If you are looking for a comforting, flavorful breakfast that brings all the best parts of a Denver omelet and the crispy goodness of hash browns into one delicious dish, you have to try this Easy Denver Omelet Hash Brown Casserole Recipe. It’s a true crowd-pleaser that combines tender sautéed vegetables, savory ham, fluffy eggs, and melty cheese baked to golden perfection. Whether you are serving brunch for family or prepping a make-ahead meal, this casserole hits all the right notes with minimal fuss but maximum taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of the Easy Denver Omelet Hash Brown Casserole Recipe is in its use of simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create a dish bursting with flavor and heartiness. Each component plays a key role: vibrant bell peppers add sweet crunch and color, ham brings a rich, smoky undertone, and eggs and cheese provide that irresistible creamy texture you love in breakfast casseroles.
- Olive oil or butter: For sautéing the vegetables, adding a touch of richness.
- 1 small onion, diced: Provides sweetness and depth to the base flavor.
- 1 small green bell pepper, diced: Adds a fresh, slightly bitter crunch.
- 1 small red bell pepper, diced: Balances with a sweet, crisp bite and beautiful color.
- 1 cup diced cooked ham: The savory heart of the casserole that keeps things hearty.
- 2 cups frozen shredded hash browns, thawed: Gives the dish a crispy, golden base and satisfying texture.
- 8 large eggs: The protein-packed binder that makes this casserole irresistible.
- ½ cup milk: Adds creaminess, keeping the eggs tender and moist.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melted cheese provides a rich, gooey finish with a sharp taste.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle warmth and spice.
- Chopped chives or parsley (optional): For a fresh and colorful garnish to brighten the dish.
How to Make Easy Denver Omelet Hash Brown Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Ingredients
Begin by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and lightly greasing a 9×9-inch baking dish. This ensures your casserole won’t stick, and the cooking temperature will allow all the flavors to meld perfectly while giving you a golden-brown top.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables and Ham
Warm olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Toss in your diced onion and bell peppers, and cook them for about 3 to 4 minutes until they soften and release their sweetness. Next, stir in the diced cooked ham and let it cook for another 2 minutes to deepen the flavors. Once everything smells amazing and looks tender, remove the skillet from the heat.
Step 3: Mix the Egg Base
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and black pepper until smooth and well combined. This creates the custard-like batter that wraps everything together to become the heart of your casserole.
Step 4: Combine and Assemble
Fold in the thawed hash browns, the sautéed vegetable and ham mixture, and ¾ cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Make sure everything is well incorporated so every bite is balanced. Pour this wonderful mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining ¼ cup of cheese on top for a melty, cheesy crust.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes or until the center is set and the top is delightfully golden. Once your kitchen is filled with that warm, delicious smell, let the casserole cool for about 5 minutes to make slicing easier and mess-free.
How to Serve Easy Denver Omelet Hash Brown Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing with freshly chopped chives or parsley is a small step that makes a big visual and flavor impact. The herbs add a burst of color and a fresh, mild onion-like brightness that complements the rich, cheesy casserole beautifully.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs wonderfully with simple sides like fresh fruit salad, a crisp green salad with light vinaigrette, or even a dollop of sour cream or salsa on the side if you want to play up a southwestern vibe. These add texture contrast and freshness, rounding out your meal perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun brunch presentation, serve the casserole in individual ramekins or mini baking dishes. You could also add a sprinkle of crispy bacon bits on top or a drizzle of hot sauce for guests who like a bit of extra kick. Don’t be afraid to get playful—presentation can make this homey dish feel extra special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Easy Denver Omelet Hash Brown Casserole Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors often meld even better overnight, making the leftovers a delightful next-day treat.
Freezing
This casserole freezes well if you want to prepare it in advance. Wrap tightly with foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the microwave or oven until warmed through. For oven reheating, cover with foil and bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 15–20 minutes. This helps maintain the casserole’s moisture and allows the cheese to melt back into that comforting gooeyness.
FAQs
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?
Absolutely! If you prefer fresh potatoes, grate and squeeze out excess moisture before using. Just be aware that fresh potatoes might slightly alter the texture and may need a little extra cooking time to become tender.
Is there a vegetarian version of the Easy Denver Omelet Hash Brown Casserole Recipe?
Yes, you can skip the ham and instead add mushrooms, tofu, or your favorite plant-based protein. Adding extra veggies like zucchini or spinach will keep the dish hearty and flavorful.
Can I make this casserole dairy-free?
Definitely! Use dairy-free cheese and substitute milk with almond, oat, or soy milk. Olive oil or a dairy-free butter alternative will work great for sautéing the vegetables.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
Add diced jalapeños with the bell peppers, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes, or serve with hot sauce on the side. Pepper jack cheese is another excellent choice for adding a bit of heat.
What is the best way to reheat this casserole without drying it out?
Covering the casserole with foil while reheating in the oven helps retain moisture. In the microwave, reheating in short bursts and covering with a microwave-safe lid or wrap keeps it from drying out.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Denver Omelet Hash Brown Casserole Recipe has quickly become one of my favorite go-to dishes for brunch, weekend breakfasts, or even a cozy dinner. It’s easy to prepare, satisfying, and packed with flavors everyone loves. Give it a try—you might just find it becomes a new staple on your table as well!
Print
Easy Denver Omelet Hash Brown Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Breakfast, Brunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Easy Denver Omelet Hash Brown Casserole is a hearty and flavorful breakfast or brunch dish featuring sautéed onions, bell peppers, diced ham, and shredded hash browns baked with eggs and cheddar cheese. It combines classic Denver omelet flavors with the convenience of a casserole, making it perfect for meal prep or casual weekend mornings.
Ingredients
Vegetables and Meat
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 small green bell pepper, diced
- 1 small red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup diced cooked ham
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups frozen shredded hash browns, thawed
- 8 large eggs
- ½ cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Garnish (Optional)
- Chopped chives or parsley
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×9-inch or similar-sized baking dish to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Sauté Vegetables and Ham: Heat the olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and both diced bell peppers, cooking for 3–4 minutes until they are softened. Add the diced cooked ham and cook for an additional 2 minutes to warm through and blend flavors, then remove the skillet from heat.
- Mix Egg Base: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the 8 large eggs, ½ cup milk, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper until fully combined and slightly frothy.
- Combine Ingredients: Stir the thawed shredded hash browns, sautéed vegetables with ham, and ¾ cup of the shredded cheddar cheese into the egg mixture, ensuring an even distribution of all components.
- Assemble Casserole: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining ¼ cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top to create a golden cheesy crust during baking.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the center is set and the top turns a nice golden brown color.
- Rest and Garnish: Remove from the oven and allow the casserole to cool for 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped chives or parsley if desired, and serve warm.
Notes
- You can use pre-diced ham or leftover holiday ham to save time.
- For extra flavor, consider adding mushrooms or substituting cheddar cheese with pepper jack cheese.
- This casserole can be made ahead of time and reheated, making it an excellent option for meal prep or brunch.
