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Hormel Hash Pre-Game Egg Bake

Sunday mornings in our house were always a little chaotic, but wonderfully so. The smell of coffee brewing and a slightly singed, savory aroma wafting from the kitchen meant one thing: Dad was making his famous breakfast casserole. It wasn’t fancy, but it was hearty, comforting, and fueled us for a day of backyard football and family fun. This Hormel Hash Pre-Game Egg Bake takes me right back to those mornings – a simple, satisfying dish that’s perfect for sharing with loved ones.

Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
Total Time: 50-55 minutes
Servings: 6
Yield: 1 baking dish
Dietary Type: Not Gluten-Free

Ingredients

4 large eggs, beaten
2 cups shredded Monterey Jack and Cheddar cheese blend
¾ cup small curd cottage cheese
1 (4 ¼ ounce) can diced green chilies
¼ cup chopped onion
¼ cup chopped red bell pepper
⅓ cup fine dry breadcrumbs or ⅓ cup finely crushed buttery crackers
1 (15 ounce) can Hormel Corned Beef Hash

Equipment Needed

9×9-inch baking dish
Large bowl
Small bowl
Whisk or fork
Measuring cups and spoons

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375ºF (190ºC). While the oven heats, lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter. This will prevent the egg bake from sticking and make serving easier.
In a large bowl, combine the beaten eggs, shredded Monterey Jack and Cheddar cheese blend, small curd cottage cheese, diced green chilies, chopped onion, and chopped red bell pepper. Mix all the ingredients thoroughly until well combined. The cottage cheese might seem lumpy at first, but keep stirring, and it will incorporate into the mixture.
In a separate, smaller bowl, combine the Hormel Corned Beef Hash with 1 cup of the egg mixture from the large bowl. Make sure the hash is evenly coated with the egg mixture.
Next, add the breadcrumbs (or crushed buttery crackers) to the hash and egg mixture. Stir well to ensure the crumbs are evenly distributed throughout the hash. This helps bind the mixture and adds a pleasant texture to the bottom layer of the bake.
Now it’s time to assemble the egg bake. Spread the hash mixture evenly in the prepared 9×9-inch baking dish. Use a spatula or spoon to ensure it covers the entire bottom of the dish.
Pour the remaining egg mixture from the large bowl over the hash layer. Gently spread it to ensure it covers the hash completely.
Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the egg bake is set. To check for doneness, gently shake the baking dish. The egg bake should be firm to the touch and not wobbly in the center. You can also insert a knife into the center; if it comes out clean, the bake is ready.
Remove the baked egg bake from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Serve warm and enjoy!

Expert Tips & Tricks

Cheese Boost: For an extra cheesy flavor, sprinkle a bit more shredded cheese on top during the last 10 minutes of baking.
Crispy Hash: For a crispier hash layer, spread the hash mixture in a thin, even layer in the baking dish and bake it for 10 minutes before adding the egg mixture.
Make-Ahead Magic: Assemble the egg bake the night before, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. Add a few minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.
Spice It Up: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the egg mixture.
Even Baking: If your oven tends to brown unevenly, rotate the baking dish halfway through the baking time.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve the Hormel Hash Pre-Game Egg Bake warm, straight from the oven. It’s delicious on its own, but a dollop of sour cream or a side of salsa adds a nice touch. For a more substantial meal, serve with a side of toast, fresh fruit, or a simple green salad.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat larger portions in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes.

Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of the eggs and cottage cheese can change upon thawing.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	367.1 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	212 g	58%
Total Fat	23.6 g	36%
Saturated Fat	12.2 g	60%
Cholesterol	201.4 mg	67%
Sodium	945.3 mg	39%
Total Carbohydrate	14.2 g	4%
Dietary Fiber	1.5 g	6%
Sugars	2.3 g	N/A
Protein	24.2 g	48%

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes.

Variations & Substitutions

Gluten-Free: Substitute the breadcrumbs or buttery crackers with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.
Vegetarian: Replace the Hormel Corned Beef Hash with a vegetarian hash alternative or a mixture of sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, potatoes, and onions.
Different Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different cheese blends. Pepper jack, mozzarella, or Gruyere would all be delicious additions.
Vegetable Medley: Add other chopped vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini to the egg mixture for extra nutrients and flavor.
Spicy Kick: Add a chopped jalapeno or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the egg mixture.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use a different size baking dish?

A: Yes, you can use a slightly larger or smaller baking dish, but the baking time may need to be adjusted accordingly. Keep an eye on the egg bake and check for doneness as described in the instructions.

Q: Can I substitute the cottage cheese with something else?

A: If you don’t like cottage cheese, you can substitute it with ricotta cheese or plain Greek yogurt. The texture and flavor will be slightly different, but it will still work well in the recipe.

Q: Can I make this egg bake in individual ramekins?

A: Yes, you can divide the mixture among individual ramekins. Reduce the baking time by about 10-15 minutes, or until the eggs are set.

Q: How do I prevent the bottom of the egg bake from being soggy?

A: Adding breadcrumbs to the hash mixture helps absorb excess moisture and prevent sogginess. Also, make sure to grease the baking dish well.

Q: What is the best way to reheat leftovers?

A: The best way to reheat leftovers is in the microwave or oven. Reheating in the microwave is quicker, but the oven will help maintain the texture better.

Final Thoughts

This Hormel Hash Pre-Game Egg Bake is more than just a recipe; it’s a warm hug on a plate. It’s a reminder that simple ingredients, combined with a little love and care, can create something truly special. Whether you’re serving it for a weekend brunch, a potluck gathering, or a cozy family dinner, I hope this dish brings you as much joy as it brings me. Give it a try, put your own spin on it, and let me know what you think! And, if you’re feeling adventurous, try pairing it with a side of crispy bacon and a refreshing mimosa for the ultimate brunch experience. Happy cooking!

Hormel Hash Pre-Game Egg Bake Recipe