Are you ready to try a cozy, savory twist on a classic breakfast favorite? This Savory Sweet Potato Hash Brown Casserole combines the comfort of hash browns with the nutritious punch of sweet potatoes, making it perfect for any meal of the day.
The star of this dish is the sweet potatoes, offering a natural sweetness and hearty texture. Onion and red bell pepper bring flavor depth and a bit of crunch. Fresh spinach sneaks in some greens, adding color and nutrients. Cheddar cheese provides a creamy, melty finish that ties everything together. The olive oil helps sauté the veggies, while garlic powder and smoked paprika add a smoky, savory kick. Black pepper and salt enhance the flavors. The sour cream and milk create a luscious base mixed with eggs for binding. Finally, a touch of butter on top ensures a golden, crispy finish.
This casserole pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. For brunch, serve it alongside scrambled eggs or a quiche. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of chives on top can add a nice touch.
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and greasing a 9x13 inch baking dish. This will prevent sticking and ensure easy serving later. Next, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the onion and bell pepper, cooking until they're softened — this should take about 5 minutes. You’ll notice the kitchen starting to smell wonderful.
Add the grated sweet potatoes to the skillet. Keep stirring occasionally for another 5 minutes, letting the potatoes soften and mingle with the onions and peppers. Then, stir in the spinach, along with garlic powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. Cook for 2 more minutes until the spinach is wilted. This step really builds the flavor base for the casserole.
In a large bowl, whisk together sour cream, milk, and beaten eggs. Pour the cooked vegetable mixture into this bowl, add 1 cup of the cheddar cheese, and give it all a good mix. This is where it starts coming together into a cohesive dish.
Transfer everything into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Top with the remaining cheddar cheese and drizzle with melted butter. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden and the casserole is set. Let it cool for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the casserole to firm up.