Mornings are bustling, and finding a breakfast dish that satisfies the whole family without keeping you in the kitchen all morning can be a challenge. This Easy Sausage Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole Recipe is the solution you have been looking for. It is a hearty, all-in-one meal that combines the savory goodness of breakfast sausage, the comfort of crispy hash browns, and the richness of cheesy eggs. It is the perfect start to a busy school day, a lazy weekend, or a holiday brunch.
This casserole is designed for convenience. It uses frozen hash browns to save on prep time and can be assembled quickly. The result is a golden, bubbling bake that fills the house with a mouthwatering aroma. It is packed with protein to keep you energized and is versatile enough to accept any extra veggies you might want to sneak in.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The Ultimate Comfort Food
There is something deeply satisfying about the combination of potatoes, meat, and cheese. This casserole delivers that classic diner breakfast flavor in a warm, scoopable format. It is hearty, filling, and undeniably delicious.
Perfect for Leftovers
This dish reheats beautifully. You can make a large batch on Sunday and enjoy warm, homemade breakfast slices for the next few days. If you are looking for sweet breakfast options to pair with this savory bake, try these Superfood Breakfast Cookies for a balanced morning spread.
Ingredients
- 1 package frozen shredded hash browns (30oz), thawed
- 1 lb breakfast sausage
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Brown the breakfast sausage in a skillet; drain fat.
- Spread thawed hash browns in the bottom of the dish.
- Top with cooked sausage and shredded cheese.
- Whisk eggs, milk, and spices together. Pour over the casserole.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes until set and golden brown.
- Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Nutrition
Ingredient Highlights & Substitutions
Essential Ingredients
Frozen shredded hash browns (thawed) form the crust and base of the casserole. Breakfast sausage (pork or turkey) provides the main flavor profile. Large eggs and milk create the fluffy custard that binds it all together. Cheddar cheese adds the necessary gooey factor, while onion powder and garlic powder season the mix perfectly.
Smart Substitutions
For a spicy kick, swap the regular sausage for hot Italian sausage or chorizo. You can substitute the shredded hash browns with tater tots for a different texture. If you want to make it lighter, use egg whites and turkey sausage. Pepper Jack cheese is a great alternative if you want to add some heat to the cheesy layer.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prep Phase
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish generously with butter or cooking spray. Thaw your hash browns if they are frozen solid, as this helps them cook evenly. Brown the breakfast sausage in a skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks. Drain the excess fat.
Cooking Phase
Spread the thawed hash browns in an even layer at the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Top the potatoes with the cooked, crumbled sausage. Sprinkle the shredded cheese generously over the meat. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder until frothy. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the casserole. Bake uncovered for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the center is set and the edges are golden brown. Let it cool for 10 minutes before slicing.
Pro Tips for Perfect Results
Technique Secrets
To prevent a soggy bottom, make sure your hash browns are not soaking wet. If they have a lot of moisture after thawing, squeeze them dry with a paper towel. Also, letting the casserole rest after baking is crucial. It allows the egg custard to firm up so you can cut clean squares instead of serving a messy pile.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Don’t skimp on the salt and pepper in the egg mixture. Potatoes and eggs are naturally bland and need that seasoning to shine. Also, avoid overbaking; if the edges are getting too brown but the center is still jiggly, cover the dish loosely with foil for the last 10 minutes.
Serving Ideas & Pairings
Presentation & Plating
Serve warm squares garnished with chopped fresh chives or scallions for a pop of color. A side of salsa or hot sauce is a fantastic addition for those who like it spicy.
Pairing Suggestions
Since this is a heavy, savory dish, pair it with fresh fruit like melon or berries to cut through the richness. A glass of orange juice or hot coffee complements the flavors perfectly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1? Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the entire casserole the night before, cover it, and refrigerate it. In the morning, just pop it in the oven (you may need to add 10-15 minutes to the baking time if it’s cold).
Q2? Can I freeze it?
Absolutely. Bake it, let it cool completely, slice it, and freeze individual portions in airtight containers for a quick microwave breakfast.
Q3? Can I add vegetables?
Yes, sautéed bell peppers, onions, spinach, or mushrooms make great additions. Add them to the sausage layer.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 380 kcal |
| Total Fat | 24g |
| Saturated Fat | 10g |
| Cholesterol | 185mg |
| Sodium | 750mg |
| Carbohydrates | 20g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2g |
| Protein | 18g |
Conclusion
The Easy Sausage Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole Recipe is a reliable, delicious staple that belongs in every home cook’s rotation. It delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort, making your mornings smoother and tastier.
