Gathering around the breakfast table with friends and family is special. It’s even more magical with a hearty breakfast casserole at the center. Last Sunday, I made a Sausage Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole for my loved ones.
The kitchen filled with a wonderful aroma, and everyone’s excitement grew. This dish combines the crunch of golden hash browns with savory sausage. It’s perfect for serving a crowd and creates lasting memories.
This breakfast casserole is my favorite for any gathering. It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and loved by all. I’m excited to share more about this dish with you!
Key Takeaways
- The Sausage Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole is perfect for gatherings.
- This dish combines the flavors of sausage and crispy hash browns.
- Easy to prepare with minimal fuss, making breakfast stress-free.
- Adaptable to fit different dietary needs and preferences.
- Presents beautifully, making it a feast for the eyes and taste buds.
Introduction to Sausage Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole
A breakfast casserole is a tasty dish that mixes eggs, cheese, meat, and starches. It’s perfect for families or gatherings, offering a hearty meal with ease. The mix of flavors in a breakfast casserole with eggs and cheese makes for a great start to the day.
What Is a Breakfast Casserole?
A breakfast casserole has eggs, cheese, and fillings like meats and veggies. Hash browns are a popular base. This makes making a breakfast casserole fun and easy, as you can pick your favorite ingredients. Plus, they’re baked in one dish, making cooking simple.
Benefits of Breakfast Casseroles
Breakfast casseroles are great for serving a big group. They’re filling, so you can feed many with less work. You can also customize them to fit everyone’s tastes, making sure no one goes hungry.
Perfect for Meal Prep
Meal prep fans will love a make ahead breakfast casserole. You can prep it the night before for a quick, delicious breakfast. Just bake it while you get ready, saving time and ensuring a healthy meal.
Sausage Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole Recipe
Ingredients:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound (450g) breakfast sausage (pork or turkey)
- 1 (30 oz / 850g) bag frozen shredded hash browns (thawed)
- 2 cups (200g) shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1/2 cup (50g) diced onions (optional)
- 1/2 cup (75g) diced bell peppers (optional – red or green)
- 8 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups (360ml) milk (whole or 2%)
- 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream (can substitute with more milk)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional, for color and flavor)
- Cooking spray or butter (for greasing the baking dish)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat & Prep
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
2. Cook the Sausage
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage until browned and cooked through, breaking it up into crumbles with a spatula.
- If using, add onions and bell peppers in the last 3–4 minutes of cooking until softened.
- Drain any excess grease and set aside.
3. Layer the Casserole
- Spread the thawed hash browns evenly across the bottom of the greased dish.
- Sprinkle the cooked sausage mixture over the hash browns.
- Add 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese on top of the sausage layer.
4. Mix the Egg Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:
- Eggs
- Milk
- Heavy cream
- Salt
- Pepper
- Garlic powder
- Paprika
- Mix until well combined and smooth.
5. Pour & Top
- Slowly pour the egg mixture evenly over the layered ingredients in the dish.
- Gently press down with a spatula to ensure everything is coated.
- Top with the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese.
6. Bake
- Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes.
- Then uncover and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes, or until the top is golden and the center is set (a knife inserted should come out clean).
7. Rest & Serve
- Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing.
- Garnish with chopped chives, green onions, or parsley if desired.
With these ingredients and optional add-ins, you can make your hash brown casserole your own. It will surely please everyone at the table.
Preparation Steps
Making a tasty sausage hash brown breakfast casserole is easy. Just follow a few steps to make sure all ingredients blend well. Your family will love it. Here’s how to start.
How to Prepare the Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients. Here are some tips for preparation:
- Thaw your hash browns in the fridge overnight to save time.
- Cook the sausage in a skillet until it’s brown and fully cooked. Break it into small pieces.
- Chop any vegetables like bell peppers or onions to add flavor and nutrition.
- Mix all the ingredients in a big bowl, making sure they’re evenly spread.
Assembling the Casserole
When your ingredients are ready, putting the casserole together is fun and simple. Just follow these steps:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- Put a greased baking dish on the bottom layer with thawed hash browns.
- Place the cooked sausage and vegetables on top of the hash browns.
- Pour the egg mixture over the whole casserole, making sure it reaches all layers.
- Finish by sprinkling cheese on top for a tasty finish.
