If you have ever dreamed of waking up to a warm, hearty, and utterly satisfying breakfast, this Sausage Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. Bursting with savory sausage, crispy hash browns, melty cheddar cheese, and a perfectly seasoned egg mixture, it’s a one-dish wonder that brings comfort and flavor together in the best way imaginable. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just want something make-ahead and delicious, this recipe hits every note for a joyous morning feast.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key, and the beauty of this casserole lies in its straightforward components. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, from the rich sausage providing boldness, the hash browns adding crispy texture, down to the creamy, seasoned egg mixture that ties everything together.
- 2 lb hot breakfast sausage: Choose your favorite quality sausage to give the dish its spicy, savory backbone.
- 1 (30-32oz) bag frozen shredded hash browns: The classic base with a crispy exterior and tender interior after baking.
- 1 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering.
- 1/2 tsp pepper: Adds a slight kick to balance out the richness.
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder: Infuses a subtle, aromatic depth.
- 1/4 tsp onion powder: Complements the garlic for a well-rounded seasoning.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into gooey pockets of cheesy goodness throughout the casserole.
- 8 eggs: The binder that holds everything firmly together with fluffy, rich texture.
- 2 cups milk: Makes the egg mixture creamy and smooth for a luscious finish.
How to Make Sausage Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350ºF. Lightly spray a 9×13-inch pan with cooking spray to prevent sticking and to ensure easy cleanup. This simple step sets the stage for your casserole to bake evenly and come out perfectly golden.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage
In a large skillet, cook the hot breakfast sausage over medium heat until it is no longer pink. This step is crucial because well-cooked sausage not only tastes better, but draining the fat afterward helps keep the casserole from becoming greasy. Set the sausage aside once done.
Step 3: Brown the Hash Browns
Using the same skillet, add your frozen shredded hash browns. Cook them until they are lightly browned to bring out a wonderful crispiness that contrasts beautifully with the softer egg mixture. If the pan looks dry, feel free to add a splash of oil to help the browning process along. Once ready, layer the browned hash browns evenly in the prepared pan.
Step 4: Layer Sausage and Cheese
Sprinkle the cooked sausage evenly over the hash browns. Next, generously top everything with the shredded cheddar cheese. This layering creates a beautiful medley of flavors in every forkful, with the cheese melting into pockets between the hearty ingredients.
Step 5: Mix and Pour the Egg Mixture
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and milk. This seasoned egg custard is the heart of the casserole, binding all the ingredients with a creamy texture and rich flavor. Pour it gently over the layered hash browns, sausage, and cheese.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
If you’re not baking immediately, cover the casserole and refrigerate it to let the flavors meld. When ready, bake the casserole uncovered for 35-40 minutes at 350ºF until the top is golden and the egg mixture is set. The aroma during baking will surely be hard to resist!
How to Serve Sausage Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Top your casserole with a sprinkle of fresh chives or green onions for a burst of color and fresh flavor. A dollop of sour cream or a few slices of ripe avocado can also add creaminess and balance the spiciness of the sausage beautifully. Simple garnishes take this dish to the next level without much effort.
Side Dishes
While this casserole shines on its own, pairing it with some light, fresh sides creates a well-rounded breakfast experience. Consider serving alongside a crisp green salad or a bowl of fresh fruit to add brightness. A warm slice of buttered toast or flaky biscuits are also perfect companions to mop up every delicious bite.
Creative Ways to Present
Make your Sausage Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole Recipe even more special by baking individual portions in muffin tins for easy grab-and-go breakfasts. You can also experiment with adding veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms between layers for added color and nutrition. Presentation can be casual or elegant, and it’s sure to impress every time.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover any leftovers tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. Your casserole will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, making it an excellent option for quick reheats during busy mornings.
Freezing
This sausage hash brown breakfast casserole recipe freezes beautifully! Wrap portions carefully in foil or plastic wrap, then place in freezer-safe bags or containers. It can be stored for up to 2 months without losing its delicious flavor or texture. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
For best results, reheat individual servings in the microwave for 1-2 minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat the entire casserole in a 350ºF oven covered with foil for 20-25 minutes. This helps maintain the crispy edges and creamy center that make this casserole so irresistible.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Absolutely! While hot breakfast sausage gives this dish a nice spicy kick, you can use mild sausage or even turkey sausage if you prefer. Just make sure to cook it fully and drain excess fat as you would with the original recipe.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute the sausage for a plant-based sausage or add in sautéed mushrooms and vegetables to keep that hearty flavor without meat. Be sure to adjust the seasonings to maintain richness and depth.
Can I prepare this casserole the night before?
Definitely. After combining all ingredients and pouring the egg mixture, cover the pan and refrigerate overnight. When ready, simply bake as directed for a convenient morning meal.
What cheese alternatives can I use?
Cheddar is classic, but feel free to experiment with Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even a sharp Swiss. Choose cheeses that melt well to keep that gooey texture throughout the casserole.
How do I know when the casserole is fully cooked?
The casserole is done when the center is set and no longer jiggles when you gently shake the pan. The top should be golden and the edges slightly crispy. Using a toothpick inserted in the center that comes out clean is also a good test.
Final Thoughts
This Sausage Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole Recipe is a total game-changer for breakfast or brunch. It’s easy to prepare, wonderfully flavorful, and perfect for sharing with family or friends. Once you make it, you’ll see why it quickly becomes a beloved staple. Trust me, your mornings will never be the same—give it a try and enjoy every delicious bite!
Print
Sausage Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
- Total Time: 45-50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Breakfast Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A hearty and delicious Sausage Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole perfect for a filling breakfast or brunch. This casserole combines savory hot breakfast sausage, crispy hash browns, and melted cheddar cheese, all bound together with a seasoned egg and milk mixture. Easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time, it serves as a crowd-pleaser for family and guests.
Ingredients
Sausage and Hash Browns
- 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
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Egg Mixture
- 8 eggs
- 2 cups milk
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan: Preheat your oven to 350ºF. Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking pan with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Cook the 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 done, drain off any excess fat and set the sausage aside.
- Brown the Hash Browns: Using the same skillet, add the frozen shredded hash browns. Cook them until they are lightly browned, stirring occasionally. Add a small amount of oil if needed to prevent sticking. Once browned, spread the hash browns evenly in the bottom of the prepared 9×13-inch pan.
- Assemble the Casserole: Layer the cooked sausage evenly over the hash browns, then sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top of the sausage layer.
- Prepare the Egg Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and milk until thoroughly combined.
- Pour Egg Mixture and Refrigerate if Needed: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layers in the casserole dish. At this point, you can cover and refrigerate the casserole if you plan to bake it later.
- Bake the Casserole: Bake the casserole uncovered in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is lightly golden. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
Notes
- This casserole can be made the night before and baked fresh in the morning for convenience.
- Use turkey sausage or a different type of cheese to modify the flavor and nutritional profile.
- If hash browns stick to the pan, adding a little oil during cooking will help prevent this issue.
- Make sure the eggs are fully cooked before serving to ensure food safety.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated.
