Rise and shine with the ultimate Best Breakfast Casserole (Hash Browns & Eggs), a scrumptious blend of crispy hash browns, savory sausage, and gooey cheese, all harmonized with perfectly cooked eggs. This dish is sure to become your go-to morning masterpiece!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Family Favorite: With its rich, savory flavors, this casserole is sure to please everyone from picky eaters to gourmet aficionados.
- Convenience: It’s all about layering and baking, making it perfect for busy mornings when you want something special.
- Versatility: Easily customizable to fit different taste preferences and dietary needs with simple swaps and additions.
- Make Ahead Wonder: Prep it the night before and just pop it in the oven in the morning for hassle-free brunch gatherings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Best Breakfast Casserole (Hash Browns & Eggs) is as straightforward as it is satisfying. Each ingredient works in harmony to create a dish that is both satisfying and packed with flavor.
- Frozen hash brown potatoes: These provide a crispy, golden base for your casserole when baked.
- Pork sausage: Adds a savory depth to the dish that elevates the breakfast experience.
- Onion: Introduces a subtle aromatic sweetness that balances the savory notes.
- Eggs: The star of the show; they bind everything together while adding richness.
- Shredded Cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully, imparting a creamy texture and cheesy delight.
Variations
This casserole welcomes your personal flair and is easy to modify, so don’t hesitate to add your spin based on what’s available in your pantry or to meet dietary needs.
- Vegetarian Swap: Substitute the sausage with a plant-based alternative and add bell peppers for an extra pop of color and flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Mix in chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to give your breakfast a fiery twist.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheese like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a unique flavor profile.
How to Make Best Breakfast Casserole (Hash Browns & Eggs)
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Gather all of your ingredients to have them ready to go. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8-inch square baking pan. This will ensure that your casserole doesn’t stick, and the cleanup is a breeze. Spread the thawed hash browns evenly across the pan for a crisp base.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage and Onion
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the pork sausage and diced onion together until the sausage is golden brown and crumbled, about 10 minutes. Don’t forget to drain any excess fat to keep your casserole from becoming too oily.
Step 3: Mix and Layer
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Pour this mixture over the hash browns and sprinkle with half of the Cheddar cheese. Add the cooked sausage and onion on top and then cover with the remaining cheese. Cover your pan with foil to lock in moisture during baking.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Place the covered casserole in the oven and bake for 1 hour. After covering it, bake for an additional 10 minutes until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow it to rest for 5 minutes before serving, so it sets beautifully.
Pro Tips for Making Best Breakfast Casserole (Hash Browns & Eggs)
- Hash Brown Crispiness: Ensure the hash browns are completely thawed to achieve a perfect crispy layer that holds up under the ingredients.
- Cheese Melting Magic: Use freshly grated cheese as it melts smoother and more evenly compared to pre-shredded varieties.
- Batch Cooking: Double the recipe and use a larger pan for gatherings; this casserole is a crowd-pleaser and reheats wonderfully.
- Egg Mixture Extras: Add a teaspoon of Dijon mustard to the egg mixture for a subtle tang that complements the cheesy richness.
How to Serve Best Breakfast Casserole (Hash Browns & Eggs)
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness, elevating both the appearance and flavor of your casserole. For a bit of zing, consider a light dusting of smoked paprika.
Side Dishes
Complement this hearty breakfast casserole with simple sides like a fresh fruit salad or a citrusy arugula salad. For a bigger brunch spread, add a platter of buttery croissants or crispy bacon.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve individual pieces on bright, vibrant plates to make the colors of the casserole and its garnishes pop. Cut into squares or slices, and layer them onto a wooden board for a rustic, family-style presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This ensures the casserole remains moist and flavorful when reheated.
Freezing
To freeze, wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. This casserole can be frozen for up to 3 months, making it a fantastic meal prep option.
Reheating
For best results, thaw frozen portions overnight in the fridge, then reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warm through. Alternately, heat in the microwave for a quick bite.
FAQs
-
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?
Yes, you can grate fresh potatoes. Just be sure to squeeze out excess moisture before adding them to the dish, or they may release too much liquid during baking.
-
Is it possible to make this casserole vegan?
Absolutely! Use plant-based sausage and cheese, and replace the eggs with a tofu scramble or a prepared egg replacer to enjoy a vegan version.
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What can I substitute for pork sausage?
Chicken sausage, turkey sausage, or even vegetarian crumbles work wonderfully if you want a lighter or meat-free option.
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How can I make this casserole gluten-free?
The recipe is naturally gluten-free, but always check the labels on your sausage and cheese to ensure there are no added gluten-containing fillers.
Final Thoughts
There you have it, the Best Breakfast Casserole (Hash Browns & Eggs) — a perfect blend of ease, flavor, and satisfaction rolled into one delicious dish. It’s a beloved staple that’s sure to brighten your mornings and make every breakfast a delightful experience. Don’t wait, gather your ingredients and bake your way to breakfast bliss!
PrintBest Breakfast Casserole (Hash Browns & Eggs) Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 1 hr 20 mins
- Total Time: 1 hr 40 mins
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This hearty breakfast casserole combines crispy hash browns, savory sausage, melted Cheddar cheese, and a flavorful egg mixture, all baked to perfection. It’s an ideal make-ahead dish perfect for weekend brunches or feeding a crowd, offering a comforting and satisfying start to the day.
Ingredients
Hash Browns
- 1 (2 pound) package frozen hash brown potatoes, thawed
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 pound pork sausage
- 1 small onion, diced
Egg Mixture
- 5 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and ground black pepper to taste
Cheddar Cheese
- 12 ounces shredded Cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Gather all ingredients. Prepare your workspace by assembling all ingredients needed for the casserole.
- Preheat the oven. Set your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) and grease an 8-inch square baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Layer hash browns. Spread the thawed hash brown potatoes evenly in the prepared dish, creating a uniform base.
- Cook sausage and onion. Place the sausage and diced onion in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook, stirring frequently, until the sausage is browned and crumbled, about 10 minutes. Drain excess fat.
- Make egg mixture. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until thoroughly combined.
- Assemble casserole. Pour the egg mixture over the hash browns in the dish. Sprinkle with half of the shredded Cheddar cheese.
- Add sausage and cheese. Spread the cooked sausage and onion mixture evenly over the eggs, then sprinkle with the remaining Cheddar cheese.
- Bake covered. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour.
- Finish baking. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and the top is golden.
- Rest before serving. Let the casserole stand for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
- For a spicier version, add chopped peppers or hot sauce to the egg mixture.
- You can prepare this casserole a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
- Optional toppings include chopped chives, sliced green onions, or additional cheese.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 1/6 of casserole)
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 900 mg
- Fat: 30 g
- Saturated Fat: 15 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 180 mg
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