping.
Should I drain the bacon fat?
No, do not drain the bacon fat because it is used to cook and flavor the potatoes.
How long do the potatoes need to cook?
Cook the potatoes undisturbed for 5-7 minutes per side until they are golden brown and crispy.
When should I add the green onions?
Sprinkle the chopped green onions over the potatoes just before flipping them to brown the second side.
How do I melt the cheese?
Place the skillet under the broiler for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
What type of cheese is best for this recipe?
The recipe recommends using 4 ounces of shredded cheddar cheese.
Is a cast iron skillet necessary?
A cast iron skillet is ideal for even heat and broiler safety, but any oven-safe skillet will work.
How many calories are in one serving?
There are 300 calories per serving.
What is the fat content per serving?
Each serving contains 21g of fat.
How many carbohydrates are in this dish?
There are 15g of carbohydrates per serving.
What is the protein content?
Each serving provides 12g of protein.
Is this recipe suitable for brunch?
Yes, it is ideal for brunch gatherings or a hearty family breakfast.
How do I ensure the hash browns are crispy?
Let them cook undisturbed in the reserved bacon fat for the full 5-7 minutes per side.
Can I add other vegetables?
Yes, you can customize it by adding peppers or mushrooms when you add the green onions.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
What is the best way to reheat this casserole?
Reheat in a skillet or oven to maintain the crispiness of the potatoes.
Can I use a different cheese?
Yes, cheeses like Pepper Jack, Colby, or Monterey Jack would be delicious substitutes.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The core ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but always verify your specific brands of bacon and hash browns.
How many green onions are needed?
The recipe calls for 3 chopped green onions.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes, omit the bacon and use butter or oil to fry the potatoes instead of bacon fat.
How long does the entire process take?
The total cooking and prep time is approximately 20 to 25 minutes.
What can I serve with this casserole?
It pairs well with eggs, fresh fruit, or toast.
Is this recipe considered easy?
Yes, it is an easy-to-assemble dish suitable for beginners.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, though you may need to use two skillets or cook in batches to ensure crispiness.
Should I season the potatoes?
The bacon fat and cheese provide salt, but you can add salt and pepper to taste if desired.
Why is it called 'Loaded' hash browns?
It is called 'Loaded' because it is packed with flavorful toppings like crispy bacon, fresh onions, and plenty of cheese.