Sausage Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole is the perfect dish for any morning. This hearty casserole combines crispy hash browns, savory sausage, fluffy eggs, and melted cheese, making it an ideal choice for brunches, holidays, or family gatherings. The best part? You can prepare it ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake! It’s a convenient and delicious way to start your day.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare the casserole the night before and simply bake it in the morning.
- Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The combination of sausage and cheese creates a rich and satisfying taste that everyone will love.
- Versatile Ingredients: Customize with your favorite veggies or spices for a unique twist.
- Easy Cleanup: With just one pan needed, this recipe minimizes mess and maximizes enjoyment.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for family breakfasts, holiday brunches, or overnight guests.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into this delectable dish, gather your tools. Having the right equipment ensures a smooth cooking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet
- 9×13-inch baking pan
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cooking spray
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet: Perfect for browning sausage and hash browns evenly.
- 9×13-inch baking pan: Provides ample space for layering ingredients, ensuring even cooking.
- Whisk: Essential for thoroughly combining eggs and milk for a fluffy texture.
Ingredients
For the Sausage Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole
- 2 lb hot breakfast sausage
- 1 (30-32oz) bag frozen shredded hash browns
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 8 eggs
- 2 cups milk
How to Make Sausage Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350ºF. Lightly spray a 9×13-inch pan with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage
In a large skillet, cook the hot breakfast sausage over medium heat until no longer pink. Drain any excess fat from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Hash Browns
Add the frozen shredded hash browns to the skillet. Cook until they are lightly browned. If necessary, add a little oil to help them brown evenly. Once done, place the hash browns in the bottom of your greased baking pan.
Step 4: Layer with Sausage and Cheese
Top the hash browns with the cooked sausage and sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese.
Step 5: Mix Eggs and Pour Over Mixture
In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and milk. Pour this mixture evenly over the hash brown layer in your baking pan.
Step 6: Refrigerate or Bake Immediately
Cover and refrigerate at this point if baking later, or bake immediately.
Step 7: Bake Until Set
Bake uncovered in your preheated oven for 35–40 minutes or until set in the middle. Enjoy your delicious Sausage Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole!
How to Serve Sausage Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole
Sausage Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole is a versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a big family breakfast or just enjoying a cozy brunch at home, here are some delightful serving suggestions.
Pair with Fresh Fruit
- A colorful fruit salad adds a refreshing touch and balances the richness of the casserole.
Drizzle with Hot Sauce
- For those who enjoy a kick, adding hot sauce can elevate the flavors and bring extra heat.
Serve with Toast
- Crisp, buttery toast complements the casserole and provides a satisfying crunch with each bite.
Accompany with Coffee or Juice
- Freshly brewed coffee or a glass of orange juice pairs perfectly, enhancing the overall meal experience.
Add a Dollop of Sour Cream
- A spoonful of sour cream on top can add creaminess and tang that contrasts nicely with the savory elements.
How to Perfect Sausage Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole
To ensure your Sausage Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole turns out perfectly every time, consider these tips:
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh sausage and high-quality cheese enhance flavor significantly.
- Thaw hash browns: If using frozen hash browns, thaw them first for even cooking throughout.
- Mix well: Ensure all ingredients are combined evenly to get consistent bites in every serving.
- Check doneness: Insert a knife in the center; it should come out clean when fully cooked.
- Let it rest: Allow the casserole to sit for a few minutes after baking for easier slicing.
Best Side Dishes for Sausage Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole
Pairing side dishes with your Sausage Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole can enhance your breakfast spread. Here are some great options:
- Bacon: Crispy bacon strips provide a salty crunch that pairs well with the casserole’s richness.
- Pancakes: Fluffy pancakes drizzled with maple syrup offer a sweet contrast to the savory dish.
- Avocado Toast: Creamy avocado on toasted bread adds healthy fats and freshness to your plate.
- Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt with granola and berries creates a light, nutritious side.
- Spinach Salad: A simple spinach salad dressed lightly offers brightness and health benefits.
- Muffins: Sweet or savory muffins can round out your meal while adding variety in texture and flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making a Sausage Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole can be simple, but avoiding common mistakes will ensure a delicious result. Here are some pitfalls to steer clear of:
- Skipping the Preheating: Not preheating the oven can result in uneven cooking. Always preheat to 350ºF before baking.
- Overcooking the Sausage: Cooking sausage until it’s too dry can affect flavor. Aim for just cooked through, then drain excess fat.
- Neglecting Seasoning: Under-seasoning can make your casserole bland. Use salt, pepper, and spices to enhance flavors.
- Using the Wrong Pan Size: A pan that’s too small can overflow while baking. Use a 9×13-inch pan for best results.
- Not Letting it Rest: Cutting into the casserole immediately after baking can cause it to fall apart. Allow it to rest for at least 10 minutes.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
- Make sure the casserole has cooled completely before sealing.
Freezing Sausage Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly with plastic wrap and foil.
- It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Sausage Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350ºF and bake for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat individual portions on high for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
- Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making a Sausage Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole.
Can I use different types of sausage?
Yes, you can use mild or turkey sausage as alternatives. Just adjust seasoning based on your preference.
How do I make this casserole vegetarian?
Replace sausage with sautéed vegetables or plant-based sausage and ensure all other ingredients are vegetarian-friendly.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble it the night before and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.
What sides pair well with this breakfast casserole?
Fresh fruit, yogurt, or a light salad complement this hearty dish perfectly.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for longer storage.
Final Thoughts
The Sausage Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole is a delightful dish perfect for brunches and holiday gatherings. Its ease of preparation makes it great for busy mornings or overnight guests. Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies or cheese options!
Breakfast
Sausage Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole
Sausage Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole is a hearty and satisfying dish that is perfect for any morning gathering. This comforting casserole features layers of crispy hash browns, savory sausage, fluffy eggs, and melted cheddar cheese, creating a flavor explosion that will please everyone at the table.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 people
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 lb hot breakfast sausage
- 1 (30-32 oz) bag frozen shredded hash browns
- 8 eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt
- Pepper
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking pan with cooking spray.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Add hash browns to the skillet and cook until lightly browned; transfer to the bottom of the prepared baking pan.
- Layer cooked sausage over hash browns and sprinkle with shredded cheese.
- In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Pour evenly over the layered ingredients.
- Cover and refrigerate or bake immediately for 35–40 minutes until set.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 170g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 180mg
Leave a Comment