If you are on the lookout for a comforting, hearty breakfast that everyone will rave about, this Sausage Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a deliciously cheesy, savory blend of spicy sausage, crispy hash browns, and fluffy eggs that come together in one easy casserole. Every bite bursts with flavor and warmth, making it perfect for weekend brunches or a special holiday morning. Plus, it’s incredibly straightforward to prepare, so you can spend more time enjoying your meal and less time in the kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple yet essential for achieving the perfect balance of flavors and textures in your Sausage Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole Recipe. From the spicy sausage to the fluffy eggs and melted cheddar, each item plays a crucial role in making this dish both savory and satisfying.
- Hot breakfast sausage (2 lb): Provides a spicy, rich foundation with plenty of hearty flavor.
- Frozen shredded hash browns (30-32 oz): Adds a crispy, golden texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy egg mixture.
- Salt (1 tsp): Enhances every flavor in the dish, tying everything together perfectly.
- Pepper (1/2 tsp): Adds a subtle kick to balance the richness of the sausage and cheese.
- Garlic powder (1/4 tsp): Brings a gentle, aromatic depth that complements the savory ingredients.
- Onion powder (1/4 tsp): Amplifies the overall flavor without overwhelming the other components.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (2 cups): Melts to create a gooey, golden topper that makes the casserole irresistible.
- Eggs (8): Provide structure and a soft, custardy texture to bind everything together.
- Milk (2 cups): Keeps the eggs light and tender while adding a little creaminess.
How to Make Sausage Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350ºF and lightly spraying a 9×13-inch baking pan with cooking spray. This small step ensures your casserole will bake evenly and won’t stick to the pan, making cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage
In a large skillet, cook the hot breakfast sausage over medium heat until it is no longer pink, breaking it up as it cooks. Once done, drain the fat thoroughly to keep your casserole from turning greasy. This step locks in the spicy, savory flavor that forms the heart of the dish without any unwanted oiliness.
Step 3: Brown the Hash Browns
Using the same skillet, add the frozen shredded hash browns. Cook them until they develop a light golden brown color, stirring occasionally. If your pan is dry, add a splash of oil to help crisp them up. This process transforms the hash browns from frozen starch to a deliciously crispy layer at the bottom of your casserole.
Step 4: Assemble Layers
Spread the browned hash browns evenly in the bottom of your prepared pan. Next, sprinkle the cooked sausage evenly over the hash browns, followed by the generous layer of shredded cheddar cheese. This layering ensures that every bite has a perfect ratio of textures and flavors.
Step 5: Mix and Pour Egg Mixture
In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and milk until smooth. Pour this creamy mixture over your hash brown, sausage, and cheese layers. The eggs soak into the other ingredients, binding everything together into a fluffy, satisfying casserole.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place your casserole in the preheated oven, uncovered, and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. The top should be set and golden, with the cheese melted into a luscious blanket. If you want to prepare ahead, you can cover and refrigerate the casserole at this point before baking later without sacrificing any flavor or texture.
How to Serve Sausage Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
To add a fresh burst, consider topping your casserole with chopped green onions, a sprinkle of fresh parsley, or even some diced tomatoes. These garnishes brighten the dish and add that pop of color that makes this savory breakfast even more inviting.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs wonderfully with simple sides like fresh fruit salad, a crisp green salad, or warm buttered toast. A light side helps balance the richness of the casserole, creating a well-rounded meal that satisfies without feeling heavy.
Creative Ways to Present
For a brunch party, serve the casserole in individual ramekins for a personal touch, or garnish each serving with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of paprika. You can even add a drizzle of hot sauce for those who like an extra kick. Presentation makes the experience feel special and memorable.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store your leftover sausage hash brown breakfast casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3-4 days, giving you ready-made breakfast or snacks that heat up beautifully.
Freezing
This casserole freezes wonderfully. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe container. It will stay fresh for up to 2 months, making it perfect for meal prepping or to enjoy later without any loss of flavor or texture.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350ºF until warmed through, usually about 15-20 minutes. For a quicker option, microwave individual servings until hot, but the oven will help maintain that delightful crispy top and melty cheese texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Absolutely! While hot breakfast sausage adds a nice spicy kick, you can use mild sausage or even turkey sausage if you prefer a milder flavor or a leaner option.
Is it necessary to brown the hash browns first?
Browning the hash browns adds a wonderful crispy texture and richer flavor that really elevates the casserole. If you skip this step, your dish may be a bit softer but still tasty.
Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
Yes! Simply substitute the sausage with sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, peppers, and onions, or use a plant-based sausage alternative to keep it meat-free without sacrificing flavor.
How do I know when the casserole is fully cooked?
The casserole should be set in the center and slightly golden on top. If you insert a knife into the middle, it should come out clean. Baking for 35-40 minutes generally ensures it’s perfectly cooked throughout.
Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?
Definitely! You can either use a larger baking dish or prepare two 9×13-inch pans. Just keep an eye on baking time as it may vary slightly depending on the size and oven.
Final Thoughts
This Sausage Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole Recipe has become one of my all-time favorite breakfasts to share with friends and family. It’s simple to prepare, packed with flavor, and perfect for feeding a crowd or prepping ahead. Give it a try and watch it become a beloved staple in your brunch rotation—you won’t regret it!
Print
Sausage Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A hearty and flavorful Sausage Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole perfect for a satisfying morning meal. This recipe combines savory breakfast sausage, crispy hash browns, melted cheddar cheese, and a seasoned egg custard baked to perfection, making it an ideal dish for family breakfasts or brunch gatherings.
Ingredients
Sausage and Potatoes
- 2 lb hot breakfast sausage
- 1 (30-32 oz) bag frozen shredded hash browns
Seasonings
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
Dairy
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 8 eggs
- 2 cups milk
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350ºF. 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 breakfast sausage until it is no longer pink in the center. Drain excess fat and set the sausage aside.
- Cook Hash Browns: Using the same skillet, add the frozen shredded hash browns. Cook until they are lightly browned, adding a little oil if necessary to prevent sticking. Then transfer the hash browns to the bottom of the prepared 9×13-inch pan.
- Assemble Casserole Layers: Evenly spread the cooked sausage over the hash browns layer, followed by sprinkling the shredded cheddar cheese on top.
- Mix Egg Custard: In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and milk until well combined.
- Pour and Refrigerate: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layers in the baking dish. At this point, you may cover and refrigerate if you plan to bake it later.
- Bake: Bake the casserole uncovered in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the eggs are fully set and the top is slightly golden.
Notes
- You can prepare the casserole the night before by assembling it and refrigerating it before baking in the morning.
- If you prefer a milder flavor, use mild breakfast sausage instead of hot.
- To make cleanup easier, line the baking dish with parchment paper before spraying.
- For extra crispiness, broil the casserole for 1-2 minutes at the end of baking but watch carefully to avoid burning.
- Make sure the eggs are fully cooked and set before serving to ensure food safety.
