Farmers Casserole Recipe

Hash browns: Thawed frozen potatoes that form the base of the casserole, providing a crispy texture.

Cheddar cheese: Shredded cheese that adds a rich, creamy flavor to the dish.

Ham: Diced ham pieces that bring a savory, meaty element to the casserole.

Green onions: Chopped green onions that add a fresh, mild onion flavor.

Eggs: Beaten eggs that bind the ingredients together and create a fluffy texture.

Evaporated milk: A canned milk product that adds creaminess and richness to the casserole.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

Black pepper: Adds a hint of spice and depth to the casserole.

When preparing the hash browns for this casserole, ensure they are thoroughly thawed and patted dry with a paper towel. Excess moisture can make the dish soggy. Additionally, for a more flavorful twist, consider lightly browning the hash browns in a skillet with a bit of butter before layering them in the baking dish. This step adds a delightful crispness and enhances the overall texture of the casserole.

• thawed frozen hash browns - Substitute with freshly grated potatoes: Freshly grated potatoes can provide a similar texture and flavor, and they can be used immediately without needing to thaw.

• shredded cheddar cheese - Substitute with shredded mozzarella cheese: Mozzarella has a mild flavor and melts well, making it a good alternative to cheddar.

• diced ham - Substitute with cooked bacon: Cooked bacon adds a smoky flavor and a similar protein content, making it a suitable replacement for ham.

• chopped green onions - Substitute with chopped chives: Chives have a similar mild onion flavor and can be used in the same quantity as green onions.

• beaten eggs - Substitute with egg substitute: Egg substitutes can be used for those who are vegan or have egg allergies, providing similar binding and texture.

• evaporated milk - Substitute with half-and-half: Half-and-half provides a similar creamy texture and richness, making it a good alternative to evaporated milk.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a salty flavor along with a bit of umami, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.

• black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a similar heat and can be used in the same quantity, providing a slightly different but still complementary flavor.

• Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the dish soggy.
• For short-term storage, cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil or transfer the casserole to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• For longer storage, cut the casserole into individual portions. Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
• To reheat from the refrigerator, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in an oven-safe dish and cover with aluminum foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through.
• To reheat from frozen, it’s best to thaw the casserole in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, follow the same reheating instructions as for refrigerated storage.
• If you need to reheat directly from frozen, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in an oven-safe dish, cover with aluminum foil, and bake for about 45-60 minutes, or until heated through. You may need to remove the foil during the last 10-15 minutes to allow the top to crisp up.
• For a quicker option, you can reheat individual portions in the microwave. Place a portion on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a microwave-safe cover or paper towel, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, or until hot.

• Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the leftover farmers casserole in an oven-safe dish.
  3. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out.
  4. Heat for about 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through.
  5. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes to let the top crisp up.

• Microwave Method:

  1. Place a portion of the farmers casserole on a microwave-safe plate.
  2. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
  3. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes.
  4. Check the temperature and stir if necessary. Continue heating in 30-second intervals until warmed through.

• Stovetop Method:

  1. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add a small amount of olive oil or butter to the skillet.
  3. Place a portion of the farmers casserole in the skillet.
  4. Cover with a lid and heat for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the casserole is heated through.

• Air Fryer Method:

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the leftover farmers casserole in the air fryer basket.
  3. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even heating.
  4. Check to make sure the casserole is heated through and has a crispy top.

• Oven: Used to bake the casserole at a consistent temperature of 350°F (175°C).

• 9x13-inch baking dish: The dish where all ingredients are layered and baked.

• Cooking spray: Used to grease the baking dish to prevent sticking.

• Mixing bowl: Used to combine the beaten eggs, evaporated milk, salt, and pepper.

• Whisk: Used to beat the eggs and mix them with the evaporated milk, salt, and pepper.

• Measuring cups: Used to measure the hash browns, cheese, ham, and evaporated milk accurately.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure the salt and black pepper.

• Knife: Used to chop the green onions and dice the ham.

• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping the green onions and dicing the ham.

• Spatula: Used to spread the hash browns evenly in the baking dish and to help serve the casserole.

• Oven mitts: Used to safely handle the hot baking dish when removing it from the oven.

Prep ingredients ahead: Chop green onions and dice ham the night before to save time in the morning.

Use pre-shredded cheese: Opt for pre-shredded cheddar cheese to cut down on prep time.

Thaw hash browns overnight: Place frozen hash browns in the refrigerator the night before to ensure they are ready to use.

Mix wet ingredients in advance: Combine beaten eggs, evaporated milk, salt, and pepper in a bowl and refrigerate until ready to use.

Use cooking spray: Grease the baking dish with cooking spray for a quick and easy solution.