Sausage Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole Delight

November 25, 2025October 8, 2025 by Chef Elliot

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

– 1 lb breakfast sausage (mild or spicy)

– 4 cups frozen hash browns, thawed

– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Vegetable Ingredients

– 1 red bell pepper, diced

– 1 small onion, diced

Egg & Seasoning Ingredients

– 6 large eggs

– 1 cup milk

– 1 teaspoon garlic powder

– 1 teaspoon onion powder

– Salt and pepper to taste

– Fresh parsley, for garnish

This dish starts with breakfast sausage. You can choose mild or spicy. I love the spicy version for added flavor. The next key ingredient is hash browns. Four cups of thawed hash browns make it hearty and filling.

Shredded cheddar cheese adds creaminess. One cup works perfectly. Then, we add vegetables for color and crunch. A diced red bell pepper and a diced small onion work well. They give a fresh taste.

Next comes the egg mixture. Six large eggs combine with one cup of milk. This forms the base. Adding garlic powder and onion powder brings out the flavors. Salt and pepper enhance everything.

Finally, we use fresh parsley for garnish. It adds a nice pop of color and freshness. Each ingredient plays a role in making this casserole a true delight.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is the first step for a perfect bake.

Cooking the Sausage

In a large skillet, cook the breakfast sausage over medium heat. Break it into small pieces as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess fat. This gives you a tasty base for your casserole.

Sautéing the Vegetables

Next, add diced onion and red bell pepper to the same skillet. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes until they soften. This step adds great flavor to your dish.

Mixing Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked sausage, sautéed onion, red bell pepper, thawed hash browns, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix it well to blend all the flavors together.

Preparing the Egg Mixture

In another bowl, whisk together 6 large eggs, 1 cup of milk, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, salt, and pepper. This mixture binds everything and adds richness.

Assembling and Baking

In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, layer the sausage and hash brown mixture evenly. Pour the egg mixture over the top to coat everything. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes. Look for a golden brown top and a set middle to know it’s ready.

Tips & Tricks

Perfecting Texture

To get the ideal crispy top, bake your casserole at 375°F (190°C). A hot oven helps the top brown nicely. You can use a mix of half cheddar and half a sharper cheese for added flavor. To ensure the inside sets well, let the casserole cool slightly before cutting. This helps keep the layers together. You can also use a fork to fluff the top lightly before serving, creating a beautiful texture.

Make-Ahead Preparation

You can prepare this casserole the night before. Just follow these steps: Cook the sausage and sauté the veggies as usual. Mix everything in the baking dish but do not bake it yet. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and store it in the fridge overnight. When you’re ready to bake, take it out and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Then, bake it as directed. This method saves time in the morning!

Serving Suggestions

To make your meal even better, serve the casserole with fresh fruit or a green salad. A dollop of sour cream on top adds a nice creaminess. You can also sprinkle extra parsley for color. If you want a bit of heat, serve it with hot sauce on the side. These simple sides and garnishes will elevate your breakfast experience!

Variations

Ingredient Substitutions

You can change the meat in this casserole easily. Try turkey sausage for a leaner option. If you like spice, chorizo adds a kick. Feel free to swap cheeses too. Gouda or Monterey Jack work well. For veggies, use spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini. Each choice adds a new twist to the flavor.

Dietary Adjustments

To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free hash browns. Ensure the sausage and other ingredients are gluten-free too. For a dairy-free version, substitute milk with almond or oat milk. Use a dairy-free cheese to keep it creamy. These changes help everyone enjoy this tasty meal.

Flavor Enhancements

Herbs and spices can elevate this casserole. Add fresh basil or thyme for a garden taste. You might also like a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat. Try smoked paprika for a deeper flavor. Mixing these in gives each bite a burst of taste.

Storage Info

Refrigeration Guidelines

After you enjoy your sausage hash brown breakfast casserole, store leftovers in the fridge. First, let it cool down to room temperature. Then, cover it with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh and safe to eat. Try to eat it within three to four days for the best taste.

Freezing Instructions

If you want to save some for later, freezing works well. Cut the casserole into portions. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. Be sure to label the bag with the date. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Then, reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warm.

Shelf Life

When stored correctly, the casserole lasts about three to four days in the fridge. In the freezer, it can stay good for up to three months. Always check for any signs of spoilage before eating.

FAQs

Can I use fresh hash browns instead of frozen?

Yes, you can use fresh hash browns. They will give a nice texture. You may need to cook them a bit first to reduce moisture. This helps prevent a soggy casserole. Fresh hash browns can be sautéed for about five minutes before mixing. This will enhance their flavor and crispiness in the dish.

How can I make this casserole spicier?

To add heat, use spicy sausage instead of mild. You can also add chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes. Both options will bring a bold kick to your casserole. Adjust the amount based on your spice level. If you want a smoky flavor, add smoked paprika. Don’t be afraid to experiment!

Is it possible to use egg substitutes?

Yes, you can use egg substitutes like flax eggs or silken tofu. For flax eggs, mix one tablespoon of ground flaxseed with three tablespoons of water. Let it sit for five minutes. For tofu, blend half a cup until smooth. This will keep the casserole rich and creamy without eggs.

This blog post offers a simple and tasty breakfast casserole recipe. We covered key ingredients like sausage, hash browns, and cheese, plus vegetables and spices that add flavor. I walked you through easy steps to prepare and bake your dish. Remember the tips for perfecting texture and ways to customize it to your liking. Finally, I shared the best ways to store leftovers for future meals. Enjoy making this dish, and share it with friends and family! It’s a fun way to start any da