If you’re looking for a hearty, comforting dish that will win over any breakfast crowd, this Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole Recipe is an absolute game-changer. Packed with crispy hashbrowns, savory sausage, vibrant bell peppers, and gooey melted cheddar cheese all brought together with a creamy egg mixture, it’s a satisfying medley of flavors and textures that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether for a weekend brunch with loved ones or a make-ahead meal, this casserole delivers that perfect blend of indulgence and ease that makes mornings so much better.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole Recipe keeps it simple with ingredients that complement each other beautifully. Each component adds something important—texture, richness, or a pop of color—making the final dish vibrant and exciting without fuss.
- 20 ounces shredded hash browns (thawed): The golden, crispy foundation providing that classic breakfast crunch.
- 1 pound sausage (cooked, crumbled, and drained): Adds savory depth and a satisfying heartiness to every bite.
- ¼ cup finely diced onion: Brings a subtle sharpness and sweetness that balances the richness.
- ½ red bell pepper (diced): Offers color vibrancy and a gentle sweetness that wakes up the palate.
- ½ green bell pepper (diced): Adds a fresh, slightly grassy flavor to keep things lively.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided): Creamy and melty, this cheese pulls all the ingredients together with a deliciously gooey texture.
- 8 eggs: The binding agent that holds the casserole in a satisfyingly fluffy, golden structure.
- 12 ounces evaporated milk (or 1 â…“ cups regular milk): Enriches the eggs for a smooth, custardy consistency.
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional): Adds a hint of herbal warmth and complexity for an extra flavor boost.
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt (or to taste): Essential for enhancing all the natural flavors without overpowering them.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a touch of gentle heat to keep the palate interested.
How to Make Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Next, grease a 9-by-13-inch casserole dish thoroughly or give it a good spray with cooking spray. This step is key to preventing your delicious casserole from sticking and ensures easy serving later on.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage
Heat a large skillet over medium to medium-high heat and add your sausage. Brown it evenly while breaking it up with a spoon so it cooks through without clumps. Once the sausage is fully cooked and no pink remains, drain out the excess fat and set the sausage aside for assembling the casserole. This step builds the savory backbone of your dish.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
In your prepared casserole dish, combine the thawed hashbrowns, cooked sausage, diced onions, and both red and green bell peppers. Then sprinkle in 1½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese. Gently fold everything together to spread the ingredients evenly in the pan – the combination of colors and textures here will make your mouth water before even baking!
Step 4: Prepare the Egg Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, evaporated milk, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning if you’re using it. Whisk until everything is well blended and slightly frothy. This custardy mixture will soak into the hashbrowns, locking in the flavors and making the casserole luxuriously creamy.
Step 5: Combine and Top
Pour your prepared egg mixture evenly over the hashbrown and sausage blend in the casserole dish. Then sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese all over the top. This cheese topping will melt and brown beautifully in the oven, creating an irresistible golden crust.
Step 6: Refrigerate or Bake
Here’s where you can decide to make life easier: cover the casserole and refrigerate it overnight to bake fresh the next day, or bake it right away. If refrigerated, just remember to remove it about 30 minutes before baking so it reaches room temperature and bakes evenly.
Step 7: Bake the Casserole
Bake uncovered at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 55 to 65 minutes. The casserole is done when the eggs are fully set and the top is a gorgeous golden brown with a slight crisp. Let it sit a few minutes once out of the oven—this keeps every slice intact when you serve.
How to Serve Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate the dish visually and flavor-wise, sprinkle fresh chopped green onions or chives right before serving. A dollop of sour cream or a few slices of ripe avocado can add extra creaminess and brightness that contrasts wonderfully with the cheesy richness.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs beautifully with fresh fruit salad for a refreshing counterpoint or a light mixed green salad with a simple vinaigrette. For something heartier, try crispy bacon strips or a basket of warm buttermilk biscuits on the side to soak up every last bite.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re serving a crowd or want to make breakfast extra special, consider making individual portions in small ramekins or muffin tins. This way everyone gets a personal cheesy, sausage-studded delight, perfect for brunch gatherings or holiday mornings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole Recipe keeps wonderfully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 to 4 days. Simply cover well to maintain moisture and prevent fridge odors from sneaking in.
