Breakfast Casserole with Sausage and Hash Browns is a hearty, comforting dish that starts your day off right. Crispy hash browns, juicy sausage, melty cheese, and fluffy eggs all baked together make this casserole a true morning favorite. It’s the kind of meal that fills the kitchen with an amazing smell and has everyone asking for seconds.
I love making this casserole when I want to feed a crowd or just have an easy breakfast ready to go. The best part is how simple it is to put together—just mix your ingredients, pop it in the oven, and relax while it bakes. I usually add extra cheese on top because who doesn’t want a golden, bubbling cheesy crust first thing in the morning?
This casserole works great for weekend brunches or even as a make-ahead option for busy mornings. I find that letting it sit for a bit after baking helps the flavors come together nicely. It’s a warm, satisfying dish that feels like a big breakfast hug, and it’s always a hit whether I’m serving family or friends.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Hash Browns: Frozen shredded hash browns save time and create a nice, crispy texture. If you prefer, you can use fresh grated potatoes—just squeeze out excess moisture first to avoid sogginess.
Breakfast Sausage: This ingredient brings flavor and protein. You can swap with ground turkey or chicken sausage for a leaner option without losing much taste.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a nice tang, while mozzarella adds melty creaminess. Feel free to use any melty cheese you like, such as Monterey Jack or Colby.
Eggs and Milk: These bind everything together and make the casserole fluffy. For creamier results, swap milk with half-and-half or add a bit of sour cream.
Vegetables: Onion, red bell pepper, and garlic add flavor depth but are optional. You can swap them for green onions, mushrooms, or spinach for a personal touch.
How Do You Make Sure the Casserole Cooks Evenly and Doesn’t Get Soggy?
Getting a perfect texture takes a bit of attention. Here’s how I do it:
- Thaw and drain the hash browns well to remove excess moisture—this keeps the bottom from getting soggy.
- Cook the sausage fully and drain fat so the casserole isn’t greasy.
- Sauté vegetables first to soften and remove moisture before mixing them in.
- Whisk eggs and milk thoroughly to ensure even cooking and a light texture.
- Bake uncovered so steam escapes and the top gets golden and bubbly.
- Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes after baking; this helps it set and makes it easier to slice.
Following these tips helped me achieve a breakfast casserole with crispy edges and a tender, fully cooked center every time.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13 inch baking dish – perfect size for even cooking and easy serving.
- Large skillet – great for browning sausage and sautéing veggies all in one pan.
- Mixing bowl – to whisk eggs and combine all ingredients smoothly.
- Whisk – helps blend eggs and milk without lumps.
- Spatula or wooden spoon – handy for stirring cooked sausage and veggies without scratching cookware.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap sausage for cooked bacon or ham for a smoky twist.
- Add chopped spinach or kale for a pop of color and extra nutrients.
- Use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for a little spicy kick.
- Stir in diced jalapeños or green chilies if you like a bit of heat.
Breakfast Casserole Sausage Hash Brown
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 (30 oz) package frozen shredded hash browns, thawed
- 1 lb ground breakfast sausage
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped onion (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
- Cooking spray or butter (for greasing the baking dish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and roughly 40-45 minutes to bake. After baking, allow 5-10 minutes of cooling time before serving. So in total, expect to spend about an hour from start to table.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep and Cook the Sausage:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground breakfast sausage until browned and fully cooked. Use a spoon to break it into small pieces as it cooks. Drain off any excess grease.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion, red bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, until the veggies are soft and fragrant. Remove from heat.
3. Mix the Egg Base:
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper until fully combined and smooth.
4. Combine Ingredients:
Add the thawed hash browns, sausage mixture, and half of the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses into the egg mixture. Gently stir everything together to evenly mix.
5. Assemble and Bake:
Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar and mozzarella evenly over the top. Bake uncovered for 40-45 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is golden and bubbly.
6. Cool and Garnish:
Once done, take the casserole out of the oven and let it cool for 5-10 minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving for a pop of color and fresh flavor.
Enjoy your warm, cheesy, and savory Breakfast Casserole with Sausage and Hash Browns!
Can I Use Frozen Hash Browns Straight from the Bag?
It’s best to thaw the hash browns first and squeeze out any excess moisture to prevent a soggy casserole. Thaw them overnight in the fridge or quickly in the microwave before mixing.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate overnight. When ready, bake it a few extra minutes to ensure it’s heated through.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Can I Substitute the Sausage?
Yes! You can swap breakfast sausage for cooked bacon, ham, or even a plant-based sausage substitute depending on your preference.
