If you are craving a hearty, comforting dish that brings together the best flavors of a classic breakfast, you have to try this Cheesy Sausage Hashbrown Casserole Recipe. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with savory sausage and crispy hash browns that meld perfectly in every bite. Whether you’re feeding a crowd for brunch or want a satisfying meal any time of day, this casserole brings warmth, richness, and a nostalgic feel that feels like a big, tasty hug on a plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, trusty ingredients is the key to making this casserole shine. Each component plays an essential role, layering flavors and textures to create that luscious, crowd-pleasing dish everyone will rave about.
- Ground breakfast sausage: Provides bold, savory flavor and a satisfying meaty texture that is the star protein of this recipe.
- Frozen shredded hash browns: These deliver the perfect crispy-yet-tender base, soaking up all the creamy, cheesy goodness.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Brings richness and a melty, gooey quality that ties the whole casserole together beautifully.
- Diced onion: Adds a mild bite and aromatic sweetness that complements the sausage perfectly.
- Sour cream: Makes the casserole irresistibly creamy and adds a subtle tangy depth.
- Cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup: Acts as the secret base that locks in moisture and flavor.
- Garlic powder: Gives a warm, gentle savory note without overpowering the other ingredients.
- Black pepper and salt: Simple seasonings that balance and enhance every element.
- Nonstick cooking spray: Ensures your casserole never sticks, making serving effortless.
How to Make Cheesy Sausage Hashbrown Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. This ensures even cooking and an easy cleanup, setting you up for a flawless baking experience.
Step 2: Brown the Sausage
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the ground breakfast sausage. Cook it thoroughly, breaking it into nice little crumbles as it browns. Once done, drain off any excess fat for a cleaner, less greasy casserole. This step builds the savory backbone of the dish and adds that hearty punch everyone loves.
Step 3: Mix All the Ingredients
In a spacious mixing bowl, combine the thawed hash browns, cooked sausage, shredded cheddar cheese, diced onion, sour cream, cream of mushroom or chicken soup, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until all ingredients are well incorporated. This mixture is the magic blend that will bake into a cozy, cheesy masterpiece.
Step 4: Transfer and Bake
Spread the combined mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish. Pop it into the oven and bake uncovered for 40 to 45 minutes, until the casserole is bubbling hot and the top is turning a gorgeous golden brown. Your kitchen will fill with mouthwatering aromas that signal a delicious meal is ready to enjoy.
Step 5: Let It Rest
Once baked, allow the casserole to rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving. This little waiting period helps everything settle beautifully, making it easier to cut and enjoy each cheesy, flavorful square.
How to Serve Cheesy Sausage Hashbrown Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Top your casserole with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color and brightness. A dollop of sour cream or a few slices of ripe avocado add creamy freshness that elevates each serving wonderfully.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs beautifully with a light green salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette to balance out the richness. For a heartier meal, steamed veggies or roasted asparagus add a lovely contrast in texture and nutrients.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve individual portions in ramekins or mini cast-iron skillets straight from the oven. Layer it with a bit of extra cheese on top before baking for a bubbly, golden crust that’s irresistible. You can also jazz it up by stirring in colorful diced bell peppers for a festive touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate. Your Cheesy Sausage Hashbrown Casserole Recipe stays delicious for up to 3 days, making it a perfect make-ahead meal for busy mornings or quick dinners.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, you can freeze this casserole either before or after baking. Use a freezer-safe container, and it will keep well for up to 2 months. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating
Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the whole casserole in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through and bubbly. Adding a sprinkle of extra cheese on top before reheating keeps it tasting fresh and melty.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Absolutely! While ground breakfast sausage gives the perfect flavor and texture, you can substitute with turkey sausage or even spicy Italian sausage if you want a bit of a kick. Just be mindful of seasoning adjustments.
Do I need to thaw the hash browns before using?
Yes, thawing the frozen shredded hash browns ensures even cooking and prevents excess water from making the casserole soggy. Simply leave them in the fridge overnight or thaw in the microwave before mixing.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Definitely. Substitute the sausage with sautéed mushrooms, diced bell peppers, or vegetarian sausage alternatives. The creaminess and cheese will still make it a comforting, hearty dish.
Is this casserole good for meal prepping?
Yes! The Cheesy Sausage Hashbrown Casserole Recipe is fantastic for meal prepping. Prepare it in advance, refrigerate, and bake when ready. It’s a time-saver for busy mornings or effortless gatherings.
What can I add to customize the flavor?
Feel free to add diced bell peppers, jalapeños, or your favorite herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra flavor. Topping with extra cheese or breadcrumbs before baking also adds a delicious crusty texture.
Final Thoughts
There is something so comforting about a warm, cheesy casserole packed with sausage and tender hash browns that makes this Cheesy Sausage Hashbrown Casserole Recipe an instant favorite in any household. Its simplicity, rich flavors, and versatility make it perfect for any time you crave a cozy and satisfying meal. I truly hope you give it a try and watch it become a beloved go-to dish in your recipe collection!
Print
Cheesy Sausage Hashbrown Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Kid-Friendly
Description
A comforting and cheesy breakfast casserole featuring savory ground breakfast sausage, crispy hash browns, and melted cheddar cheese, baked to golden perfection. Perfect for make-ahead brunches or hearty morning meals.
Ingredients
Sausage Mixture
- 1 pound ground breakfast sausage
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Casserole Base
- 1 (30 oz) bag frozen shredded hash browns, thawed
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup
Other
- Nonstick cooking spray
Instructions
- Preheat oven and prepare dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Cook the sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground breakfast sausage until it is browned and fully cooked. Break it apart into crumbles while cooking. Once done, drain any excess fat and set the cooked sausage aside to cool slightly.
- Mix casserole ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed shredded hash browns, cooked sausage, shredded cheddar cheese, diced onion, sour cream, cream of mushroom or chicken soup, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are well mixed and evenly distributed.
- Assemble the casserole: Spread the combined mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, smoothing the top to create an even layer.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly throughout and the top has turned a light golden brown.
- Rest and serve: After removing the casserole from the oven, let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving. This helps the casserole set and makes it easier to cut and serve.
Notes
- For extra flavor and color, stir in diced bell peppers before baking or sprinkle additional cheese on top.
- This casserole works great as a breakfast, brunch, or even a casual dinner option.
- You can prepare this casserole ahead of time and refrigerate overnight; simply bake it fresh when ready to serve.