Now, your make ahead breakfast casserole is ready to bake. Enjoy the ease of making such a satisfying dish!
Cooking Instructions
Making a hearty breakfast casserole for a crowd needs careful cooking. I’ll show you how to bake it right. You’ll learn how to get a golden brown top that everyone will enjoy.
Baking the Casserole
First, heat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Then, cover the casserole with aluminum foil to stop it from getting too dark. Bake for 30 minutes, then take off the foil. Bake for another 15 to 20 minutes until it’s golden and bubbly.
Tips for Achieving Perfect Texture
Let the casserole rest for at least 10 minutes after baking. This helps it set, making it easier to cut and serve. To keep it from being soggy, don’t add too much liquid. Make sure all ingredients are drained, like any veggies. These tips will make your casserole a hit at any breakfast.
Serving Suggestions
Serving a delicious breakfast casserole can make any morning special. Pairing it with sides that match its flavors is key. Fresh fruit adds color and sweetness, while crispy toast brings a nice crunch. For a lighter option, a side salad is perfect.
Ideal Accompaniments for the Casserole
- Fresh seasonal fruit, such as berries or sliced melon
- Crispy toast or warm, buttery croissants
- A simple garden salad for a refreshing contrast
- Condiments like salsa, hot sauce, or avocado spread
Serving Size and Presentation Tips
I recommend a serving size of 2 to 3 inches square for each person. This size is just right, so no one feels too full. For a nice look, use a good serving dish and add fresh herbs or cheese on top.
Storage Tips
Wondering how to keep your leftover breakfast casserole fresh? Proper storage is key. It helps keep the quality and taste of your make ahead breakfast casserole. This way, you can enjoy its flavors again.
Storing Leftovers Properly
First, let your casserole cool down completely. Then, put it in an airtight container. Glass or plastic containers work well, making sure they’re sealed tight. This keeps moisture and air out.
For longer storage, wrap the container in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Leftovers can stay fresh in the fridge for up to four days. To freeze, wrap individual servings in plastic wrap and put them in a freezer-safe container. This keeps your casserole fresh for up to three months.
Reheating Instructions
Reheating your leftovers right is important. If using an oven, preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover the casserole with foil to prevent drying. Heat for 20-30 minutes, until it’s warm.
For quicker reheating, the microwave is a good choice. Place a serving on a microwave-safe plate. Cover loosely with a damp paper towel. Heat for 1-2 minutes, checking often. This method helps keep the texture and flavors of your casserole.
Variations on the Recipe
Trying out different versions of the breakfast casserole with sausage is fun. It’s great for making the dish fit your taste and dietary needs. You can add or change ingredients to make it your own.
Vegetarian Options
For a meatless breakfast, you can swap sausage for other ingredients. Mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach are tasty choices. You can also use plant-based proteins like tempeh or tofu for a savory twist.
These options add texture and flavor to the dish. So, everyone can enjoy a tasty breakfast casserole.
Using Different Meats
Want to try something new? Use different meats to create unique versions. Crispy bacon, diced ham, or turkey sausage add exciting flavors.
Each meat brings its own taste and texture. This lets you get creative in the kitchen.
Nutritional Information
Knowing the nutritional content of the breakfast casserole with eggs and cheese is key. It helps you make better choices when cooking this dish. Here’s a breakdown of calories, protein, fat, and carbs for a clear picture.
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1/8 of Casserole) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 |
| Protein | 18g |
| Fat | 18g |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
To make this dish healthier, try some substitutions. For example:
- Using egg whites instead of whole eggs cuts down on cholesterol and fat.
- Choosing low-fat cheese or plant-based cheese reduces saturated fat.
- Switching to whole-grain hash browns boosts fiber.
- Adding more veggies like spinach, bell peppers, or tomatoes increases nutrients and color.
Conclusion
The Sausage Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole Recipe is truly comforting. It’s easy to make and lets you add your own touches. This makes it perfect for any time, whether it’s a family brunch or a busy week.
This casserole is special because it brings people together. The flavors mix well, and it’s loved by both kids and adults. It shows that breakfast can be both hearty and simple to make. Try it at home and see how it becomes a favorite.
Let’s enjoy cooking with this amazing Sausage Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole Recipe. It’s delicious and easy to prepare. Get your ingredients ready and make a meal that everyone will love for days!
