If you’re looking for a hearty, crowd-pleasing breakfast that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Sausage Breakfast Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. It combines savory breakfast sausage, crispy hash browns, fluffy eggs, and melty cheddar cheese all baked into one irresistible dish. Whether it’s a weekend family brunch or a special holiday morning, this casserole offers comfort, flavor, and simplicity all in one pan, making it a true favorite to have in your recipe collection.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Sausage Breakfast Casserole Recipe plays a crucial role in delivering that perfect balance of taste and texture. From the salty richness of the sausage to the creamy eggs and sharp cheddar, these simple staples come together beautifully to create a meal everyone will love.
- 1 pound breakfast sausage: Use flavorful sausage for a savory punch that anchors the dish.
- 3 cups frozen shredded hash browns: These add a crispy, hearty base and soak up all the delicious flavors.
- 8 large eggs: Eggs provide the fluffy, custardy texture essential to any great casserole.
- 2 cups whole milk: Milk keeps the casserole moist and tender during baking.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Balances flavors and enhances every ingredient.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle bite without overpowering the dish.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar melts to creamy perfection, bringing richness and color.
How to Make Sausage Breakfast Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Sausage
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat and cooking the breakfast sausage until it’s nicely browned and crumbly. This step unlocks the sausage’s deep, savory flavors and provides texture contrast. Remember to drain any excess fat so your casserole isn’t greasy but still wonderfully moist.
Step 2: Whisk the Egg Mixture
In a big bowl, whisk together eggs, whole milk, salt, and black pepper until the mixture is smooth and homogenous. This combination ensures your casserole sets perfectly with a creamy, luscious consistency that holds everything together beautifully.
Step 3: Prepare the Baking Dish
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking, then spread the frozen shredded hash browns evenly across the bottom. This layer serves as a crispy and golden foundation that adds a wonderful texture underneath all those delicious toppings.
Step 4: Layer the Sausage and Cheese
Spread the cooked sausage evenly over the hash browns, then sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top. This layered technique guarantees each bite is bursting with cheesy, savory goodness.
Step 5: Pour the Egg Mixture
Slowly pour the whisked egg mixture over everything in the dish, making sure to cover the sausage and cheese evenly. This step is key to binding the ingredients into that perfect breakfast casserole texture.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden
Bake the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 45 to 50 minutes. The result should be a center that’s fully set and a beautiful golden top, signaling that your Sausage Breakfast Casserole Recipe is ready to wow your taste buds.
Step 7: Let It Rest
Once out of the oven, allow your casserole to rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This resting time helps everything firm up slightly, making serving easier and flavors more pronounced.
How to Serve Sausage Breakfast Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives adds a vibrant touch of color and fresh flavor that balances the richness of the casserole wonderfully. A dollop of sour cream or a few slices of ripe avocado can elevate the dish with creamy freshness.
Side Dishes
Serve your sausage breakfast casserole alongside fresh fruit salad for a refreshing contrast or warm buttermilk biscuits to soak up every bit of cheesy, eggy goodness. A side of crispy bacon or grilled tomatoes also pairs beautifully to round out the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive brunch, serve the casserole in individual ramekins or a cast-iron skillet to showcase rustic charm. You can even prepare mini casserole portions in muffin tins for an easy grab-and-go breakfast that’s fun and adorable.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your casserole, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep well for up to 3 to 4 days, making for easy breakfast or snack options throughout the week.
Freezing
This Sausage Breakfast Casserole Recipe freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and foil or place in a freezer-safe container, then freeze for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat your leftover casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to maintain that delightful texture. If you’re in a hurry, microwave slices on medium power until hot, adding a minute or two as needed.
FAQs
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?
Absolutely! You can shred fresh potatoes and dry them well before using. Keep in mind they might add a slightly different texture and may take a little longer to cook through.
Is this casserole suitable for making ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole the night before, cover, and refrigerate it. Then bake fresh in the morning, which makes busy days so much easier and just as tasty.
Can I substitute cheddar cheese with another type?
Definitely! Swiss, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack are fantastic alternatives that will bring their own unique flavor to your casserole.
What if I want to add vegetables?
Adding diced bell peppers, onions, or spinach can give more color and nutrition. Just sauté them briefly before layering to avoid extra moisture.
How do I make this recipe gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free, as long as your sausage and other ingredients don’t contain added gluten. Always check labels if you’re serving someone with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.
Final Thoughts
This Sausage Breakfast Casserole Recipe truly brings together comfort, flavor, and ease like no other breakfast dish. Perfect for sharing with loved ones or enjoying as a satisfying meal any day, it’s sure to become a go-to favorite. Give it a try soon and watch the smiles around your table grow with every delicious bite.
Print
Sausage Breakfast Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Breakfast Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A hearty and comforting Sausage Breakfast Casserole featuring seasoned breakfast sausage, crispy hash browns, fluffy eggs, and melted cheddar cheese baked to golden perfection. Ideal for a weekend brunch or easy family breakfast, this casserole combines simple ingredients and straightforward preparation for a delicious breakfast dish that serves 12.
Ingredients
Sausage Mixture
- 1 pound breakfast sausage
Base
- 3 cups frozen shredded hash browns
Egg Mixture
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Topping
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage until it is browned and crumbled. Drain excess fat and set the cooked sausage aside.
- Prepare the Egg Mixture: In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, salt, and black pepper until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking. Spread the frozen shredded hash browns evenly across the bottom of the dish.
- Assemble the Casserole: Evenly distribute the cooked sausage over the layer of hash browns. Then sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the sausage layer.
- Add the Egg Mixture: Carefully pour the egg mixture evenly over all the ingredients in the baking dish, ensuring it gets into all the layers.
- Bake the Casserole: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the assembled casserole in the oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden brown.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This allows it to firm up for easier serving.
Notes
- You can substitute turkey sausage for a leaner option.
- For a vegetarian version, replace sausage with sautéed mushrooms or a plant-based sausage.
- Ensure hash browns are thawed slightly if your oven doesn’t cook evenly for best results.
- Try adding chopped onions, bell peppers, or herbs to customize flavor.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the microwave or oven.
