This Easy Sausage Hashbrown Casserole is ideal for those who crave a filling, cheesy, and slightly crispy breakfast with a pop of sausage flavor. It’s great for reheating, so you can enjoy leftovers for days. Whether served with fruit or toast, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Easy Sausage Hashbrown Casserole
Ingredients
- 1 Ib breakfast sausage
- 4 cups frozen hashbrowns
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 6 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- Salt and black pepper
- 1/2 cup diced onions
- 1/2 cup diced bell peppers
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Heat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13 baking dish.
- Cook sausage: In a skillet over medium heat, cook sausage until browned. Drain any excess grease and set aside.
- Layer ingredients: Spread the hashbrowns evenly across the greased baking dish. Add cooked sausage, followed by onions and bell peppers if using. Sprinkle shredded cheese on top.
- Mix egg mixture: In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, and pepper. Pour this mixture evenly over the casserole.
- Bake: Place casserole in the oven and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown.
- Serve: Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy!
Why You’ll Love Easy Sausage Hashbrown Casserole
Comfort food doesn’t get much better than an Easy Sausage Hashbrown Casserole. This dish is a go-to for many reasons, whether you’re cooking for a family breakfast, brunch with friends, or looking for a make-ahead dinner. Here’s why you’ll fall head over heels for this cozy casserole:
1. Hea rty and Satisfying
This casserole is packed with hearty ingredients like crispy hashbrowns, savory sausage, and gooey cheese, making it a filling meal that satisfies any appetite. The combination of textures—from the creamy potatoes to the sausage’s meaty bite—offers a perfect balance that leaves you feeling satisfied but not weighed down. It’s comfort food at its finest!
2. Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor
You don’t need fancy ingredients to make this casserole shine. Basic pantry staples like frozen hashbrowns, eggs, milk, and shredded cheese form the foundation, while breakfast sausage and seasonings add depth. Despite its simplicity, the flavors meld beautifully during baking to create a rich, savory dish that’s full of umami goodness.
4. Perfect for Any Meal
This casserole is a crowd-pleaser at breakfast or brunch, but it also works for lunch or dinner. Pair it with a side salad or fresh fruit, and you’ve got a well-rounded meal that’s ready in no time. It’s also ideal for potlucks, family gatherings, or holiday mornings when you need something quick, hearty, and universally loved.
5. Convenient Make-Ahead Option
Time-saving meals are a lifesaver in today’s busy world, and this casserole delivers. You can prepare it the night before, store it in the fridge, and simply pop it in the oven when ready to bake. This make-ahead convenience also makes it perfect for meal prep or hosting overnight guests.
6. Kid-Friendly Crowd Favorite
Kids love the cheesy, potato-filled goodness of this dish, and picky eaters will find it hard to resist. Plus, it’s easy to hide veggies in the casserole for a sneaky boost of nutrition.
7. One-Dish Wonder
No need to juggle multiple pots and pans—this dish is baked in a single casserole dish, meaning minimal cleanup. That’s a win for anyone who wants a delicious meal without a sink full of dishes.
Easy Sausage Hashbrown Casserole: Tips and Serving Tricks
This comforting casserole combines sausage, hashbrowns, and cheese to create a savory, satisfying meal perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dinner. Here are some tips and tricks to help you elevate your dish and maximize its serving potential.
Preparation Tips
- Choose the Right Sausage
- Opt for breakfast sausage for a classic flavor, but you can also experiment with spicy Italian sausage for a little heat or chicken sausage for a lighter option.
- Crispy Hashbrowns
- Thaw and pat dry frozen hashbrowns to remove excess moisture. This helps them crisp up while baking and prevents the dish from becoming soggy.
- Cook Sausage and Vegetables
- Cook the sausage before adding it to the casserole. Sautéing any additional vegetables like onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms beforehand ensures even cooking and enhances the flavor.
- Binder
- Eggs are typically used to bind the ingredients. If you prefer a richer texture, whisk in a little heavy cream or sour cream with the eggs before pouring over the casserole.
- Seasoning
- Add garlic powder, black pepper, paprika, or fresh herbs like thyme to enhance the casserole’s depth of flavor. Avoid too much salt if the sausage is already salty.
Cheese Choices
- Cheese Variations
- Cheddar is a classic, but feel free to mix it up with Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even pepper jack for extra spice. Use a generous amount on top for a melty, golden crust.
- Add Creaminess
- A dollop of cream cheese mixed into the sausage adds a rich, creamy texture to the casserole.
Serving Tricks
- Portion Control
- Cut the casserole into even squares before serving for a clean, presentable look. This helps if you’re serving guests or packing for meal prep.
- Accompaniments
- Pair the casserole with a simple side salad or fruit to balance the richness. It also goes well with biscuits or toast.
- Toppings
- Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or green onions for a pop of color and freshness. A dollop of sour cream or salsa can add a fun twist.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Meal Prep
- Assemble the casserole the night before, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. In the morning, bake it fresh for a stress-free breakfast.
- Freezing
- You can freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 2 months. When ready to cook, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
Storing Leftovers
- Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes or until warmed through.
Customization Tips:
- Veggie lovers: Add spinach, mushrooms, or diced tomatoes for extra flavor.
- Meat options: Swap out sausage for bacon, ham, or plant-based meat alternatives.
- Cheese variations: Use Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a blend for a different cheesy flavor.
Conclusion
Easy Sausage Hashbrown Casserole is a dish that checks all the boxes: flavorful, hearty, simple, versatile, and convenient. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just want a cozy meal for yourself, it’s bound to become one of your favorite go-to recipes. Give it a try, and you’ll understand why it’s so loved!