Freezing
For longer storage, you can freeze the casserole after baking and cooling completely. Wrap it tightly with foil over plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to keep the texture intact.
Reheating
To reheat, place individual servings in the microwave for about 1 to 2 minutes or until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat the whole casserole in a 350-degree oven covered with foil for 20 to 25 minutes, removing foil for the last 5 minutes to refresh the golden top.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of sausage?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken work well as leaner alternatives. Just season them with your favorite herbs and spices before cooking to keep the same delicious savory notes.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Omit the sausage and add extra vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini. You can also add plant-based sausage for similar flavor and texture.
Can I prepare this Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole Recipe the night before?
Definitely. In fact, assembling it the night before and baking it in the morning often enhances the flavors, plus it makes busy mornings easier.
What type of cheese can I substitute for cheddar?
Cheddar works wonderfully, but feel free to try mozzarella for a milder melt, pepper jack for some kick, or a blend of your favorites to change things up.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as your sausage and other ingredients do not contain hidden gluten. Always check labels if needed.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly comforting about waking up to a warm, cheesy, flavor-packed dish like this Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole Recipe. It’s simple enough to toss together quickly yet impressive enough to make any morning feel special. Whether you’re feeding family, guests, or just treating yourself, this casserole is sure to become a treasured staple in your breakfast repertoire. Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!
Print
Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Breakfast Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This hearty Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole is the perfect make-ahead meal for busy mornings. Combining crispy hashbrowns, savory sausage, fresh bell peppers, and a rich custard of eggs and evaporated milk, it bakes to golden perfection topped with melted cheddar cheese. Serve it warm for a satisfying breakfast that feeds a crowd and can be enjoyed reheated throughout the week.
Ingredients
Hashbrown Casserole Base
- 20 ounces shredded hash browns (thawed)
- 1 pound sausage (your choice, cooked, crumbled, and drained)
- ¼ cup finely diced onion
- ½ red bell pepper (diced)
- ½ green bell pepper (diced)
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
Egg Mixture
- 8 large eggs
- 12 ounces evaporated milk (1 can, or about 1â…“ cups milk)
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt (or to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Cheese Topping
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare the Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish well or spray it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Cook the Sausage: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add your choice of sausage and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned thoroughly with no pink remaining. Drain excess fat and set the cooked sausage aside to cool slightly.
- Assemble the Casserole: In the prepared casserole dish, combine thawed hashbrowns, cooked sausage, diced onion, diced red and green bell peppers, and 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese. Use a spoon or spatula to gently mix these ingredients until evenly distributed, then spread the mixture evenly in the dish.
- Prepare the Egg Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, evaporated milk, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning (if using) until the mixture is uniformly combined and slightly frothy.
- Combine and Top: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the hashbrown and sausage mixture in the casserole dish. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese evenly across the top.
- Refrigerate or Bake: You have the option to cover the casserole and refrigerate it overnight for convenience. If refrigerated, let the casserole sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before baking. If you prefer to bake immediately, proceed without delay.
- Bake the Casserole: Place the uncovered dish into the preheated oven. Bake for 55 to 65 minutes, or until the eggs are fully set, and the casserole top turns a lovely golden brown. Remove from oven and allow it to cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Using thawed hashbrowns helps prevent excess water content, which can make the casserole soggy.
- Feel free to substitute the sausage with bacon or turkey sausage for variation.
- To make this dish vegetarian, omit the sausage and add extra vegetables such as mushrooms or spinach.
- Adding Italian seasoning is optional but adds a nice herbaceous flavor.
- Refrigerating overnight enhances the flavors and makes morning preparation easier.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
