Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?

Yes, you can use fresh potatoes. Shred them, rinse under cold water, and pat very dry with paper towels to remove excess starch and moisture. Cook them in a skillet with a bit of oil until just softened before adding to your casserole for the best texture.

How do I know when the casserole is done baking?

The casserole is done when the center is set and doesn't jiggle when gently shaken. A knife inserted in the center should come out clean without any wet egg mixture. The top should be golden brown and slightly puffed.

Can I make this casserole vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply omit the meat and add extra vegetables like sautéed bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, and spinach. You might want to add a little extra seasoning to compensate for the flavor that sausage provides. Plant-based sausage works well too.

Why did my casserole turn out watery?

This typically happens if the hash browns weren't thawed and dried properly. Make sure to thaw completely and even pat them with paper towels if they seem wet. Also, draining all fat from the sausage helps prevent excess moisture in the final dish.

Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole Recipe

Description

This Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole is the perfect make-ahead or weekend breakfast. Loaded with flavorful sausage, crispy hash browns, and melty cheddar cheese, it’s a hearty and delicious dish the whole family will love. Easy to prepare, this casserole is perfect for a family brunch, holiday mornings, or even meal prepping for the week!

Ingredients

Units Scale

Sausage and Hash Browns
1 pound bulk breakfast sausage (or remove the casing from links)
12–18 ounces frozen hash browns, thawed (about half a package)
Cheese and Eggs
1 1/2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
6 large eggs
1/2 cup milk
Seasoning
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1/4 teaspoon ground mustard

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Instructions

Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F. This ensures the casserole bakes evenly and the flavors meld together beautifully.
Cook the Sausage
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage until browned and no longer pink. Use a spatula to break it into bite-sized pieces as it cooks. Once done, drain the excess fat and set aside.
Layer the Hash Browns and Sausage
Take a 9×13-inch baking dish and spray it with nonstick cooking spray. Evenly spread the thawed hash browns across the bottom of the dish. Next, sprinkle the cooked sausage over the hash browns in an even layer.
Add Cheese
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the sausage layer. Be sure to distribute it evenly so that every bite is cheesy.
Prepare the Egg Mixture
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and ground mustard. Pour this egg mixture evenly over the layered ingredients in the baking dish.
Bake the Casserole
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 40 minutes. After 40 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 20-30 minutes, or until the casserole is set in the center. To check, insert a knife in the center—it should come out clean.
Serve
Let the casserole cool slightly, then slice and serve hot. Enjoy your hearty breakfast!

Notes

You can substitute the sausage with bacon or ham for a different twist.
Sharp cheddar adds a bold flavor, but you can use mild or medium cheddar, or even swap it for another type of cheese such as Monterey Jack or pepper jack.
Grate the cheese fresh for the best melting results and creamier texture.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 2 months. Simply reheat before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 250
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 450mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 12g
Cholesterol: 130mg