Description
This Sausage Breakfast Casserole is a hearty and delicious dish perfect for feeding a crowd at breakfast or brunch. Layers of seasoned breakfast sausage, crispy hash browns, creamy egg custard, and melted cheddar cheese bake together to create a comforting meal that’s easy to prepare and sure to please everyone at the table.
Ingredients
Scale
Sausage Layer
- 1 pound breakfast sausage
Base Layer
- 3 cups frozen shredded hash browns
Egg Mixture
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Topping
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage until it is browned and fully crumbled. This usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes. Once cooked, drain any excess grease and set the sausage aside.
- Prepare the Egg Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, salt, and black pepper until the mixture is smooth and fully combined, creating a rich custard base for the casserole.
- Assemble the Casserole: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. Spread the frozen shredded hash browns evenly on the bottom of the dish, forming the first layer.
- Add Sausage and Cheese: Evenly distribute the cooked sausage over the layer of hash browns. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the sausage to add flavor and gooey richness.
- Pour the Egg Mixture: Slowly pour the egg mixture over the layered ingredients, ensuring it covers the entire dish evenly for uniform cooking and flavor distribution.
- Bake the Casserole: Place the baking dish in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C). Bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the center is set and no longer jiggly and the top is golden brown.
- Rest Before Serving: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes. This allows it to set further and makes slicing easier. Serve warm.
Notes
- You can substitute the breakfast sausage with turkey sausage or a plant-based alternative for a lighter or vegetarian version.
- For extra flavor, consider adding chopped onions, bell peppers, or herbs to the sausage while cooking.
- If you prefer a lower-fat version, use reduced-fat milk and cheese.
- Make ahead option: Assemble the casserole the night before, cover, and refrigerate. Bake in the morning, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if chilled.
- Ensure the hash browns are fully thawed and drained of excess moisture to avoid a soggy casserole.
