Growing up in a family of farmers, weekend brunches were a time-honored tradition. The Farmer’s Casserole was Grandma’s secret to pulling everyone together, even after the busiest of harvests. It’s more than a recipe; it’s a tapestry of memories, each bite taking us back to the laughter-filled mornings at the family table.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Servings: 8

Shopping List:

  • Artisanal bacon
  • Organic potatoes
  • Green onions
  • Fat-free evaporated milk
  • Egg Beaters
  • Reduced-fat Monterrey blend cheese
  • Extra Virgin olive oil
  • Sea salt
  • Black pepper

Ingredients:

  • 6 slices of premium, artisanal bacon, diced and cooked to perfection
  • 6 cups of organically sourced, diced potatoes
  • 2 green onions, freshly chopped
  • 2 cans of fat-free evaporated milk for a lush consistency
  • 2 cups of Egg Beaters, the ultimate egg substitute for a lighter fare
  • 1-1/2 cups of Monterrey blend cheese, reduced fat for richness without the guilt
  • 1 tbsp. of the finest extra Virgin olive oil
  • 1/2 tsp. of sea salt, hand-harvested for purity
  • 1/2 tsp. of black pepper, freshly ground for a piquant zest

Instructions:

  1. Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C), setting the stage for a warm and comforting bake.
  2. Take a large skillet and pour in the tablespoon of extra Virgin olive oil, heating it over a medium flame until it just starts to shimmer. Add your diced artisanal bacon and cook it until it’s crispy and golden, releasing its rich flavors.
  3. In a generously-sized casserole dish, layer your organically sourced diced potatoes as the base, creating a bed of earthy goodness.
  4. Sprinkle the freshly chopped green onions over the potatoes, distributing them evenly for a subtle, oniony crispness in every bite.
  5. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the two cans of fat-free evaporated milk with the Egg Beaters until the mixture is smooth and homogenous. This blend will ensure your casserole is luxuriously creamy without being overly heavy.
  6. Pour this mixture over the layered potatoes and green onions, allowing the liquid to seep down and coat every nook and cranny.
  7. Take your cooked bacon and scatter it across the top, followed by an even sprinkling of the Monterrey blend cheese, reduced fat, to add a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
  8. Season the assembly with a half teaspoon each of hand-harvested sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste, for that perfect seasoning that complements the dish without overpowering it.
  9. Slide your casserole dish into the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is bubbly and golden-brown.
  10. Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes – patience will reward you with perfect slices.

Introduction: Embark on a culinary journey that marries comfort and health with our meticulously crafted Weight Watchers Home-Made Farmer’s Casserole. This savory delight is a testament to the art of balanced nutrition and culinary finesse, providing a satisfying dish that aligns seamlessly with your wellness goals. Dive into the layers of flavor, texture, and wholesomeness, as we unveil the secrets behind this nourishing casserole that promises to elevate your dining experience.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups frozen shredded hash browns
  • 1 cup reduced-fat shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup diced cooked ham
  • 1/4 cup diced green onions
  • 1/4 cup diced red bell pepper
  • 6 large eggs
  • 1 1/2 cups skim milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Cooking spray

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and generously coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray, ensuring a non-stick surface for your casserole.
  2. Evenly spread the frozen shredded hash browns on the bottom of the prepared baking dish, creating a hearty foundation for your farmer’s casserole.
  3. Sprinkle the diced cooked ham over the hash browns, creating a layer of savory goodness that will infuse the entire dish with rich flavor.
  4. Scatter the diced green onions and red bell pepper across the casserole, adding vibrant colors and a subtle crunch to each bite.
  5. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, skim milk, salt, black pepper, paprika, and dried thyme until well combined. This luscious egg mixture will serve as the binding agent for your casserole.
  6. Pour the egg mixture over the layered ingredients in the baking dish, ensuring that it evenly covers the entire casserole for a uniform and delightful result.
  7. Sprinkle the reduced-fat shredded cheddar cheese over the top, creating a decadent crown that will melt into a golden perfection as the casserole bakes.
  8. Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes or until the edges are golden brown, and the center is set.
  9. Once baked to perfection, remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to rest for a few minutes before slicing.
  10. Serve the Farmer’s Casserole warm, savoring the layers of flavors and textures that make this dish a culinary masterpiece.

Nutritional Information:

  • Serving Size: 1 square portion (approximately 1/12 of the casserole)
  • Calories: 150
  • Total Fat: 7g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 110mg
  • Sodium: 400mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 11g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 2g
  • Protein: 10g

Weight Watchers (WW) SmartPoints: 4 per serving

Conclusion: Our Weight Watchers Home-Made Farmer’s Casserole is not just a meal; it’s a culinary experience that embraces the principles of balanced nutrition without compromising on taste. From the golden hash brown base to the savory ham, crisp vegetables, and luscious egg and cheese ensemble, each layer contributes to a symphony of flavors. This casserole is designed to cater to your dietary preferences and wellness journey, ensuring a satiating yet mindful dining experience. With only 4 SmartPoints per serving, indulge in the joy of wholesome eating and savor the satisfaction of a dish that nourishes both body and soul.