Oh boy, let me tell you about my love for this *sausage hashbrown breakfast casserole*! It’s one of those dishes that just wraps you in a warm hug, you know? Perfect for breakfast or brunch gatherings, it’s a hearty blend of savory sausage, crispy hashbrowns, fluffy eggs, and melted cheese that makes everyone feel cozy and satisfied. Whenever I make this, the kitchen fills up with the irresistible aroma of cooking sausage, and I can already see everyone getting excited! Trust me, whether it’s a lazy Sunday morning or a festive holiday brunch, this casserole is always a hit. It’s super easy to whip up and can be made ahead of time, which means less stress for you and more time to enjoy with family and friends. What could be better than that?
Ingredients for Sausage Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole
Alright, let’s gather everything we need for this delicious casserole! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 pound breakfast sausage: I love using a savory breakfast sausage, but feel free to choose spicy or mild according to your taste! Just make sure it’s crumbled and cooked before mixing it in.
- 1 bag (30 oz) frozen hashbrowns: These are perfect for a quick meal! No need to thaw them—just toss them straight into the mix! I usually grab the shredded kind for that crispy texture.
- 8 large eggs: Eggs are essential for binding everything together and giving that fluffy texture. You can whisk them up really well before adding them to the mix.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Cheddar is my go-to for that creamy, gooey goodness. I like to use sharp cheddar for a bit of a kick, but mild works just as well!
- 1 cup milk: This adds moisture and richness to the casserole. Whole milk is best for creaminess, but you can use whatever you have on hand.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Just a pinch to enhance all those delicious flavors. Adjust to your liking if you prefer it less salty!
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: For a little bit of spice. Feel free to add more if you like a bit of a kick!
Now that you have everything ready, you’re all set to create this mouthwatering breakfast dish! Let’s move on to how to put it all together.
How to Prepare Sausage Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole
Get ready to dive into the deliciousness! Making this casserole is super simple and really satisfying. Here’s how to do it step by step:
- Preheat your oven: First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is key to getting that golden, bubbly top!
- Cook the sausage: In a skillet over medium heat, cook your breakfast sausage until it’s nicely browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. This should take about 5-7 minutes. The aroma will have you dreaming about breakfast already!
- Mix the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked sausage, frozen hashbrowns, eggs, milk, salt, and pepper. Give it a good stir to make sure everything’s evenly mixed. You want every bite to be packed with flavor!
- Add the cheese: Now, stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. This will add that creamy, cheesy goodness we all love!
- Pour into baking dish: Take a greased 9×13 inch baking dish and pour the mixture in, spreading it out evenly. Make sure it’s all nice and level!
- Top with cheese: Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top. This is where the magic happens—who doesn’t love melted cheese?
- Bake it: Pop it in the oven and let it bake for 45-50 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the center is set and the cheese is bubbly and golden. Keep an eye on it towards the end, just to make sure it doesn’t overcook!
Once it’s out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. This helps everything set up nicely. You’re in for a treat!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk about the nutritional side of this delicious sausage hashbrown breakfast casserole! Please keep in mind that the nutrition values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so these are just typical estimates per serving:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 1g
- Protein: 15g
With its hearty ingredients, this casserole packs a punch when it comes to protein and flavor! Just remember to enjoy it in moderation, especially if you’re keeping an eye on those calories. Now, are you ready to dive into the next delicious part of this recipe?
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip this up in no time—perfect for busy mornings or last-minute brunch plans!
- Hearty and satisfying: This casserole is loaded with all the good stuff—sausage, eggs, and cheese—making it a filling meal that keeps you energized throughout the day.
- Feed a crowd: It serves 8 generous portions, making it ideal for family gatherings or potlucks. Everyone will leave the table happy and full!
- Make-ahead friendly: You can prep it the night before and pop it in the oven in the morning. Less stress and more time to enjoy your guests!
- Customizable: Feel free to switch up the ingredients—add veggies, try different cheeses, or even swap the sausage for bacon or turkey for a twist!
- Comfort food at its best: There’s something so comforting about a warm, cheesy casserole that brings everyone together, making it perfect for any occasion.
Tips for Success
Let’s make sure your sausage hashbrown breakfast casserole turns out absolutely perfect! Here are my top tips to avoid any hiccups and ensure everyone raves about it:
- Don’t skip the pre-cooking: Make sure to cook the sausage until it’s nicely browned before adding it to the mixture. This step not only enhances the flavor but also ensures that the casserole cooks evenly.
- Keep it frozen: There’s no need to thaw the hashbrowns! Just throw them in frozen. This helps maintain that lovely texture and prevents the casserole from becoming too soggy.
- Mix gently: When combining the ingredients, be careful not to overmix. You want everything to be incorporated without breaking down the hashbrowns too much—some chunks are perfectly fine!
- Check for doneness: Keep an eye on your casserole towards the end of the baking time. If the edges start to brown too quickly, you can cover it loosely with foil to prevent burning while the center finishes cooking.
