Wake Up Casserole Recipe

There’s something magical about a piping hot breakfast casserole wafting from the oven first thing in the morning—especially when it’s this Wake Up Casserole. It’s loaded with golden hash browns, savory sausage, and creamy eggs, all baked up with plenty of cheese to form the ultimate comfort food breakfast. The best part? It’s wonderfully simple, completely fuss-free, and can be prepped ahead, making it exactly what you want for busy weekdays or lazy brunches alike.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Frozen Shredded Hashbrowns: The foundation of the casserole, forming a hearty, golden base with a crisp bite when baked.
• Unsalted Melted Butter: Adds richness and helps the hashbrowns get perfectly toasty; unsalted lets you control the salt level.
• Bulk Breakfast Sausage: Brings a punch of savory, spiced flavor and meaty heartiness; you can use pork, chicken, or turkey sausage.
• Chopped Onion: Adds subtle sweetness and a gentle crunch when sautéed, boosting overall flavor.
• Minced Garlic: A must for that extra aromatic depth—don’t skip it!
• Large Eggs: The binder that holds the casserole together and gives it that classic breakfast vibe.
• Cottage Cheese: Delivers unexpected creaminess and keeps the texture fluffy and light.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese: For that gooey, melty, sharp flavor that makes every forkful irresistible.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning—add to your taste.
• Chopped Chives (for garnish): Fresh, bright, and colorful; adds a hint of oniony zing right at the end.

Tip: Feel free to play with the cheese or swap out the protein for a twist!

Variations

• Go Veggie: Skip the sausage and add sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for a colorful, vegetarian breakfast.
• Switch Up the Cheese: Try Monterey Jack, mozzarella, pepper jack, or even a sharp white cheddar for a fun cheese twist.
• Make it Spicy: Use hot sausage or toss in diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little morning heat.
• Lighter Option: Use turkey sausage, low-fat cottage cheese, or even egg whites for a lighter version.
• Add Greens: Stir in some baby kale, chopped fresh spinach, or arugula for extra color and nutrition.

How to Make the Wake Up Casserole

Step 1: Prep the Hashbrown Base

Preheat your oven to 375°F. Grab your favorite baking dish and give it a generous greasing—it really helps with easy serving later. Mix the frozen shredded hashbrowns with the melted butter, making sure every strand gets coated, then press the mixture evenly across the bottom of the dish.

Step 2: Sauté the Sausage and Aromatics

Set a skillet over medium-high heat and cook your breakfast sausage, breaking it up with a spoon as it browns. Add the chopped onion right into the pan to soften and caramelize alongside the sausage. Once everything’s nicely golden and fragrant, stir in the minced garlic for a quick 30-second sizzle (just to wake it up).

Step 3: Make the Egg Mixture

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, cottage cheese, shredded cheddar, and a good pinch of salt and pepper. Fold in the sausage mixture so everything’s well combined and evenly distributed—this keeps every bite loaded with flavor.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

Pour your egg mixture right over the hashbrown base, spreading it out evenly. Slide the casserole into the preheated oven and bake for about 1 hour, or until set in the middle and lightly golden on top. You’ll know it’s ready when it doesn’t jiggle in the center.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Once baked, sprinkle the casserole with freshly chopped chives for a bright pop of color and fresh flavor. Let it sit for a few minutes before slicing to help everything set—then serve up hearty squares and dig in!

How to Serve

Wake Up Casserole shines all on its own, but it also plays nicely as the centerpiece for a bigger breakfast spread.

Classic Breakfast Plate

Serve piping hot with a side of fresh fruit, a green salad, or crispy bacon if you like a meaty double-punch. A dollop of sour cream or salsa on the side adds a fresh kick.

Brunch Buffet

Slice into smaller squares for a brunch buffet with muffins, pastries, and a pitcher of orange juice or mimosas. The casserole holds its shape and stays tasty even at room temperature.

Wrap It Up

Stuff a warm tortilla with a square of casserole and a little hot sauce for a speedy breakfast burrito—perfect for a grab-and-go meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. The casserole reheats beautifully and keeps its texture, making mornings a breeze.

Freezing

This breakfast beauty freezes well! Cool the casserole completely, cut into portions, and wrap each piece tightly or use freezer containers. Freeze for up to three months for a make-ahead breakfast that’s ready whenever you are.

Reheating

For single servings, use the microwave—just a minute or two will do. If reheating a larger portion, cover with foil and bake in a 350°F oven until warmed through. Add an extra sprinkle of cheese before reheating for extra appeal.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

Wake Up Casserole might just become your new breakfast hero. It’s endlessly adaptable, wonderfully satisfying, and almost cooks itself. Whether you’re planning ahead for a packed week or just want a shareable dish to make the morning special, this casserole delivers every time. Give it a try, play around with the fillings, and discover just how delicious and easy breakfast can be!

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