If you’re on the hunt for a breakfast dish that’s easy and delicious, this hash brown breakfast casserole is here to save the day. With layers of crispy hash browns, savory sausage, fluffy eggs, and melted cheese, this casserole has all the breakfast essentials in one tasty dish. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, prepping for holiday guests, or just want a make-ahead option for a busy morning, this recipe is for you.
Let’s dive right into the ingredients and simple steps to create this crowd-pleasing casserole.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything you’ll need for a 7×11 or 2-quart baking dish. Double the recipe if you’re feeding a larger crowd or using a bigger pan!
- 1/2 lb breakfast sausage (or 1 lb if you’re doubling the recipe)
- 6 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk or cream
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 3 cups frozen hash browns, thawed (shredded, cubed, or O’Brien style)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Cooking spray
Directions
Follow these simple steps to assemble and bake your hash brown breakfast casserole.
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature will ensure your casserole bakes evenly and has a nice golden top.
Spray your baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking and make for an easy cleanup later.
Step 2: Brown the Sausage
In a large skillet over medium heat, brown your breakfast sausage. Crumble the sausage as it cooks to get a nice, even texture throughout. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
Pro Tip: If you’re feeding a crowd, feel free to double the sausage. Just be sure to drain any excess grease before adding it to the casserole to keep things from getting too oily.
Step 3: Prepare the Egg Mixture
While the sausage is cooking, crack your eggs into a mixing bowl. Add in the milk (or cream for a richer texture), salt, and pepper.
Whisk everything together until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This egg mixture will bind all your ingredients and give the casserole its fluffy texture.
Step 4: Layer the Hash Browns
Spread the thawed hash browns evenly across the bottom of your prepared baking dish. This will form the crispy, hearty base of the casserole.
Tip: Use shredded, cubed, or O’Brien style hash browns based on your preference—each will add a slightly different texture. Shredded hash browns are more uniform, while cubed hash browns offer a chunkier bite.
Step 5: Add the Sausage and Cheese
Once the hash browns are in place, sprinkle your browned sausage over them. Make sure the sausage is spread evenly so every bite has a bit of that savory flavor.
Next, add the shredded cheese on top of the sausage layer. Instead of sprinkling it on top of the eggs, putting the cheese here ensures it melts throughout the casserole and gives each layer a bit of cheesy goodness.
Step 6: Pour Over the Egg Mixture
Slowly pour the egg mixture over the layers of hash browns, sausage, and cheese. Don’t worry if it doesn’t completely cover everything—the eggs will expand and puff up as they bake, binding the casserole together.
Overnight Tip: If you want to prepare the casserole the night before, cover it with plastic wrap at this stage and place it in the fridge. In the morning, you just need to pop it in the oven for a super-easy breakfast!
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Place the casserole in your preheated 350°F oven. If you’re baking it fresh, it should take about 40-45 minutes. If it’s been in the fridge overnight, add an extra 10 minutes to the baking time.
You’ll know it’s ready when the eggs have puffed up, the edges are golden brown, and the center is set (a toothpick should come out clean if inserted into the middle).
Step 8: Let It Cool and Serve
Once the casserole is done, let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving. This will allow everything to set, making it easier to slice and serve. Cut into squares, and enjoy!
Make It Your Own: Easy Variations
The beauty of this hash brown breakfast casserole is how easy it is to customize. Here are some fun variations to try:
– Veggie-Packed: Add in sautéed bell peppers, onions, or spinach to boost the veggie content.
– Bacon Lover’s: Swap the sausage for crumbled bacon or add a mix of both for extra flavor.
– Cheese Swap: Try pepper jack, mozzarella, or Swiss cheese to change up the flavor profile.
Instant Pot Version (If You’re Short on Time)
If you’re short on oven space or want to speed things up, you can make this casserole in an Instant Pot. Follow the same ingredient and layering steps, then cover with foil, and place on a trivet inside the Instant Pot with one cup of water. Cook on high pressure for 25 minutes and allow a natural release. This version may be softer than the oven-baked casserole but is still delicious and quick!
This hash brown breakfast casserole is a true lifesaver for anyone looking to serve a filling, tasty breakfast without all the fuss. It’s a perfect mix of flavors and textures that everyone will love, from the crispy hash brown base to the savory sausage and cheesy egg topping.
Give It a Try!
Enjoy a warm, golden hash brown breakfast casserole that’s a cozy, satisfying start to any morning. This dish begins with a layer of crispy, shredded hash browns, perfectly seasoned and baked until they form a slightly crunchy base. On top of that sits a mixture of fluffy, seasoned eggs, rich in flavor and blended with sharp cheddar cheese that melts into gooey perfection. Diced bell peppers, onions, and fresh spinach are sprinkled throughout, adding bursts of color and a touch of earthy freshness. Crumbled breakfast sausage (or bacon, if you prefer) is folded in, adding a savory, smoky depth that complements the vegetables and cheese.
The casserole is baked until the eggs are set and everything melds together into a soft, cohesive texture, with just enough crispy edges to add a satisfying crunch. Fresh chives or parsley are scattered over the top before serving, adding a final hit of color and flavor. Each warm, cheesy bite of this hash brown breakfast casserole combines hearty textures with savory, satisfying flavors that make it perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as leftovers for a few mornings afterward. It’s the ultimate comforting breakfast in a dish!
If you’re ready to bring this easy, crowd-pleasing casserole to your breakfast table, go ahead and try it out! Let us know in the comments how yours turned out and if you added any fun twists to the recipe. And don’t forget to share this post with friends who could use a simple yet impressive breakfast recipe!