This Easy Sausage Hash Brown Casserole is the definition of a hearty breakfast. It is a savory, cheesy, crowd-pleasing dish that combines all your breakfast favorites—sausage, potatoes, eggs, and cheese—into one pan. It is amazing because it requires minimal prep but delivers maximum flavor.
Perfect for meal prep, this casserole reheats beautifully throughout the week. The hash browns provide a satisfying carb base, while the sausage adds protein and spice. The egg custard binds it all together into a sliceable, comforting meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Make-Ahead Magic
Assemble it the night before and bake it in the morning. The flavors meld together overnight, making it even tastier.
Customizable
It is a blank canvas. Add peppers, onions, spinach, or bacon to suit your taste. It creates a complete meal in one slice.
Ingredients
- 1 lb breakfast sausage
- 30 oz frozen hash browns, thawed
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
Instructions
- Brown sausage and drain.
- Whisk eggs and milk.
- Combine potatoes, meat, cheese in dish.
- Pour eggs over. Bake 45 mins at 375°F.
Nutrition
Ingredient Highlights & Substitutions
Essential Ingredients
Ground Sausage: Breakfast sausage (sage or hot) is best.
Frozen Hash Browns: Thawed shredded potatoes work perfectly.
Eggs & Milk: For the fluffy binder.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds the best flavor punch.
Smart Substitutions
- Turkey Sausage: For a lighter version.
- Vegetables: Add sautéed kale or mushrooms for nutrition.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prep Phase
Preheat oven to 375°F. Brown the sausage in a skillet and drain the fat. Whisk eggs, milk, and spices.
Cooking Phase
Mix the hash browns, cooked sausage, and cheese in a greased 9×13 dish. Pour the egg mixture over the top. Bake for 40-45 minutes until set and golden.
Pro Tips for Perfect Results
Technique Secrets
Drain the Grease: Sausage is oily; draining it prevents a greasy casserole.
Thaw Potatoes: Ensure hash browns are thawed so they cook evenly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Undercooking: If the center is jiggly, it needs more time.
- Blandness: Don’t forget salt and pepper in the egg mixture.
Serving Ideas & Pairings
Presentation & Plating
Slice into squares and garnish with green onions.
Pairing Suggestions
Serve with fruit or a light salad. For a fun, handheld appetizer option alongside this main dish, try these Fast Copycat McGriddle Bites.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1? Can I freeze this?
Yes, bake it first, then freeze individual slices.
Q2? Can I use tater tots?
Yes! Tater tots make a fun, crunchy variation.
| Ingredient | Role |
|---|---|
| Sausage | Flavor & Protein |
| Eggs | Binder & Fluffiness |
| Potatoes | Base & Texture |
| Cheese | Gooeyness |
Conclusion
This casserole is a breakfast lifesaver. It is filling, delicious, and effortlessly feeds a hungry family.
