Easy Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole Recipe
Hashbrown breakfast casserole is a hearty and satisfying dish that is perfect for mornings. It combines crispy potatoes, eggs, cheese, and savory ingredients into one baked meal. This recipe is simple, comforting, and ideal for feeding a crowd.
It works well for weekend brunch, holidays, or make ahead breakfasts. The golden top with gooey cheese makes every bite irresistible. With a few pantry staples, you can have a warm and filling dish ready to serve.
Ingredients Needed
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Frozen hashbrowns | 4 cups | 480 |
| Eggs | 8 large | 560 |
| Milk | 1 cup | 103 |
| Cheddar cheese | 2 cups | 800 |
| Breakfast sausage | 1 pound | 960 |
| Onion (chopped) | 1 medium | 44 |
| Bell pepper (chopped) | 1 medium | 24 |
| Salt and pepper | To taste | — |
Step by Step Preparation
Cook the sausage
Brown the sausage in a skillet with onions and peppers until fully cooked.
Prepare the base
Spread thawed hashbrowns evenly into a greased baking dish.
Mix the eggs
In a bowl, whisk eggs with milk, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Layer the filling
Add the cooked sausage mixture over the hashbrowns, then sprinkle with cheese.
Pour the eggs
Evenly pour the egg mixture over the layers in the baking dish.
Bake
Bake at 350°F for 40 to 45 minutes until the eggs are set and the top is golden.
Tips for customizing the recipe
You can replace sausage with bacon, ham, or keep it vegetarian with mushrooms and spinach. Try mixing in different cheeses such as mozzarella, pepper jack, or Swiss for variety. A pinch of paprika or hot sauce gives the casserole a gentle kick.
For a lighter version, use turkey sausage and reduced fat cheese. Adding zucchini, broccoli, or kale boosts nutrition without changing the taste much. You can even prepare it the night before and bake in the morning for convenience.
Nutritional Information
A serving of hashbrown breakfast casserole is about 350 to 400 calories. Eggs provide protein, while hashbrowns and sausage make it filling and satisfying. Cheese adds calcium and creaminess to balance the dish.
To reduce calories, use low fat milk and lean meats. Extra vegetables will increase vitamins and fiber without adding many calories. It is a versatile recipe that can fit into most meal plans.
Serving Suggestion
Serve this casserole hot with fresh fruit or a simple green salad on the side. A dollop of salsa or sour cream on top adds extra flavor. Toast or biscuits make a great pairing for a bigger breakfast spread.
It is a wonderful dish for brunch buffets, holiday mornings, or weekend family breakfasts. Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions for color before serving. Leftovers can be enjoyed for quick weekday meals.
How to store and keep fresh
Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat individual slices in the microwave or in the oven at 325°F until warmed through. The oven keeps the texture firmer and the cheese gooey.
For longer storage, freeze portions for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Always reheat until hot all the way through for best taste and safety.
Conclusion
Hashbrown breakfast casserole is a comforting and easy dish for any morning. With eggs, potatoes, sausage, and cheese baked together, it delivers a complete meal in every bite. It is simple, customizable, and always a hit with family or guests.
You can prepare it ahead, add your favorite ingredients, and enjoy it warm from the oven. It makes breakfast stress free and satisfying at the same time. Once tried, this casserole will become a go to recipe for gatherings and busy mornings.
FAQs
Q1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, assemble it the night before, refrigerate, and bake in the morning.
Q2. Do I need to thaw the hashbrowns first?
Yes, thawing helps them cook evenly and prevents excess moisture.
Q3. Can I freeze leftover casserole?
Yes, freeze in portions for up to two months and reheat when needed.
