When it comes to comfort food that satisfies a hungry crowd, few dishes compete with a hearty, flavorful breakfast casserole. The sausage, egg, and cheese hashbrown breakfast casserole is a perennial favorite, blending crispy hashbrowns, savory sausage, creamy eggs, and gooey cheese into one irresistible dish.
Whether you’re cooking for a weekend brunch, a holiday gathering, or meal prepping for the week ahead, this breakfast casserole is the answer to your prayers.
This post will guide you step-by-step to create the perfect casserole dish, packed with tips and tricks designed to make your dish foolproof. By the end, you’ll know the ingredients required, the equipment needed, and even creative serving and storage tips to elevate your breakfast game.
Why Do People Love This Sausage, Egg, and Cheese Hashbrown Casserole?
There’s a reason this casserole is a breakfast staple—it has something for everyone. The sausage delivers bold, meaty flavor, the eggs provide a silky, protein-packed base, and the hashbrowns add a crispy yet tender texture. Top it all off with melted cheese, and you’ve got a dish that satisfies every craving.
Here are just a few reasons why breakfast lovers swear by this recipe:
- Perfect for Events: Whether it’s a casual Sunday brunch or a Christmas morning feast, this casserole feeds a crowd with ease.
- Prepare Ahead: The recipe can be prepared the night before, reducing the stress of breakfast cooking.
- Customizable: Swap in different meats, cheeses, or veggies to suit your preferences.
Now, let’s break down the ingredients you’ll need to create this timeless breakfast dish.
Ingredients Needed for This Cheese Hashbrown Casserole
To make an 8-10 serving casserole, you’ll need the following simple and wholesome ingredients:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound of breakfast sausage (mild or spicy, depending on your taste)
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of your favorite cheeses)
- 1 bag (30 ounces) of frozen hashbrowns, thawed
- 1 cup of milk (whole milk works best)
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- ½ teaspoon of black pepper
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon of onion powder
Optional Add-ins:
- 1 cup of diced bell peppers (mix of red, green, and yellow for color)
- ½ cup of chopped green onions
- 1 cup of sautéd mushrooms
Gather these items, and you’re ready to begin transforming your kitchen into a breakfast haven.
Equipment Needed
Having the right tools will ensure your recipe goes smoothly from start to finish:
- 9″x13″ baking dish
- Mixing bowls (large and medium)
- Skillet
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cheese grater (if shredding your own cheese)
- Aluminum foil (for covering the dish if preparing ahead)
How to Make Sausage, Egg, and Cheese Hashbrown Casserole
Follow this step-by-step recipe for a casserole that will impress everyone at the table:
Step 1: Preheat & Prepare
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9″x13″ baking dish to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage
Heat a skillet over medium heat. Crumble the breakfast sausage into the skillet and cook until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess grease and set the sausage aside.
Step 3: Assemble the Hashbrown Base
Spread the thawed hashbrowns evenly into the greased baking dish. Sprinkle onion powder and garlic powder over the hashbrowns for an added layer of flavor.
Step 4: Add Sausage & Cheese
Distribute the cooked sausage evenly over the hashbrowns. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese on top of the sausage.
Step 5: Whisk the Egg Mixture
In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, and pepper. If adding diced vegetables, fold them into the egg mixture at this stage.
Step 6: Pour & Top
Carefully pour the egg mixture over the hashbrowns, sausage, and cheese. Top with the remaining cheese for that irresistible melted layer.
Step 7: Bake
Bake the casserole in your preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set. You’ll know it’s ready if a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 8: Serve
Allow the casserole to cool for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy!
Serving Ideas
This casserole is already a complete dish, but you can enhance the experience with:
- A fresh green salad tossed with a light vinaigrette
- Sliced avocado or a dollop of guacamole for a creamy addition
- A side of crusty bread or buttery biscuits to complement the dish
- Roasted vegetables, such as asparagus or bell peppers, for added nutrition
- A fruit salad or fresh berries to balance the savory flavors
Storage Tips and Tricks
Want to make your casserole last longer? Here’s how:
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: You can freeze individual portions for up to 3 months. Wrap servings tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or microwave single servings for 1-2 minutes.
