Sausage Hashbrown Casserole is a hearty, comforting, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner. This dish combines the rich, savory taste of breakfast sausage with the crispy texture of hashbrowns and a creamy, cheesy base.
The result is a filling casserole that pleases crowds and is easy to prepare, making it ideal for potlucks or family gatherings.
Many variations exist to customize this casserole. Some recipes incorporate sautéed onions and bell peppers for added sweetness and crunch.
Others might use alternative proteins, such as turkey sausage or plant-based sausage, for a lighter or vegetarian-friendly twist. Additional ingredients like garlic powder, paprika, or chopped green onions elevate the flavor profile.
Sausage Hashbrown Casserole
Ingredients
- 1 Ib bulk pork sausage
- 1 package frozen hash browns thawed
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup green onions chopped
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
- Cook the sausage and onion: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage and chopped onion until the sausage is browned and the onion is tender. Stir occasionally to combine the flavors.
- Drain excess fat: Remove any excess grease from the skillet to keep the casserole from becoming too oily.
- Combine ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked sausage and onions, thawed hash browns, shredded cheddar, cottage cheese, and sour cream. Mix thoroughly to distribute all the ingredients evenly.
- Season: Add salt and pepper to taste. Be cautious with the salt, as the sausage and cheeses already contain some.
- Spread in dish: Evenly spread the mixture into the prepared baking dish. An even layer ensures consistent baking and texture.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbly. The golden crust adds a crunchy texture and indicates the casserole is cooked through.
- Garnish and serve: Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped green onions for a pop of freshness and color.
Why You’ll Love Sausage Hashbrown Casserole
Sausage Hashbrown Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining rich, hearty ingredients in a single dish that satisfies on every level. It’s easy to make, versatile, and bursting with flavor, making it the perfect addition to breakfast, brunch, or even dinner. Here’s why this dish is destined to become one of your favorites.
1. Hearty and Filling
The combination of crispy hash browns and savory sausage creates a dish that is as satisfying as it is flavorful. Hash browns provide a starchy, golden base with a slight crunch, while the sausage brings protein and spice. Together, they form a well-balanced meal that sticks to your ribs and keeps you feeling full and energized. Whether you’re starting your day or winding down after a long one, this casserole hits the spot.
2. Bursting with Flavor
Every bite of Sausage Hashbrown Casserole is an explosion of taste. The spiced sausage mingles with melty cheese and well-seasoned potatoes, creating a comforting and cohesive flavor profile. You can also enhance the taste by adding ingredients like onions, garlic, peppers, or even a sprinkle of paprika for a smoky kick. Each component comes together to make every mouthful memorable.
3. Easy to Make
One of the best aspects of this casserole is its simplicity. With just a few pantry staples, you can whip up a delicious meal in under an hour. Many recipes use frozen hash browns, pre-cooked sausage, and shredded cheese to streamline the preparation process. Simply brown the sausage, mix all the ingredients together, and bake it to golden perfection. It’s the kind of meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekend mornings.
4. Customizable to Your Taste
Sausage Hashbrown Casserole is incredibly versatile. You can customize it with different types of sausage—try spicy Italian for a bold kick or maple-flavored for a touch of sweetness. Vegetarians can swap out the sausage for plant-based alternatives or add more vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers. You can also experiment with different cheeses—cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Gouda all work beautifully. If you like a little heat, add jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. The possibilities are endless, making this dish one you can truly make your own.
5. Perfect for Any Occasion
This casserole is ideal for any gathering, from a casual breakfast at home to holiday brunches or potlucks. It’s easy to prepare ahead of time, making it a go-to option for hosting. Simply assemble the casserole the night before, pop it in the fridge, and bake it when you’re ready. It’s also a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to disappear quickly at any event.
6. Leftovers Reheat Well
If you manage to have leftovers, you’re in luck. This dish reheats beautifully, maintaining its texture and flavor. You can enjoy it for breakfast the next day or pair it with a side salad for an easy lunch.
Sausage Hashbrown Casserole: Tips and Serving Tricks
Sausage hashbrown casserole is a hearty, comforting dish ideal for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner. It’s a blend of crispy hashbrowns, savory sausage, cheese, and a creamy binding that makes it perfect for feeding a crowd. Here are tips and tricks to ensure a perfect casserole and ways to serve it with flair.
Ingredients and Preparation Tips
- Choose the Right Sausage:
Opt for quality sausage with bold flavor. Breakfast sausage, Italian sausage, or spicy chorizo work well. For a leaner option, try turkey sausage. - Hashbrowns:
Frozen hashbrowns save time and work perfectly, but thaw them first to remove excess moisture. Pat dry to ensure a crispy casserole base. - Cheese Choices:
Cheddar is classic, but Monterey Jack, Swiss, or Pepper Jack can elevate the flavor. Using a combination of cheeses will add depth. - Creamy Base:
A mixture of cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup, sour cream, or heavy cream binds the casserole. For a lighter option, use Greek yogurt or reduced-fat sour cream. - Veggie Add-ins:
Add diced onions, bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for more flavor and nutrition. Sauté vegetables before adding to avoid excess moisture. - Seasoning:
Don’t skip seasonings like salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Add a dash of cayenne or crushed red pepper for heat.
Cooking Tips
- Pre-baking Sausage:
Fully cook and drain the sausage to remove extra grease before mixing it into the casserole. - Layering:
Spread hashbrowns evenly as the base for uniform cooking. Ensure the sausage and cheese are distributed evenly for balanced flavor in every bite. - Covering:
Bake the casserole covered with foil for the first half of the cooking time to retain moisture, then uncover for the last 15-20 minutes for a golden, crispy top. - Check Doneness:
Bake at 350°F for 40-50 minutes or until bubbly and golden. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean.
Serving Tricks
- Garnishing:
Sprinkle with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color. Adding a dollop of sour cream or hot sauce on the side enhances flavor. - Individual Portions:
Bake the casserole in muffin tins for pre-portioned servings—perfect for meal prep or brunch buffets. - Toppings Bar:
Create a toppings bar with options like crumbled bacon, diced avocado, shredded cheese, and salsa to let guests customize their portions. - Serving Pairings:
Serve with fresh fruit, a mixed green salad, or toast to balance the richness. A mimosa or iced coffee complements this dish beautifully for brunch. - Leftovers:
Refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days or freeze individual portions for easy reheating. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to restore crispness.
By following these tips, you’ll create a sausage hashbrown casserole that’s packed with flavor, cooked to perfection, and presented with style.
In short, Sausage Hashbrown Casserole is the perfect balance of flavor, convenience, and satisfaction. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or treating yourself, this dish is guaranteed to become a beloved staple in your meal rotation.
