Description
This Sausage & Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole is a hearty and comforting dish perfect for a weekend brunch or a make-ahead breakfast. It combines savory breakfast sausage, crispy hash browns, sautéed onions and peppers, and a cheesy egg mixture baked to golden perfection. Easy to prepare and packed with flavor, this casserole serves eight and makes a satisfying start to your day.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb breakfast sausage (mild or spicy, depending on your preference)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced (optional)
- 1 (30 oz) bag frozen hash browns, thawed
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 8 large eggs
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp paprika (optional)
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or butter to prevent sticking during baking.
- Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage, breaking it into small pieces with a spatula. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, then remove from the pan and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: Using the same skillet, sauté the diced onion and bell pepper (if using) until softened, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Prepare Egg Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and paprika until well combined.
- Assemble the Casserole: Spread the thawed hash browns evenly in the prepared baking dish. Layer the cooked sausage evenly on top, followed by the sautéed onions and peppers. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the entire casserole, then sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the eggs are fully set and the cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Rest and Garnish: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
- You can substitute breakfast sausage with turkey sausage or a vegetarian sausage alternative for different dietary needs.
- The bell pepper is optional but adds a nice sweetness and color to the casserole.
- Allow the casserole to rest after baking to help it set and make slicing easier.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- For a spicier version, use spicy sausage or add some crushed red pepper flakes to the egg mixture.
