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
Scale
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.
