If you’re on the hunt for a hearty, crowd-pleasing morning meal, this Sausage Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole Recipe is about to become your new best friend. It’s a deliciously cheesy, savory dish packed with flavorful sausage and crispy hash browns, all baked together into a golden, bubbly casserole that fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas. Perfect for weekends, special occasions, or any time you want breakfast that feels like a celebration, this casserole is simple to assemble but rich in taste and texture that everyone will love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this Sausage Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole Recipe, you only need a handful of straightforward ingredients, each thoughtfully chosen to build layers of flavor and texture. From the savory sausage to the creamy eggs and sharp cheddar, every element plays a vital role in creating a balanced and satisfying dish.
- Breakfast sausage (1 pound): Adds a juicy, flavorful base with a touch of spice that anchors the casserole.
- Frozen hash browns (20 oz, thawed): The crispy, tender potatoes provide a comforting, hearty texture that absorbs all those savory flavors.
- Large eggs (8): They bind everything together and create a fluffy, custardy filling.
- Milk (1 cup): Keeps the eggs creamy and light, ensuring the casserole is not dry or dense.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1 ½ cups): Brings a rich, melty, tangy layer that browns beautifully on top.
- Salt (½ teaspoon): Enhances every ingredient, balancing and brightening the savory flavors.
- Black pepper (¼ teaspoon): Adds a gentle peppery kick to wake up your palate.
- Garlic powder (½ teaspoon): Introduces a warm, aromatic depth without overpowering the dish.
- Onion powder (½ teaspoon): Provides subtle sweetness and complexity that complements the sausage perfectly.
- Optional add-ins like bell peppers, spinach, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes: Easily personalize your casserole with extra veggies or a smoky and spicy twist.
How to Make Sausage Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan
Start by heating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter. This step ensures your casserole won’t stick and will come out of the pan effortlessly after baking.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage
Warm a large skillet over medium heat, then add your breakfast sausage. Break it apart gently as it cooks until it’s fully browned and no longer pink, which usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes. Once cooked, drain any excess grease—this keeps your casserole from becoming too oily but still flavorful.
Step 3: Layer the Hash Browns
Evenly spread your thawed hash browns in the prepared baking dish. For an extra crispy casserole, you can sauté the hash browns lightly before layering, adding a lovely golden crust that will delight your taste buds with every bite.
Step 4: Add the Sausage
Sprinkle the cooked sausage evenly over the hash browns, distributing the savory meat throughout so every slice is packed with flavor.
Step 5: Mix and Pour the Egg Mixture
In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder until smooth. Pour this luscious mixture evenly over the sausage and hash browns, allowing it to soak into every nook and cranny.
Step 6: Top with Cheese and Bake
Generously sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top. Place your casserole in the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, until the eggs are fully set and the cheese turns a beautiful shade of golden brown, signaling it’s ready to come out.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes after baking. This brief cooling period helps it firm up slightly, making it easier to slice and enjoy with all those delicious layers intact.
How to Serve Sausage Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Topping your casserole with fresh garnishes like chopped green onions, a sprinkle of fresh parsley, or a dollop of sour cream adds color and brightness to each serving, balancing the richness of the sausage and cheese. Even a few cherry tomatoes on the side add a juicy pop of freshness.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad of mixed greens or a bowl of fresh fruit to add natural sweetness and lighten up the meal. Crispy bacon or breakfast sausages on the side can elevate this dish into a full-on classic brunch sensation.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re serving a crowd, turn the casserole into a buffet-style spread with bowls of salsa, avocado slices, or hot sauce so everyone can customize their plates. For a festive twist, try baking it in individual ramekins or muffin tins for perfectly portioned, grab-and-go servings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover any leftover casserole tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it refrigerated for up to 3 days. This dish reheats beautifully while maintaining its creamy texture and savory flavor.
Freezing
This Sausage Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole Recipe is freezer-friendly! Wrap it well in foil or place in an airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw it overnight in the fridge to make reheating a breeze.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. Microwaving works too for a quick fix, but the oven will keep the cheese melty and the casserole evenly heated.
FAQs
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?
Absolutely! If you shred your own potatoes, just be sure to squeeze out as much moisture as possible. This will help your casserole maintain a nice texture without becoming watery.
Is it possible to make this casserole vegetarian?
Yes! Simply swap the sausage for a plant-based alternative or load up on extra veggies like mushrooms, bell peppers, and spinach for a meat-free version that’s just as flavorful.
Can I prepare this casserole the night before?
Yes, you can assemble everything, cover it, and refrigerate overnight. When you’re ready in the morning, bake it fresh for a warm, delicious breakfast.
What kind of cheese works best?
Cheddar cheese is perfect for its sharpness and meltability, but feel free to experiment with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend for a slightly different flavor profile.
Can I add other spices or herbs?
Definitely! Adding herbs like thyme, rosemary, or a pinch of smoked paprika can give your casserole a unique twist. Just adjust quantities to your taste.
Final Thoughts
This Sausage Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole Recipe is truly a game-changer for any breakfast or brunch table—comforting, easy to make, and endlessly adaptable. Once you try it, you’ll see why it’s become a beloved favorite. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself and your loved ones to a slice of cozy, cheesy goodness. You won’t regret it!
