If you are on the lookout for a comforting, hearty breakfast that fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas, then this Sausage Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole Recipe is your new best friend. It perfectly combines savory breakfast sausage, crispy golden hash browns, and gooey melted cheddar cheese all tied together with a seasoned egg custard. Whether you’re feeding family on a lazy weekend or hosting a brunch gathering, this casserole offers a timeless combination of flavors and textures that are sure to impress and satisfy every breakfast lover at your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
From rich, savory sausage to tender hash browns, each ingredient in this recipe plays an essential role in creating a symphony of flavor and mouthwatering texture. Easy to find and simple to prepare, these ingredients come together effortlessly to make a dish you’ll want again and again.
- 2 lb hot breakfast sausage: Provides the main savory, spicy flavor and a juicy bite that makes the casserole irresistible.
- 1 (30-32oz) bag frozen shredded hash browns: Adds a crispy, satisfying base with a comforting starchy texture that complements the sausage perfectly.
- 1 tsp salt: Enhances overall seasoning and balances the flavors beautifully.
- 1/2 tsp pepper: Provides just the right hint of sharpness to elevate the dish without overwhelming it.
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder: Brings a savory depth and warmth to the egg custard that ties the casserole together.
- 1/4 tsp onion powder: Adds a subtle sweetness and complexity that plays well with the sausage and cheese.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Creates a luscious, melty, cheesy layer that binds everything and brings rich flavor.
- 8 eggs: The protein-packed base of the custard that holds the casserole together and keeps it light yet substantial.
- 2 cups milk: Smoothens the egg mixture and helps create a soft, creamy custard texture.
How to Make Sausage Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350ºF to ensure it’s ready to bake the casserole evenly. Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking pan with cooking spray to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier—this simple step sets the stage for a perfect casserole.
Step 2: Brown the Sausage
In a large skillet, cook the hot breakfast sausage over medium heat until no longer pink, breaking it apart as it cooks. This browning step not only cooks the sausage through but also develops those deep, savory flavors you want in every bite. Drain the excess fat and set the sausage aside; this keeps the casserole from becoming greasy while preserving that delicious flavor.
Step 3: Cook the Hash Browns
Using the same skillet, add the frozen shredded hash browns and cook until they turn lightly golden brown, adding a touch of oil if the pan seems dry. This step is crucial because it starts the crisping process, giving the casserole some lovely texture contrast rather than soggy potatoes. Once browned, spread the hash browns evenly at the bottom of your prepared baking pan.
Step 4: Layer the Sausage and Cheese
Sprinkle the cooked sausage evenly over the layer of hash browns, then top with the shredded cheddar cheese. This layering ensures every forkful has a bit of sausage, potato, and cheese, creating the perfect blend of flavors.
Step 5: Mix and Pour the Egg Mixture
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and milk until smooth and combined. Pour this savory custard gently over the layered hash browns, sausage, and cheese, allowing it to seep into every corner for a wonderfully cohesive casserole.
Step 6: Bake the Casserole
Bake the casserole uncovered in your preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes until the top is set, golden, and slightly puffed. If you want to bake it later, you can cover and refrigerate at this point—the flavors will even deepen overnight!
How to Serve Sausage Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
To add a fresh and bright touch, top individual portions with chopped green onions or freshly diced tomatoes. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives can elevate the flavors and add lovely color, making the dish look as delightful as it tastes.
Side Dishes
This casserole is a meal all on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or fresh fruit can provide a refreshing balance to its richness. Consider serving with seasonal berries or a citrus fruit salad to brighten the palate and complement the hearty casserole.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive brunch, serve the casserole in individual ramekins or muffin tins for easy, fun single servings. You can also sprinkle a bit of extra cheese or cooked bacon bits on top right before baking to create an extra-special presentation that your guests will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your delicious Sausage Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole Recipe, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps the casserole fresh so you can enjoy it again without losing any of the flavors or textures that make it special.
Freezing
This casserole freezes beautifully, making it a perfect dish to prepare ahead. Wrap tightly with foil or place in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for 1 to 2 minutes until warm or heat the entire casserole in the oven at 350ºF covered with foil for about 20 minutes. This ensures the casserole stays moist and delicious, as if it were freshly baked.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of sausage in this Sausage Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole Recipe?
Absolutely! Mild sausage works well if you prefer less heat, and you can even try turkey or chicken sausage for a leaner option. Just cook it thoroughly before layering as directed.
Is it okay to use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?
You can use fresh shredded potatoes—just be sure to squeeze out excess moisture and sauté them until lightly browned before layering. This will help avoid a soggy casserole.
Can I prepare this casserole vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute the sausage with sautéed veggies like mushrooms, peppers, and onions, or use a vegan sausage. The rest of the recipe remains the same and still provides fantastic flavor.
How do I know when the casserole is fully cooked?
It should be golden brown and set in the center, with no liquid egg remaining. If you’re unsure, inserting a knife or toothpick into the center should come out clean.
Can I add other cheeses or mix cheeses in the recipe?
Definitely! While cheddar is classic, feel free to combine it with mozzarella, pepper jack, or even a sharp white cheddar to add layers of flavor and creaminess.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly comforting about a warm, cheesy, savory breakfast casserole to start your day, and this Sausage Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole Recipe checks all the boxes. Easy to make, incredibly flavorful, and perfect for sharing, it’s a recipe that deserves a spot in your regular rotation. Trust me, once you’ve tried it, you’ll want to make it again and again for family, friends, or whenever you just need a little breakfast happiness in your life.
Print
Sausage Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Breakfast Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A hearty and delicious Sausage Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole perfect for a nutritious morning meal or brunch. This casserole combines savory hot breakfast sausage, crispy hash browns, and melted cheddar cheese all bound together with a flavorful egg and milk mixture, baked to golden perfection.
Ingredients
Sausage and Potatoes
- 2 lb hot breakfast sausage
- 1 (30-32 oz) bag frozen shredded hash browns
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
Dairy and Eggs
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 8 eggs
- 2 cups milk
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC) and lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking pan with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Cook Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the hot breakfast sausage until it is no longer pink, breaking it up as it cooks. Once cooked, drain excess fat and set the sausage aside.
- Cook Hash Browns: In the same skillet, add the frozen shredded hash browns and cook until they turn lightly brown and crispy. Add a small amount of oil if necessary to prevent sticking and to help with browning. Once cooked, spread the hash browns evenly in the bottom of the prepared 9×13-inch pan.
- Layer Sausage and Cheese: Evenly distribute the cooked sausage over the hash browns, then sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top.
- Mix and Pour Egg Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and milk until fully combined. Pour this mixture evenly over the layered hash browns, sausage, and cheese in the pan.
- Optional Refrigeration: Cover the casserole and refrigerate if you plan to bake it later. This step allows flavors to meld and offers flexibility in timing.
- Bake: Bake the casserole uncovered in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown. Remove from oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute the hot breakfast sausage with mild sausage if you prefer less heat.
- Adding a little oil when cooking hash browns prevents sticking and enhances crispiness.
- This casserole can be assembled the night before and baked fresh in the morning for convenience.
- Ensure the eggs are fully cooked by baking until the center is set to avoid runniness.
- Feel free to add diced onions, bell peppers, or herbs for extra flavor.
