Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole | CookTune

Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole

Oh, the joy of a breakfast casserole—especially one that includes crispy hashbrowns, savory sausage, and gooey cheese. Trust me, this Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole is everything you could want in a breakfast or brunch dish. It’s hearty, satisfying, and can be whipped up with ingredients you probably already have on hand. Imagine waking up to the smell of this baking in the oven, your mouth watering with every minute that passes—pure comfort food bliss. You won’t want to miss out on this one!

Why You’ll Love Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion, feeding a crowd at a brunch, or just enjoying a hearty start to your day, this casserole is perfect. Here’s why this one is a must-try:

  • Perfect for a Crowd: This casserole is ideal when you’re hosting a brunch or having family over. It’s easy to prepare in advance and can serve a large group, making it a great option for those busy mornings.
  • Filling and Flavorful: With layers of crispy hashbrowns, savory sausage, eggs, and melted cheese, this casserole is packed with all the flavors you crave. It’s satisfying enough to keep you full and energized until lunch.
  • Quick and Easy: This breakfast casserole is simple to throw together and requires minimal effort. Just layer the ingredients, pop it in the oven, and let it do its thing while you go enjoy your morning coffee.
  • Customizable: You can easily tweak this recipe to suit your taste. Add some bell peppers for extra color and crunch, throw in some spinach for a bit of greens, or switch up the meat if you prefer bacon or ham instead of sausage.
  • Make-Ahead Magic: The best part? You can make it ahead of time! Prep it the night before, then just pop it in the oven the next morning. That means less stress and more time to enjoy your morning.
Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole

Ingredients

Here’s the magic of this casserole—it’s made with simple ingredients, yet the result is pure breakfast perfection. Let’s break it down:

  • Hashbrowns: The crispy base of the casserole. They provide that satisfying crunch and soak up all the savory flavors.
  • Breakfast Sausage: A classic in breakfast casseroles, giving the dish rich, flavorful meatiness.
  • Eggs: These create the fluffy texture of the casserole and help hold everything together.
  • Cheddar Cheese: Melty, gooey, and slightly sharp—cheddar cheese is the perfect cheese for this dish.
  • Milk: Helps create the creamy texture in the casserole.
  • Onion: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth to the flavor.
  • Salt & Pepper: To season everything perfectly and bring out the best in the other ingredients.

(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this savory masterpiece:

  • Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your casserole cooks evenly and gets that beautiful golden brown color.
  • Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet, brown the breakfast sausage over medium heat. Once fully cooked, drain the excess grease and set the sausage aside.
  • Prepare the Casserole Dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter. This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier.
  • Layer the Hashbrowns: Spread the frozen hashbrowns evenly in the bottom of the prepared dish. No need to thaw them; they’ll cook perfectly from frozen.
  • Add the Sausage: Evenly distribute the cooked sausage over the hashbrowns. This creates a savory base layer that infuses the dish with rich flavor.
  • Mix the Eggs and Milk: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper. Pour this mixture over the hashbrowns and sausage, ensuring that everything is covered evenly.
  • Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top. The more cheese, the better, right?
  • Bake the Casserole: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is golden and bubbly.
  • Finishing Touches: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps it firm up and makes it easier to slice.
  • Serve and Enjoy: Slice the casserole and serve warm. It’s the perfect breakfast dish for any occasion.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 8
Calories per serving: 400
Preparation Time:
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

How to Serve Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole

This casserole pairs wonderfully with various sides and drinks. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your breakfast or brunch:

  • Fresh Fruit: Pair it with a refreshing fruit salad or some fresh berries to add a burst of sweetness and color.
  • Toast: Serve with a slice of buttered toast for extra crunch and to help soak up any cheesy goodness.
  • Juice or Coffee: Complement the dish with a glass of freshly squeezed juice or your favorite coffee to start the day off right.
  • Sautéed Vegetables: For a healthier touch, add some sautéed veggies like bell peppers or spinach on the side.

As a Standalone: This casserole is hearty enough to stand on its own. Garnish with some fresh herbs or a dollop of sour cream for an extra touch.

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:

  • Prep Ahead: You can assemble the casserole the night before and refrigerate it overnight. Just pop it in the oven the next morning for an easy, no-stress breakfast.
  • Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some hot sauce for an extra kick.
  • Dietary Adjustments: Swap the sausage for a vegetarian sausage or bacon if you prefer, or make it gluten-free by using gluten-free hashbrowns.
  • Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven for best results.
  • Freezer-Friendly: This casserole freezes beautifully! Make a double batch and store the extra in the freezer for up to 3 months. Simply thaw and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I make this casserole without meat?
A1: Yes! You can easily make this a vegetarian dish by omitting the sausage and adding extra veggies, like mushrooms or bell peppers.

Q2: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A2: Absolutely! While cheddar is the classic choice, feel free to swap in mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a blend of cheeses for a different flavor.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven.

Q4: Can I make this casserole gluten-free?
A4: Yes! Just use gluten-free hashbrowns to make it gluten-free.

Q5: How do I reheat leftovers?
A5: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or in the microwave in 30-second intervals until warmed through.

Q6: Can I double the recipe?
A6: Yes! Just use a larger baking dish and adjust the cooking time as needed.

Q7: Can I use fresh hashbrowns instead of frozen?
A7: Yes, you can use fresh hashbrowns. Just make sure to cook them a bit before adding them to the casserole to avoid excess moisture.

Q8: Can I freeze this casserole?
A8: Yes, this casserole freezes really well. After baking, let it cool, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil and freeze for up to 3 months.

Q9: Can I add other vegetables to the casserole?
A9: Absolutely! Add any vegetables you like, such as bell peppers, spinach, or even mushrooms.

Q10: How can I make the casserole spicier?
A10: Add some diced jalapeños, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or a few dashes of hot sauce to bring some heat to the dish.

Conclusion

And there you have it—an easy, flavorful Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole that’s perfect for busy mornings, brunch with friends, or even a family gathering. It’s simple, satisfying, and so delicious, you’ll find yourself making it time and time again. So, grab your ingredients, get baking, and enjoy the deliciousness that’s waiting to happen in your kitchen!

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Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole

Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole

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  • Author: Maria
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x
  • Category: Breakfast
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Description

This easy hashbrown breakfast casserole is a hearty, make-ahead dish that’s perfect for feeding a crowd. Made with crispy hashbrowns, savory sausage, eggs, and melty cheese, this flavorful breakfast bake is great for holidays, brunches, or meal prep!


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 1 lb ground sausage
  • 20 oz shredded hashbrowns, thawed
  • 1/4 cup white onion, diced
  • 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1/2 green bell pepper, diced
  • 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 8 large eggs
  • 1 (12 oz) can evaporated milk
  • 1/2 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Cooking spray

Instructions

  • Preheat & Prepare: Preheat oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
  • Cook Sausage: In a skillet over medium-high heat, brown the sausage until fully cooked, then drain the grease.
  • Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked sausage, hashbrowns, diced onion, diced bell peppers, and 1 ½ cups of shredded cheese. Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
  • Whisk Eggs: In another bowl, whisk together eggs, evaporated milk, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
  • Assemble: Pour the egg mixture over the hashbrown mixture. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheese on top.
  • Bake: Bake for 55-65 minutes or until the center is fully set and the top is golden brown.
  • Serve & Enjoy: Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Notes

  • Make Ahead: Assemble the night before, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Bake fresh in the morning.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days.
  • Freezing: Freeze individual portions for an easy meal prep breakfast!

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 410
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 720mg
  • Fat: 28g
  • Saturated Fat: 12g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 16g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Cholesterol: 230mg
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