Hash brown breakfast casserole is a delicious and hearty dish that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or prepping ahead for busy mornings. This savory casserole combines crispy hash browns, flavorful sausage, fluffy eggs, and gooey melted cheese, creating a satisfying breakfast that’s both filling and flavorful. Ideal for brunch gatherings, holiday mornings, or a family breakfast, this casserole is easy to assemble and can be customized with your favorite add-ins like bell peppers, onions, or spinach. With its crispy golden top and creamy interior, hash brown breakfast casserole is sure to become a favorite at your breakfast table.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb breakfast sausage (pork or turkey)
- 1 bag (30 oz) frozen shredded hash browns, thawed
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
- Cook the Sausage:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage, breaking it apart with a spatula, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat and set the sausage aside.
- Sauté Vegetables:
- In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and red bell pepper. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until softened. Remove from heat.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- In a large bowl, combine the thawed hash browns, cooked sausage, sautéed vegetables, and 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix well, then spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- Prepare the Egg Mixture:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika until well combined. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the hash brown mixture in the baking dish.
- Add Cheese and Bake:
- Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is set and the top is golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley. Cut into squares and serve warm.
Hash brown breakfast casserole is a versatile and comforting dish that makes mornings easier and more enjoyable. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or looking for a make-ahead breakfast option, this casserole is sure to please everyone at the table with its rich flavors and satisfying texture.
