Name: Cheesy Amish Breakfast Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb bacon, cooked and crumbled; 1 medium onion, diced; 6 large eggs, beaten; 4 cups shredded hash browns (thawed if frozen); 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 ½ cups shredded Swiss cheese; 1 ½ cups cottage cheese; ½ tsp salt; ¼ tsp black pepper

There's nothing quite like waking up to the comforting aroma of a Cheesy Amish Breakfast Casserole baking in the oven. This hearty dish, packed with gooey melted cheese, crispy bacon, and tender potatoes, is the ultimate way to kick off your day.

I discovered this recipe on a family trip to Lancaster, Pennsylvania, where Amish cooking stole my heart. Simple ingredients come together to create a dish that's not only easy to make but also perfect for feeding a crowd. Whether it’s a cozy Sunday brunch or a holiday breakfast, this casserole is always a winner.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Amish Breakfast Casserole

Prepare to fall head over heels for this Cheesy Amish Breakfast Casserole. It’s more than just a breakfast dish; it’s the perfect blend of flavor, texture, and convenience.

First, this recipe is as easy as it gets. With just a handful of staple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up a filling, delicious casserole without breaking a sweat.

The savory flavor combination is irresistible. From the smoky bacon to the creamy cheeses, every bite is packed with homestyle goodness that’ll have your taste buds singing.

This dish is perfect for gatherings. Whether you're hosting brunch, feeding a hungry family, or meal-prepping for the week, this casserole is an effortless crowd-pleaser that reheats beautifully.

Not to mention, it’s versatile! You can easily customize the ingredients to suit your preferences or use what you have on hand.

Ready to get started? Let’s dive into the ingredients that make this dish shine.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Cheesy Amish Breakfast Casserole lies in its simple, hearty ingredients. Each one contributes to the casserole’s rich, comforting flavor.

Hash Browns: Shredded hash browns are the foundation of this casserole, providing a hearty, satisfying texture. Frozen hash browns work perfectly and save time.
Eggs: These bind everything together while adding richness. Use fresh, high-quality eggs for the best results.
Cheese: A mix of cheddar and Swiss cheese creates a perfect balance of sharpness and creaminess. Shred your cheese fresh for the ultimate melt.
Bacon: Crispy, smoky bacon adds a punch of flavor. You can also use cooked sausage or diced ham if preferred.
Onion: A finely chopped onion adds subtle sweetness and depth to the dish.
Cottage Cheese: This is a surprising yet essential ingredient. It adds creaminess without making the casserole heavy.

For equipment, all you need is a mixing bowl, a whisk, and a 9x13-inch baking dish. If you’re using a glass dish, reduce the oven temperature by 25°F to prevent over-browning.

How to Make This Cheesy Amish Breakfast Casserole

Creating this casserole is as simple as mixing, layering, and baking. Here’s how to do it step by step:

1. Prepare the Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats, cook your bacon in a skillet until crispy. Once cooled, crumble it into small pieces. Chop your onion and shred your cheddar and Swiss cheese if not pre-shredded.

2. Mix the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, a pinch of salt, and pepper. Stir in the cottage cheese, shredded cheeses, and chopped onion. Add the hash browns and crumbled bacon, folding everything gently until well combined.

3. Assemble the Casserole

Lightly grease your 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. Pour the mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly.

4. Bake to Perfection

Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 45–50 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the center is set. You’ll know it’s done when a knife inserted into the middle comes out clean.

Let the casserole cool for about 5 minutes before slicing and serving. This resting time allows the layers to settle, making each slice picture-perfect.

Storage Options

This casserole is a fantastic make-ahead meal, and leftovers store wonderfully:

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. It’s perfect for reheating single servings on busy mornings.
Freezer: Wrap individual portions in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Warm leftovers in the oven at 350°F or pop a slice in the microwave for 1–2 minutes.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how adaptable it is. Here are some ideas to mix things up:

Meat Swap: Substitute the bacon with cooked sausage, diced ham, or even vegetarian sausage crumbles for a meatless option.
Veggie Boost: Add chopped bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for extra nutrients and flavor.
Cheese Variations: Experiment with mozzarella, pepper jack, or Gruyère for a different twist on the cheesy base.
Gluten-Free: Most hash browns are naturally gluten-free, but double-check the label to be sure.
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for some heat.

Don’t be afraid to get creative. This casserole is the perfect canvas for your favorite flavors!

Make this Cheesy Amish Breakfast Casserole a staple in your breakfast rotation. Its warm, cheesy comfort will leave you and your family coming back for more – whether it’s a special occasion or just another day to celebrate good food.