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Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole

Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole

This Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole is a one-dish wonder, perfect for holiday mornings or lazy Sunday brunches. It features a crispy hash brown base, a layer of fluffy eggs, savory breakfast sausage, and a generous blanket of melted cheddar cheese. It's an adaptable and easy-to-assemble meal that can even be prepared ahead or frozen.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Calories: 420
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 1 lb breakfast sausage
  • 6 large eggs
  • 2 cups milk (whole or 2% works best)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 (30 oz) package frozen hash browns, thawed
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
  • 1/2 cup diced onion (optional)

Equipment

  • 9x13 inch baking dish
  • Large skillet
  • Large bowl
  • Whisk
  • Spatula
  • Wire rack

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Prep Your Pan and Oven: First things first, get your oven preheating to 375°F (190°C). Take a moment to grease your 9x13-inch baking dish. A little butter or non-stick spray ensures every slice comes out cleanly.
  2. Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. You're looking for it to be nicely browned and cooked through. Once done, drain off any excess grease and set it aside.
  3. Whisk the Egg Mixture: In a large bowl, crack the 6 eggs. Give them a good whisk until the yolks and whites are fully combined. Pour in the milk, salt, and pepper, and whisk again until everything is smooth and incorporated.
  4. Combine Everything: To the bowl with the egg mixture, add your thawed hash browns, the cooked sausage, 1 1/2 cups of the shredded cheddar, and the diced onion if you're using it. Gently stir until everything is just combined.
  5. Assemble the Casserole: Pour the entire mixture into your prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it out into an even layer, making sure the goodies are distributed evenly. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheese over the top.
  6. Bake to Golden Perfection: Slide the dish into the preheated oven and bake, uncovered, for 45 to 50 minutes. You'll know it's done when the center is set (a knife inserted should come out clean) and the top is beautifully golden brown.
  7. Let It Rest: Let the casserole rest on a wire rack for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows it to set up completely, making for perfect, sturdy slices.

Notes

For the best results, ensure hash browns are fully thawed to avoid a runny casserole. Shredding your own cheese provides a creamier melt. Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes after baking for easier slicing. You can substitute sausage with bacon, ham, or chorizo, and cheddar with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack. The casserole can be assembled and refrigerated up to 24 hours in advance or frozen for up to 3 months either baked or unbaked.