FIRST STEP: PREPARE THE HASH BROWN LAYER

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking and to ensure the hash browns crisp up nicely.
2. Prepare the Hash Browns: If using frozen hash browns, make sure to thaw them in the fridge beforehand, or defrost them in the microwave. Once thawed, spread the hash browns evenly across the bottom of the greased baking dish, pressing them down lightly to form an even layer.
3. Bake the Hash Browns: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the hash browns are golden and crispy. This step ensures that the hash browns maintain their texture while baking with the other ingredients.

SECOND STEP: MIX THE EGG AND CHEESE FILLING

1. Whisk the Eggs: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, parsley, salt, and black pepper. Make sure everything is well combined, and the eggs are fully beaten.
2. Add Cheese: Stir in the shredded cheese of your choice. Cheese adds creaminess and flavor to the casserole, making it rich and indulgent. If you’re adding any optional ingredients like cooked chicken, bell peppers, or spinach, now is the time to mix them into the egg mixture.
3. Adjust Seasonings: Taste the egg mixture and adjust the seasonings if necessary. If you like more savory flavors, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or a splash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.

THIRD STEP: ASSEMBLE THE CASSEROLE

1. Combine the Layers: Once the hash brown layer is golden and crispy, remove it from the oven. Pour the egg and cheese mixture evenly over the top of the hash browns. Use a spatula to spread it out, making sure the egg mixture covers all of the hash browns.
2. Add More Cheese: If you like your casserole extra cheesy, sprinkle additional cheese on top of the egg mixture. This will melt and form a golden, bubbly crust as the casserole bakes.

FOURTH STEP: BAKE THE CASSEROLE

1. Bake the Casserole: Return the casserole to the oven and bake at 375°F (190°C) for an additional 30-35 minutes. The eggs should be set and lightly golden on top. You can check for doneness by inserting a knife into the center—if it comes out clean, the casserole is ready.
2. Cool Slightly: Once the casserole is done, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool for about 5-10 minutes. This will make it easier to slice and serve.

FINAL STEP: SERVE AND GARNISH

1. Garnish: For a finishing touch, sprinkle fresh chopped herbs like parsley, chives, or cilantro over the top of the casserole. This adds a burst of color and a fresh flavor that complements the richness of the dish.
2. Serve: Slice the casserole into squares and serve warm. You can also offer a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on the side for a cool contrast.