Sausage & Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole

Sausage & Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole is the perfect dish to start your day off right. This hearty and satisfying casserole combines savory sausage, crispy hash browns, and a blend of eggs and cheese for a meal that’s both comforting and delicious. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just preparing a special weekend breakfast for your family, this casserole is sure to be a hit. Easy to make and full of flavor, it’s an ideal dish to prepare in advance and enjoy throughout the week.

Why It’s Great

This casserole is a one-dish wonder, combining all the best breakfast elements into a single, convenient bake. The crispy hash browns provide a delightful contrast to the rich, savory sausage, while the eggs and cheese create a creamy, binding texture that brings everything together. It’s customizable, so you can add your favorite ingredients like vegetables or different types of cheese. Plus, it’s great for feeding a crowd, making it a go-to recipe for brunches, potlucks, or holiday mornings.

Recipe

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound breakfast sausage
  • 1 (30 oz) package frozen hash browns, thawed
  • 8 large eggs
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1/2 cup diced onion
  • 1/2 cup diced bell pepper (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (for garnish)

Directions:

  1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
  2. Cook the sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage until browned and fully cooked, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
  3. Combine ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed hash browns, cooked sausage, diced onion, and bell pepper. Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt.
  4. Prepare the egg mixture: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until well combined. Pour the egg mixture over the hash brown mixture, stirring until everything is evenly coated.
  5. Add cheese: Stir in 1 1/2 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese, reserving the remaining 1/2 cup for the top.
  6. Assemble the casserole: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese on top.
  7. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown.
  8. Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.

Storing and Preserving

Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply place individual servings in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or reheat the entire casserole in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15-20 minutes until warmed through. This casserole also freezes well; wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Common Mistakes and Troubleshooting

  1. Soggy hash browns: To avoid soggy hash browns, make sure they are fully thawed and drained of excess moisture before combining them with the other ingredients.
  2. Overcooked eggs: Keep an eye on the casserole during baking. Overcooked eggs can become rubbery, so remove the casserole from the oven as soon as the eggs are set.
  3. Uneven baking: If your casserole seems to be cooking unevenly, rotate the dish halfway through baking to ensure even heat distribution.

FAQs

  1. Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?
    Yes, you can grate fresh potatoes, but be sure to squeeze out as much moisture as possible before using them in the recipe.
  2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
    Absolutely! Prepare the casserole the night before, cover it with plastic wrap, and store it in the refrigerator. In the morning, bake it as directed.
  3. Can I substitute the sausage with another protein?
    Yes, you can use bacon, ham, or even a plant-based sausage for a different flavor profile.
  4. Is it possible to add vegetables to this casserole?
    Definitely! Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or tomatoes to the mix.
  5. How do I prevent the casserole from drying out?
    Ensure that you don’t overbake the casserole and that the egg mixture fully covers the hash browns and sausage to keep everything moist.

Conclusion

Sausage & Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole is a versatile and crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for any breakfast or brunch occasion. Its combination of savory sausage, crispy hash browns, and creamy eggs and cheese makes it a satisfying and delicious choice. Easy to prepare and reheat, it’s a great option for busy mornings or when you’re entertaining guests. With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, this casserole is sure to become a favorite in your breakfast rotation. Enjoy the simplicity and comfort of this delightful dish!