Pro Tip: If you’re making it ahead, assemble everything the night before, cover tightly with foil, and refrigerate overnight. Bake it fresh in the morning.
Pro Tips for the Best Sausage, Egg, and Cheese Hashbrown Casserole
Want to perfect your casserole? Try these expert tips:
- Crispier Hashbrowns: Pre-cook the hashbrowns in the skillet with a little oil before assembling the casserole for extra crispiness.
- Cheese Variations: Swap cheddar with mozzarella, pepper jack, or gouda for a unique twist.
- Customize the Protein: Replace sausage with bacon, ham, or even plant-based meat alternatives.
- Season Well: Don’t skip the seasonings—they elevate the flavors of your dish.
- Go for Fresh: While frozen hashbrowns are convenient, using freshly shredded potatoes will give your casserole a much better texture.
- Experiment with Add-ins: Get creative by adding ingredients like spinach, corn, or even salsa to your egg mixture.
Conclusion
Sausage, Egg, and Cheese Hashbrown Casserole is the ultimate breakfast comfort food. With its customizable and make-ahead options, it’s perfect for any occasion. Use this recipe as a base and experiment with different ingredients to create your own signature version. And remember to always have the right equipment on hand for a smooth cooking experience. Share this delicious breakfast dish with your loved ones and make their morning extra special! Happy cooking!
FAQ
Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
Absolutely! Swap the sausage for sautéed vegetables or plant-based sausage alternatives.
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hashbrowns?
Yes, shred fresh potatoes using a box grater. Make sure to squeeze out excess moisture before using them.
How do I know when the casserole is done?
The casserole is set when the center no longer jiggles, and a knife inserted into the middle comes out clean.
Can I prepare this casserole the night before?
Yes, this casserole is an excellent make-ahead dish. Assemble it completely, then cover and refrigerate overnight. When you’re ready to bake, simply place it in the oven and add about 5-10 minutes to the cooking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
What other cheeses can I use?
Feel free to experiment with cheeses like cheddar, Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even pepper jack for a spicier kick. Just make sure to shred them yourself for the best melting and texture. So go ahead, get creative with your casserole and enjoy! Happy cooking!
Sausage, Egg, and Cheese Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole Recipe
Equipment
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Spatula
- Aluminum foil
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound of breakfast sausage mild or spicy, depending on your taste
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese or a blend of your favorite cheeses
- 1 bag 30 ounces of frozen hashbrowns, thawed
- 1 cup of milk whole milk works best
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- ½ teaspoon of black pepper
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon of onion powder
Optional Add-ins:
- 1 cup of diced bell peppers mix of red, green, and yellow for color
- ½ cup of chopped green onions
- 1 cup of sautéd mushrooms
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat & Prepare
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9″x13″ baking dish to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage
- Heat a skillet over medium heat. Crumble the breakfast sausage into the skillet and cook until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess grease and set the sausage aside.
Step 3: Assemble the Hashbrown Base
- Spread the thawed hashbrowns evenly into the greased baking dish. Sprinkle onion powder and garlic powder over the hashbrowns for an added layer of flavor.
Step 4: Add Sausage & Cheese
- Distribute the cooked sausage evenly over the hashbrowns. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese on top of the sausage.
Step 5: Whisk the Egg Mixture
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, and pepper. If adding diced vegetables, fold them into the egg mixture at this stage.
Step 6: Pour & Top
- Carefully pour the egg mixture over the hashbrowns, sausage, and cheese. Top with the remaining cheese for that irresistible melted layer.
Step 7: Bake
- Bake the casserole in your preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set. You’ll know it’s ready if a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 8: Serve
- Allow the casserole to cool for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy!
