Sometimes, nothing beats the comforting embrace of a hearty breakfast casserole. The Sausage Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole is a quintessential morning dish that blends the richness of sausage, the crispness of hash browns, and the creamy textures of cheese and eggs into a satisfying feast. Whether you’re preparing for a lazy weekend brunch or feeding a crowd for a special occasion, this casserole hits all the right notes.

What sets this dish apart is its melted cheddar, golden-brown hash browns, and flavorful sausage that creates a layered texture you can’t resist. With just a handful of ingredients, this casserole combines those essential breakfast flavors, making it perfect for families and gatherings. It’s straightforward to prepare, making it an excellent choice for less experienced cooks as well.

Why you’ll love this

It’s a complete meal in one dish, easy to prepare.
Great for feeding a crowd, perfect for special occasions.
Leftovers are just as delicious, making it a smart choice for meal prep.
Freeze well for a quick breakfast on busy days.
Minimal cleanup with just one baking dish to wash!

“Tastes incredible and so simple to make.”

How this recipe comes together

Making this casserole is all about layering flavors and textures. You start by cooking the sausage, then combine it with hash browns, veggies, cheese, and a whipped egg mixture. Once baked, it forms a crispy top while the inside remains soft and fluffy. It’s a straightforward process that yields a delicious and satisfying dish.

What you’ll need

1 lb sausage
1 package (30 oz) frozen hash browns
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup chopped onion
1/2 cup chopped bell pepper
12 large eggs
1 cup milk
Salt and pepper to taste

Ingredient notes & swaps

Sausage: Ground pork sausage is traditional, but turkey or chicken sausage works too.
Cheese: While cheddar is classic, feel free to use pepper jack for extra heat or mozzarella for a different texture.
Vegetables: You can easily swap in or add any other veggies you enjoy like spinach or mushrooms.
Hash Browns: If you prefer fresh potatoes, you can shred them, but frozen is more convenient here.

Directions to follow

This recipe is as simple as it is delicious. Here’s how to make it:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a skillet, cook the sausage over medium heat until browned; drain excess fat.
In a large bowl, combine the hash browns, cooked sausage, onion, bell pepper, and half of the cheddar cheese.
In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper.
Pour the egg mixture over the hash brown mixture and stir to combine.
Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish and top with remaining cheddar cheese.
Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until set and golden brown on top.
Let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Pro Tip: For a crispier texture, consider broiling the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking.

Visual doneness cues: Look for the cheese to be bubbly and golden, while the edges should feel firm to the touch.

Helpful cooking tips

Use frozen hash browns for ease; they provide the best texture without needing any pre-cooking.
Chop vegetables finely to ensure they cook evenly throughout the casserole.
Let it rest after baking; this will help with serving and enhance flavors.
Customize spices: Add a pinch of garlic powder or paprika for extra flavor.

Best ways to enjoy it

Serve the casserole warm, perhaps with a side of fresh fruit or a dollop of sour cream. You could also pair it with a light greens salad for a balance of flavors. For added depth, sprinkle some sliced green onions or a dash of hot sauce on top before serving.

How to store & freeze

This casserole stores well in the fridge for about 3-4 days. Allow it to cool completely, then cover it tightly to prevent moisture loss. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to two months. Just make sure to let it defrost in the refrigerator before reheating.

Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours; reheat until steaming hot.

How to fix common issues

Dry Casserole: If your casserole turns out dry, make sure you have enough liquid in the egg mixture. Adding a bit more milk can help.
Bland Flavor: Enhance the seasoning; consider adding more salt or experimenting with herbs.
Soggy Hash Browns: To improve crispiness, ensure your hash browns are well-drained of ice before baking.
Overcooked Eggs: Keep an eye on the baking time; every oven is different.

Creative twists

Feel free to experiment with this base recipe! You can swap out the sausage for bacon or add other proteins like diced ham. Another option is to include vegetables like zucchini or broccoli for added nutrients and flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, why not throw in some fresh herbs like basil or cilantro?

Common questions

Can I make it ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the dish the night before, cover it tightly, and store it in the fridge. Just pop it in the oven in the morning, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if needed.

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh potatoes can be used; just shred them and rinse to remove excess starch. You’ll want to sauté them lightly before mixing with the other ingredients to ensure they cook through properly.

Can I add more vegetables?

Definitely! Bell peppers and onions are just the start. Fresh spinach, diced tomatoes, or even jalapeños can enhance the flavor and nutrition profile. Just keep in mind to adjust the overall proportions to maintain balance.

With this hearty and satisfying dish, any breakfast becomes a celebration. Whether you serve it at a weekend gathering, a festive brunch, or simply indulge in it yourself, the Sausage Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole is sure to become a beloved staple.

Sausage Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole

A hearty breakfast casserole combining sausage, hash browns, cheese, and eggs for a comforting morning dish that’s easy to make and perfect for feeding a crowd.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 50

Total Time 1 5

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Breakfast, Brunch

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 lb sausage Ground pork sausage; turkey or chicken sausage can be used as alternatives.
30 oz frozen hash browns Frozen is preferred for convenience.
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese Pepper jack for extra heat or mozzarella for a different texture can be used.
1/2 cup chopped onion Chop finely for even cooking.
1/2 cup chopped bell pepper Any color works; additional veggies can be included.
12 large eggs Whisked with milk for the egg mixture.
1 cup milk Whole milk for creaminess.
to taste Salt and pepper Adjust to personal preference.

Method

Preparation

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a skillet, cook the sausage over medium heat until browned; drain excess fat.
In a large bowl, combine the hash browns, cooked sausage, onion, bell pepper, and half of the cheddar cheese.
In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper.
Pour the egg mixture over the hash brown mixture and stir to combine.
Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish and top with remaining cheddar cheese.

Baking

Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until set and golden brown on top.
Let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

For a crispier texture, consider broiling the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes. Allowing it to rest after baking will help with serving and enhance flavors.