Farmer’s Casserole is a hearty, down-to-earth dish that brings together simple ingredients like tender potatoes, savory sausage or bacon, and plenty of melted cheese. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for chilly mornings or lazy weekends.
I love how flexible this casserole is—you can mix and match whatever veggies or meats you have on hand, and it still turns out comforting and filling. One of my favorite tricks is to add a little bit of onion and bell pepper for a touch of sweetness and crunch. It’s always a crowd-pleaser when I serve it up for brunch with friends or family.
Whenever I make Farmer’s Casserole, I think about how it’s the kind of dish that can bring people around the table to slow down and enjoy a cozy meal together. It’s easy to prepare ahead and pop in the oven, so it’s great for busy mornings or when you want something warm and satisfying with minimal fuss.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Eggs: Eggs are the heart of this casserole, holding everything together while adding rich flavor. If you’re avoiding eggs, try using a vegan egg substitute or silken tofu blended until smooth.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar adds great sharpness and melts nicely. You can swap it for mozzarella for gooeyness or pepper jack for a little kick.
Breakfast Sausage / Ham: These provide savory flavor and texture. Ground turkey or cooked bacon are tasty alternatives. For a veggie version, use cooked mushrooms or plant-based sausage.
Frozen Mixed Vegetables: Peas, carrots, and green beans add color, crunch, and nutrition. Feel free to switch to fresh diced bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini depending on what you like.
Onions & Herbs: Onions bring mild sweetness; sautéing softens their bite. Rosemary or thyme give a woodsy aroma but you can leave them out or replace with parsley or chives.
How Do You Make Sure the Casserole Sets Without Getting Too Dry?
The goal is a creamy, firm casserole that isn’t rubbery or dry. Here’s what helps:
- Beat eggs and milk thoroughly so they blend smoothly and cook evenly.
- Use enough moisture: The milk provides needed liquid. Don’t reduce it unless you add other wet ingredients.
- Cook the veggies lightly: Thaw frozen veggies and sauté onions so excess moisture cooks off but they stay tender.
- Don’t overbake: Check the casserole around 30 minutes. It’s done when the edges look set and the center barely jiggles.
- Let it rest: Cooling a few minutes helps it firm up, making slicing easier.
With these steps, your Farmer’s Casserole will have a perfect texture that’s creamy inside and nicely golden on top.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×9-inch baking dish – I recommend this size because it’s just right for a cozy casserole and easy to serve.
- Large mixing bowl – makes whisking the eggs, milk, and seasonings simple and mess-free.
- Skillet or sauté pan – for cooking the onions and optional meats, adding extra flavor.
- Whisk – helps blend the eggs and milk smoothly, so your casserole holds together well.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate ingredient portions, ensuring perfect results.
- Oven mitts – safety first when removing the hot casserole from the oven.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Protein swap: Use cooked bacon or shredded cooked chicken instead of sausage or ham for different flavors.
- Cheese options: Mix shredded mozzarella or pepper jack for more gooeyness or spice.
- Veggie twist: Add sautéed spinach, diced bell peppers, or sliced mushrooms for extra color and nutrition.
- Spices: Sprinkle paprika, cumin, or add chopped herbs like parsley or chives to customize the taste.
Farmer’s Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup cooked and crumbled breakfast sausage or ground pork
- 1 cup cooked diced ham
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, green beans), thawed
- ½ cup diced onions
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary (optional)
- 1 tablespoon butter or oil (for greasing the pan)
- Fresh herb sprigs (rosemary or parsley) for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 30-35 minutes to bake. Allow a few minutes to cool before slicing and serving. In total, you’ll spend around 45 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Pan:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish using butter or oil to prevent sticking.
2. Cook the Onions:
In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the diced onions for about 3-4 minutes, until they become soft and translucent.
3. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and dried herbs if you’re using them. Then, add the cooked sausage, diced ham, sautéed onions, thawed mixed vegetables, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir everything well to combine.
4. Assemble and Bake:
Pour the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top. Bake in your preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is set in the center and the top turns golden brown.
5. Cool and Serve:
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. If you like, garnish with fresh herb sprigs, such as rosemary or parsley. Serve warm and enjoy your hearty Farmer’s Casserole!
Can I Use Frozen Vegetables Instead of Fresh?
Yes! Frozen mixed vegetables work perfectly for this casserole. Just be sure to thaw them first and drain any excess water to avoid a soggy dish.
Can I Make Farmer’s Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Can I Substitute the Meat?
Yes, you can swap breakfast sausage and ham for bacon, ground turkey, or even a vegetarian alternative to suit your taste and dietary preferences.
