Breakfast Casserole with Sausage and Hash Browns is a hearty and comforting dish that’s perfect for busy mornings or lazy weekends. It’s packed with crispy hash browns, savory sausage, melted cheese, and fluffy eggs all baked together into one delicious, warm casserole. The mix of textures—from the crunchy edges to the soft, cheesy center—makes every bite a little celebration of breakfast flavors.
I love making this casserole because it’s super easy to prepare ahead of time and then just pop in the oven when you’re ready. It always makes the kitchen smell incredible, and the kids (and adults!) can’t wait to dig in. One tip I like to share is to brown the sausage well before adding it in so you get that nice, rich flavor throughout the dish. It’s a total crowd-pleaser and perfect for feeding a group or having leftovers that taste great the next day.
When we serve this casserole, I usually pair it with some fresh fruit or a simple green salad to add a little brightness. It feels cozy and satisfying without being too heavy. It’s the kind of breakfast that makes you want to slow down, enjoy your morning, and maybe even sneak in a second helping. This casserole has become a go-to in my house whenever we’re looking for something delicious, filling, and fuss-free.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Frozen Shredded Hash Browns: These give the casserole a great crispy yet soft texture. If you can’t find shredded, you can use diced potatoes, but they may need a bit longer cooking time.
Breakfast Sausage: I prefer mild sausage for a balanced flavor. For a spicier kick, try Italian sausage or chorizo. For a vegetarian option, use plant-based sausage or sautéed mushrooms.
Eggs and Milk: These bind the casserole together. Use whole milk for creaminess, or swap with almond or oat milk for dairy-free versions, though texture may slightly differ.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar works best for its rich flavor. You can substitute with Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a cheese blend you love. For dairy-free, try vegan cheese options.
How Do You Get the Best Texture in a Breakfast Casserole?
The texture balance between crispy edges and soft, fluffy center is key. Here’s how:
- Thaw hash browns completely and pat dry to avoid excess water, which can make the casserole soggy.
- Cook and brown the sausage well to bring out flavor and reduce moisture.
- Sauté onions and peppers until soft but not mushy, to keep some texture.
- Whisk eggs thoroughly with milk for lighter, fluffier eggs.
- Bake uncovered so the top gets golden and slightly crispy.
- Let the casserole rest after baking to help it set and make cutting easier.
These steps help give you that perfect mix of creamy and crisp in every bite. I find taking time with browning the sausage really boosts the flavor and texture throughout.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13-inch casserole dish – perfect size for even baking and easy serving.
- Large skillet – great for browning sausage and sautéing veggies all in one pan.
- Mixing bowl – use it to whisk eggs and combine all ingredients smoothly.
- Whisk – helps beat eggs and milk into a light, even mixture.
- Spatula or wooden spoon – handy for stirring the sausage and veggies without scratching your pan.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap sausage for cooked bacon or diced ham for a different savory taste.
- Add diced mushrooms or spinach for extra veggies and a fresh twist.
- Try pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for a little spicy kick.
- Mix in chopped green onions or fresh herbs like parsley for more flavor brightness.
Breakfast Casserole with Sausage and Hash Browns
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 (30 oz) package frozen shredded hash browns, thawed
- 1 lb breakfast sausage, crumbled
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 small bell pepper, diced (red or green)
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp garlic powder (optional)
- Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Time Estimate:
This breakfast casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 45-50 minutes to bake. Allow an additional 5-10 minutes for resting after baking. In total, plan for about 1 hour from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Dish:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish to prevent sticking.
2. Cook Sausage and Vegetables:
In a medium skillet over medium heat, cook the crumbled sausage until browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat if needed. In the same skillet, add diced onion and bell pepper and sauté for 3-5 minutes until softened. Mix vegetables with the cooked sausage.
3. Mix Eggs and Other Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and garlic powder until smooth. Add the thawed hash browns, cooked sausage and vegetables, and 1½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese. Stir gently to combine everything evenly.
4. Assemble and Bake:
Pour the mixture into the prepared casserole dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese over the top. Bake uncovered for 45-50 minutes, or until the casserole is set and the top turns golden and bubbly.
5. Rest and Serve:
Once baked, remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes to set up for easier serving. Garnish with chopped parsley or chives if you like. Serve warm and enjoy a delicious, hearty breakfast!
Can I Use Fresh Potatoes Instead of Frozen Hash Browns?
Yes! You can dice fresh potatoes and parboil or sauté them until slightly tender before adding to the casserole. This helps ensure they cook fully and achieve a similar texture to frozen hash browns.
Can I Prepare This Breakfast Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole the night before, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready, bake it straight from the fridge—just add about 10 extra minutes to the baking time.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm gently in a preheated oven until heated through.
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Yes, swap regular milk for a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk, and use dairy-free cheese alternatives. The texture may differ slightly, but it will still be tasty!
