A beautifully baked breakfast casserole loaded with tender potatoes, juicy ham, melted cheese and green onions is one of the easiest and most satisfying dishes you can prepare when you need something comforting, filling, and crowd-friendly. The casserole in the photo is the perfect example of a golden, cheesy top with soft layers underneath, making it ideal for family breakfasts, Sunday brunches, potlucks, or even weeknight dinners. What makes this recipe especially appealing is its amazing balance between creamy texture and savory flavor, thanks to the combination of eggs, ham, cheese, and perfectly cooked potatoes. This dish is not only delicious but also practical, as it allows you to assemble everything in one baking dish and let the oven do most of the work.
One of the secrets to making a perfect cheesy breakfast casserole is choosing the right ingredients and preparing them in a way that helps create a smooth, consistent texture. Diced potatoes work wonderfully because they absorb flavors well and keep their structure without becoming mushy. Ham adds a smoky richness that pairs beautifully with melted cheese, while green onions bring a fresh pop that brightens the entire dish. The egg mixture binds everything together and gives the casserole its classic soft, custardy interior that makes every slice incredibly satisfying.
This recipe is also very flexible, making it easy to customize based on what you have in your kitchen. You can use leftover ham from a holiday meal, switch the potatoes for hash browns, or mix in additional vegetables such as bell peppers, spinach, mushrooms, or tomatoes. Cheddar cheese gives the casserole its golden, bubbly finish, but you can also use mozzarella, Monterey Jack, Swiss, or any melting cheese you prefer. For added flavor, some cooks like to sprinkle paprika, garlic powder, or a touch of chili flakes to enhance the depth of taste. No matter how you choose to personalize it, the result will always be hearty, comforting, and delicious.
Because it can be prepared in advance, this casserole is especially convenient for busy mornings. You can assemble all ingredients the night before, cover the dish, refrigerate it, and bake it fresh in the morning. The aroma of cheese and ham baking in the oven creates a warm and inviting atmosphere that makes everyone excited to gather around the table. And since the dish cuts neatly into squares, it is also perfect for serving large groups without any hassle. Whether you are cooking for your family or preparing food for guests, this casserole always turns out beautifully and requires very little effort.
Below is the complete step-by-step recipe so you can recreate the exact casserole shown in the picture.
Ingredients
4 cups diced potatoes (fresh or frozen)
2 cups diced ham
2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
1 cup chopped green onions
8 large eggs
1 ½ cups milk or cream
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
½ teaspoon paprika (optional)
2 tablespoons butter or oil for greasing the dish
Instructions
Start by preparing your baking dish. Choose a large glass or ceramic casserole dish and lightly grease it with butter or oil. This helps prevent sticking and allows the edges of the casserole to brown beautifully. While you prepare the ingredients, preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) so it reaches the perfect temperature by the time everything is assembled.
If you’re using fresh potatoes, peel them and dice them into small cubes. For frozen diced potatoes or hash browns, make sure they are thawed and drained of excess moisture. Spread the potatoes evenly in the bottom of the baking dish to create the first layer. Next, add the diced ham on top of the potatoes, distributing it so that every bite of the casserole has a balanced amount of ham.
Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the ham. Adding a generous amount of cheese is essential for achieving that irresistible golden crust you see in the image. Mozzarella gives a stretchy melt, while cheddar adds flavor and color. Use both for the best result. Then sprinkle chopped green onions over the cheese. These add freshness and a subtle onion flavor that lifts the richness of the dish.
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika until smooth. This mixture will be the binder that holds all the layers together. Pour the egg mixture slowly and evenly over the casserole. Make sure it seeps into every corner so the potatoes cook properly and the entire dish becomes soft and cohesive.
Once assembled, place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 45–55 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbling and the center is set. You can test it by inserting a knife into the middle — if it comes out clean, the casserole is ready. Allow it to cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. This resting time helps the layers firm up, making it much easier to cut clean squares just like those shown in the photo.
The beauty of this casserole is that it reheats perfectly. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days, and they warm up well in the oven or microwave. This makes it a great meal-prep option for busy weekdays. You can also freeze portions for longer storage and enjoy a quick homemade meal whenever you like.
This cheesy ham and potato breakfast casserole combines comfort, convenience, and bold flavor in one easy recipe. Whether you are preparing a weekend brunch or a simple family dinner, this dish always impresses with its satisfying texture and rich, cheesy finish. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, it’s a recipe you will find yourself returning to again and again.