- Let it rest: After baking, resist the urge to dive right in! Letting it cool for about 5-10 minutes helps the casserole set up, making it easier to slice and serve.
- Experiment with flavors: If you want to spice things up, consider adding some chopped bell peppers, onions, or even a hint of hot sauce to the mixture for an extra flavor kick!
- Adjust the cheese: Feel free to mix different types of cheese! A blend of cheddar and pepper jack can add a delicious twist to your casserole.
With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be well on your way to creating a breakfast casserole that everyone will love. Happy cooking!
Variations
Now, let’s have some fun with this sausage hashbrown breakfast casserole! One of the best things about it is how easily it adapts to your flavor cravings. Here are some creative ways to switch it up:
- Meat options: Swap out the breakfast sausage for crispy bacon or diced ham for a different flavor profile. You could even use turkey sausage for a leaner option!
- Veggie-packed: Add in your favorite veggies! Chopped bell peppers, spinach, or onions can bring a fresh crunch and vibrant color to your casserole. Just sauté them a bit before mixing in.
- Spice it up: If you love a little heat, try adding diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the mixture. It’ll give your casserole a nice kick!
- Cheesy goodness: Mix in different cheeses like pepper jack for some spice, or go for a blend of mozzarella and parmesan for a cheesy twist. The possibilities are endless!
- Herbs and seasonings: Fresh herbs like chives or parsley can brighten up the dish. You could also experiment with seasonings like garlic powder or Italian seasoning for added depth.
- Breakfast burrito style: For a fun twist, consider adding black beans and corn, then topping it with salsa and avocado after baking. It’s like breakfast in a burrito form!
With these variations, you can make this casserole uniquely yours every time! Whether you’re in the mood for something classic or a little adventurous, there’s a version here for you. Enjoy experimenting!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Got leftovers? No worries! This sausage hashbrown breakfast casserole stores beautifully, making it a fantastic option for meal prep. Here’s how to keep it fresh and reheat it like a pro:
- Storing leftovers: Allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze portions in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: To reheat, simply preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). If it’s frozen, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight first. Then, cover the casserole with foil to prevent it from drying out and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. If you’re reheating individual slices, you can pop them in the microwave for a quick fix—just a minute or two should do it!
- Enjoying the leftovers: I love serving reheated slices with a fresh side of fruit or a dollop of salsa for a little extra flavor. It’s just as delicious as when it first came out of the oven!
With these simple storage and reheating tips, you can savor the comforting taste of this casserole all week long. Enjoy every last bite!
FAQ Section
Got questions? I’ve got answers! Here are some of the most common queries I get about this sausage hashbrown breakfast casserole, and I’m here to help you through them:
Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of breakfast sausage, you can easily swap it out for crispy bacon, diced ham, or even turkey sausage for a leaner option. Just make sure whatever you use is cooked before mixing it in!
Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
Yes! Just omit the sausage and load it up with your favorite veggies. Bell peppers, spinach, and mushrooms are all fantastic additions. You might also want to throw in some beans for added protein!
What if I don’t have frozen hashbrowns?
No problem! You can shred fresh potatoes, but be sure to par-cook them a bit in boiling water beforehand to ensure they’re tender in the casserole. Alternatively, you can use tater tots for a fun twist!
Can I prepare this the night before?
Definitely! This casserole is perfect for make-ahead meals. Just assemble it the night before, cover it tightly, and pop it in the refrigerator. In the morning, you can bake it straight from the fridge—just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
How do I know when it’s done baking?
You’ll know it’s ready when the center is set and the cheese on top is bubbly and golden. If you poke it with a knife or toothpick, it should come out clean from the center. Keep an eye on those edges too—if they brown too quickly, cover them with foil!
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes! This casserole freezes wonderfully. Just make sure it’s fully cooled before cutting it into portions and wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap or placing them in freezer-safe containers. It’ll last up to 2 months in the freezer!
What are some good toppings or sides?
I love serving this casserole with a side of fresh fruit, a dollop of salsa, or even a sprinkle of chopped green onions for a pop of color. You could also pair it with a simple green salad for a nice balance!
Feel free to reach out if you have more questions or if you’re ready to dive into making this delicious breakfast dish. Happy cooking!
Print
Sausage Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole for a Cozy Morning
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Sausage hashbrown breakfast casserole is a hearty dish perfect for breakfast or brunch. It combines sausage, hashbrowns, eggs, and cheese for a filling meal.
Ingredients
- 1 pound breakfast sausage
- 1 bag (30 oz) frozen hashbrowns
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the breakfast sausage in a skillet over medium heat until browned.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked sausage, hashbrowns, eggs, milk, salt, and pepper.
- Stir in 1 cup of cheddar cheese.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Top with remaining cheese.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes or until set.
Notes
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
Keywords: sausage hashbrown breakfast casserole
