Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole Recipe: A Hearty Start to Your Day
Looking for a filling and delicious breakfast to kick off your morning? This Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole Recipe is the ultimate comfort food, combining crispy hash browns, savory sausage, and melted cheese all baked together into one perfect dish. Ideal for brunches, holiday mornings, or meal prep, let’s dive into this easy-to-follow recipe!
Ingredients for Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole
This recipe serves 6-8 people and is packed with flavorful, hearty ingredients.
For the Casserole:
- 1 (32-ounce) package frozen shredded hash browns, thawed
- 1 pound breakfast sausage, cooked and crumbled
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 10 large eggs
- 1 cup (240 ml) milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups (8 ounces) shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup (4 ounces) shredded mozzarella cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray.
2. Prepare the Hash Browns
- Spread the thawed hash browns evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- Drizzle lightly with olive oil or melted butter for added crispiness.
3. Cook the Sausage and Vegetables
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage until browned and crumbled. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté the chopped onion and diced red bell pepper until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Mix the Egg Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
5. Assemble the Casserole
- Sprinkle the cooked sausage evenly over the hash browns in the baking dish.
- Layer the sautéed vegetables on top of the sausage.
- Pour the egg mixture over the sausage and vegetables, ensuring everything is coated.
- Top with shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake the Casserole
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the casserole is set and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
7. Cool and Serve
- Let the casserole cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy!
Why You’ll Love This Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole
- Easy to Make: Minimal prep and a simple assembly make this recipe perfect for any morning.
- Customizable: Add your favorite vegetables or swap the sausage for bacon or ham.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it the night before and bake in the morning.
- Feeds a Crowd: Perfect for large families or gatherings.
Tips for Perfect Breakfast Casserole
Thaw and Drain Hash Browns
Thawed hash browns ensure they cook evenly. If they seem wet, pat them dry with a paper towel to prevent sogginess.
Use Fresh Cheese
Shred your own cheese for the best melting texture. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the creaminess.
Season to Taste
Adjust the salt, pepper, and spices to suit your preferences. Add a pinch of cayenne for a little heat!
Let It Rest
Allow the casserole to cool slightly before slicing to make serving easier and prevent it from falling apart.
Variations and Serving Ideas
Vegetarian Option
- Skip the sausage and load the casserole with vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, and zucchini.
Meat Alternatives
- Substitute sausage with cooked bacon, diced ham, or ground turkey for a different flavor profile.
Cheese Combinations
- Experiment with cheeses like pepper jack, gouda, or Swiss for a unique twist.
Serve With:
- Fresh fruit or a simple side salad to balance the richness of the casserole.
- A dollop of sour cream or salsa for extra flavor.
FAQs About Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole
1. Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole the night before, cover, and refrigerate. Bake it in the morning for a fresh, hot breakfast.
2. Can I Freeze the Casserole?
Absolutely. Bake the casserole first, let it cool, and freeze in individual portions. Reheat in the oven or microwave when ready to eat.
3. How Long Does It Stay Fresh?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for the best texture.
A Perfect Breakfast for Any Occasion
This Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole is a true crowd-pleaser. With its crispy hash browns, savory sausage, and gooey melted cheese, it’s a dish that everyone will love. Whether it’s for a special brunch or a simple family breakfast, this casserole is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
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Try it today and enjoy the hearty flavors in every bite!
