This Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole is a warm and hearty dish that brings your morning meal to the next level. It’s packed with crispy hashbrowns, eggs, cheese, and gooey goodness!
It’s like breakfast and dinner had a delicious baby! I love making it for lazy weekends, and leftovers are perfect for quick meals later in the week. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Hashbrowns: Frozen hashbrowns are super convenient and give a crispy texture. If you prefer fresh, you can shred your own potatoes, but remember to squeeze out excess moisture first!
Breakfast Sausage: I love using pork sausage for its flavor, but turkey or plant-based sausage works just as well for a lighter option!
Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds a great tangy flavor. If you’re not a fan, try Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a kick. Go with low-fat cheese for a healthier casserole.
Eggs: Essential for the structure, you could swap in egg whites to reduce cholesterol or try flaxseed eggs for a vegan option.
Onions and Bell Peppers: Both add crunch and flavor. Feel free to swap in mushrooms or spinach for a different taste! You could also use frozen diced onions for convenience.
What’s the Best Way to Ensure My Casserole is Well-Cooked?
Cooking the casserole just right can be tricky! Here’s how to check it properly:
- Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your baking dish to avoid sticking.
- Mix all ingredients thoroughly, and pour the egg mixture evenly for even cooking.
- To know it’s done, poke the center with a knife; it should come out clean. The edges should be golden brown.
- After baking, let it sit for a few minutes before slicing. This helps it set further and makes serving easier.
And remember, ovens can vary. If it seems undercooked at first, give it an extra 5-10 minutes, but keep an eye on the top to prevent burning!
Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1 (30 oz) package frozen hashbrowns (thawed)
- 1 lb breakfast sausage, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup diced onions
- 1 cup diced green bell pepper (optional)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh chives (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole takes about 15 minutes to prep and 45-55 minutes to bake, with a total of about 1 hour to 1 hour and 10 minutes until it’s ready. After baking, let it sit for a few minutes to cool before serving. Easy and perfect for breakfast or brunch!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). To get ready for baking, grease a 9×13 inch baking dish so your casserole won’t stick.
2. Mix the Base:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed hashbrowns, cooked crumbled sausage, diced onions, and if you like, the diced green bell pepper. Add 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese to the mix. Stir everything together until well combined, then spread it evenly into the prepared baking dish.
3. Make the Egg Mixture:
In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder until everything is nicely blended. This mixture will bind everything together and give it that fluffy texture.
4. Combine and Layer:
Once your egg mixture is ready, pour it evenly over the hashbrown mixture in the baking dish, making sure it covers everything well. Then, sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top for that melty goodness.
5. Bake to Perfection:
Place the baking dish in the oven and bake uncovered for about 45-55 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the middle is set and the top is nice and golden brown. Keep an eye on it to make sure it doesn’t over-bake!
6. Cool and Serve:
Once it’s baked to perfection, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This makes it easier to cut. Before serving, sprinkle the chopped fresh chives on top for a pop of color and flavor.
This hearty casserole is fantastic for feeding a crowd and makes great leftovers for those busy mornings ahead! Enjoy!
Can I Use Fresh Hashbrowns Instead of Frozen?
Yes, you can definitely use fresh hashbrowns! Just make sure to shred them and squeeze out any excess moisture to prevent a soggy casserole.
Can I Make the Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day ahead, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator. Just add about 10-15 minutes to the baking time since it will be chilled.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop it in the microwave or oven until heated through. You can enjoy it warm or even cold for a quick snack!
What Can I Substitute for the Breakfast Sausage?
If you’re looking for alternatives, turkey sausage or veggie sausage work great! You could also use crumbled bacon, or even skip the meat altogether and add extra veggies instead for a meat-free option.
