Why You’ll Love This Sausage Hash Brown Casserole

Hey there, fellow food lovers! Are you craving a breakfast casserole that’s as comforting as it is delicious? Then look no further than this Ultimate Cheesy & Crispy Sausage Hash Brown Casserole! This isn’t your grandma’s casserole (unless your grandma is a culinary genius, in which case, kudos to her!). This recipe takes the classic hash brown casserole and kicks it up a notch with perfectly crispy edges, a luxuriously cheesy interior, and the irresistible savory punch of breakfast sausage.

Imagine waking up to the aroma of sizzling sausage and fluffy potatoes, then digging into a warm, cheesy slice that’s both satisfying and surprisingly easy to make. This casserole is perfect for brunch, a weekend breakfast, or even a comforting weeknight dinner. It’s the kind of dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table, from picky eaters to sophisticated palates. The incredible texture – crispy on the outside, soft and cheesy on the inside – is simply irresistible. You’ll love the convenience of using frozen hash browns, cutting down on prep time significantly. Get ready to experience a taste sensation that’s both nostalgic and incredibly modern! You’ll be surprised by how quickly this comes together, and even more surprised by how incredibly tasty it is!

What You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple, readily available ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to gather:

1 lb Breakfast Sausage: Choose your favorite – mild, spicy, or even Italian sausage will work wonderfully. The sausage provides that essential savory base to this dish.
4 cups Frozen Hash Browns: Frozen hash browns are a time-saver! Make sure they’re the kind that are already shredded, not the kind that come in patties.
6 Large Eggs: These bind the casserole together and add richness and protein.
2 cups Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar is classic, but feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Colby Jack. The more cheese, the merrier!
½ cup Milk: Milk adds moisture and helps create a creamy texture. Whole milk is recommended for the richest flavor, but you can use 2% or even skim milk if you prefer.
1 tsp Onion Powder: A little onion powder adds a subtle savory depth and complements the sausage beautifully. You can also add garlic powder for extra flavor!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s get cooking! This recipe is surprisingly straightforward, even for novice cooks.

Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish generously with butter or cooking spray. This will prevent sticking and ensure easy removal.
Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage until it’s fully cooked and browned. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain off any excess grease. Tip: For extra crispy sausage, cook it a little longer and make sure to get a good sear on it!
Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked sausage, frozen hash browns, eggs, cheddar cheese, milk, and onion powder. Mix thoroughly until everything is well combined. Try not to overmix, as this can make the casserole tough.
Bake: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the casserole is golden brown and heated through. To ensure even cooking, rotate the dish halfway through the baking time. Tip: If the top is browning too quickly, loosely tent it with foil for the last 15-20 minutes of baking.
Rest and Serve: Let the casserole rest for 10-15 minutes before cutting and serving. This allows it to set up a bit and makes it easier to slice without it falling apart. Serve warm and enjoy! It’s delicious on its own, or you can pair it with a side of fresh fruit or a simple salad.

Tips for Success

Here are a few tips to ensure your sausage hash brown casserole comes out perfectly every time:

Don’t overcrowd the pan: When cooking the sausage, make sure not to overcrowd the pan. This will prevent the sausage from browning properly and will result in soggy sausage. Cook in batches if necessary.
Don’t thaw the hash browns: Using frozen hash browns directly is key to maintaining that perfect texture. Thawing them will make them mushy.
Evenly distribute the cheese: Make sure the cheese is evenly distributed throughout the casserole for a consistent cheesy flavor in every bite.
Check for doneness: Use a toothpick or knife to check if the casserole is cooked through. It should be set and no longer jiggly in the center.
Let it rest: Allowing the casserole to rest before slicing prevents it from falling apart and helps maintain its shape.

Variations to Try

Feeling adventurous? Here are some fun variations to try:

Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the mixture for some extra heat.
Veggie Boost: Incorporate diced bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms into the mixture for added flavor and nutrients.
Different Cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a blend of cheeses.
Herb Infusion: Add fresh or dried herbs like parsley, chives, or thyme for a boost of freshness.
Vegetarian Version: Omit the sausage and add 1 cup of cooked and crumbled vegetarian sausage or sautéed vegetables like mushrooms and spinach.

Storing and Reheating

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can either microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, or reheat the entire casserole in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15-20 minutes, until heated through. Freezing is also an option; allow the casserole to cool completely before wrapping tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. It will keep frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat from frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then bake as directed, adding about 15-20 minutes to the baking time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh hash browns? While you can use fresh hash browns, they will require some extra preparation (shredding and potentially pre-cooking to remove excess moisture) and might result in a slightly different texture. Frozen hash browns are the most convenient option for this recipe.
Can I substitute the milk? You can substitute the milk with half-and-half, cream, or even buttermilk for a richer flavor. If using a non-dairy milk alternative, ensure it’s full-fat for the best results.
How long does the casserole last in the fridge? The casserole will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container. Make sure to refrigerate it promptly after it cools to prevent bacterial growth.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time? You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator overnight. Just add about 15-20 minutes to the baking time.
Is this casserole gluten-free? The basic recipe is naturally gluten-free, provided you use gluten-free sausage and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

The Final Word

This Ultimate Cheesy & Crispy Sausage Hash Brown Casserole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! Its simple ingredients, quick preparation, and unbelievably delicious flavor make it a perfect dish for any occasion. The combination of crispy hash browns, savory sausage, and melted cheddar cheese is simply irresistible. So, ditch the takeout menus and gather your ingredients. Give this recipe a try and experience the joy of a truly satisfying and comforting breakfast casserole. Let me know how yours turns out in the comments below – and don’t forget to rate the recipe! Happy cooking!

Sausage Hash Brown Casserole (Cheesy & Crispy!)

A cheesy and crispy casserole perfect for breakfast or brunch.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 45

Servings 6 servings

Calories 400 kcal

Equipment

9×13 inch baking dish Or similar sized oven-safe dish
Large skillet For cooking the sausage

Ingredients

Sausage & Hash Browns

1 lb Breakfast sausage Browned and crumbled
4 cups Frozen hash browns Thawing is optional

Egg & Cheese Mixture

6 Eggs Lightly beaten
2 cups Cheddar cheese Shredded
0.5 cup Milk
1 tsp Onion powder

Instructions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large skillet, cook the sausage (ing_1) over medium heat until browned and crumbled. Drain off any excess grease.
In a large bowl, combine the cooked sausage (ing_1), hash browns (ing_2), eggs (ing_3), cheddar cheese (ing_4), milk (ing_5), and onion powder (ing_6). Mix well to combine.
Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown and heated through.
Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!

Notes

For extra crispy edges, broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.