Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole Recipe

This Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole is the ultimate easy, make-ahead breakfast that brings together all your favorite morning flavors in one hearty dish. Perfect for feeding a crowd, meal prepping, or a cozy weekend brunch, this casserole is packed with crispy hashbrowns, savory sausage, gooey cheese, and fresh veggies. Plus, it’s incredibly simple to throw together—just mix, bake, and enjoy!

this Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Make & Meal Prep Friendly

• Requires minimal prep—just cook the sausage, mix ingredients, and bake
• Can be assembled the night before and baked fresh in the morning
• Freezer-friendly for easy weekday breakfasts

Delicious Flavor & Texture

• Crispy hashbrowns on the bottom with a rich, cheesy top
• A perfect balance of savory sausage, creamy eggs, and crunchy veggies
• The Italian seasoning adds a subtle depth of flavor

Customizable & Diet-Friendly

• Gluten-Free (as long as your hashbrowns are gluten-free)
• Can be made vegetarian by swapping sausage for plant-based alternatives
• Easy to modify with different cheeses, meats, or extra veggies

Ingredients & Substitutions

Ingredient List

• 1 lb ground sausage
• 20 oz shredded hashbrowns, thawed
• 1/4 cup white onion, diced
• 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
• 1/2 green bell pepper, diced
• 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
• 8 large eggs
• 1 12-oz can evaporated milk
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
• 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
• Cooking spray

Notes on Quality

For the best flavor, use high-quality breakfast sausage and freshly shredded cheese. Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can make it less melty. If using frozen hashbrowns, make sure they’re completely thawed and patted dry to prevent excess moisture.

Possible Substitutions

• Meat: Swap sausage for cooked bacon, ham, or turkey sausage
• Cheese: Try mozzarella, pepper jack, or Swiss for a different flavor profile
• Dairy-Free: Use unsweetened almond or oat milk and dairy-free cheese
• Veggies: Add mushrooms, spinach, or jalapeños for extra flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

• Preheat & Prepare – Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray
• Cook the Sausage – In a skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground sausage, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess grease
• Mix the Base – In a large bowl, combine the cooked sausage, hashbrowns, diced onions, bell peppers, and 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheese. Spread evenly into the prepared baking dish
• Whisk the Egg Mixture – In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, evaporated milk, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning until fully combined
• Assemble – Pour the egg mixture evenly over the casserole. Top with the remaining shredded cheese
• Bake – Bake for 55 to 65 minutes, or until the center is set and a knife inserted in the middle comes out clean

• Cool & Serve – Let the casserole sit for about 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm

Expert Tips & Tricks

Best Practices

• Let the casserole cool slightly before slicing to help it hold its shape
• Use a glass or ceramic baking dish for even cooking
• If making ahead, cover and refrigerate overnight before baking

Common Mistakes

• Using frozen hashbrowns without thawing can lead to a soggy casserole
• Overmixing the eggs can create too many air bubbles, causing an uneven texture
• Skipping the grease-draining step can make the casserole too oily

Time-Saving Tips

• Cook the sausage and chop the veggies the night before
• Assemble everything ahead of time and store in the fridge overnight
• Bake and freeze individual portions for quick breakfasts throughout the week

Serving Suggestions

Pairings

Serve this casserole with a fresh fruit salad, avocado toast, or a light green salad for balance. If you’re looking for more breakfast ideas, try these Heart-Shaped Grilled Cheese Sandwiches or this Classic French Toast for a sweet and savory combo

Presentation Ideas

Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color. Serve in a cast-iron skillet or a rustic baking dish for a cozy, homemade feel

Beverage Pairings

This dish pairs well with fresh orange juice, a hot cup of coffee, or even a light mimosa for a special brunch occasion. If you love elegant breakfast dishes, check out this French Omelette with Fines Herbes

Storage & Reheating

Leftover Storage

• Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days
• Freeze slices in a single layer before transferring to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months

Reheating Methods

• Oven: Bake at 350°F for 15 minutes until warmed through
• Microwave: Heat individual portions for 1-2 minutes on medium power
• Stovetop: Reheat slices in a covered skillet over low heat until warmed

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make This Casserole the Night Before?

Yes! Assemble everything, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Bake in the morning as directed

What If My Casserole is Too Dry?

This can happen if overbaked. Make sure to check for doneness at the 55-minute mark

How Do I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?

Skip the sausage and add extra veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach

Variations & Customizations

Dietary Adaptations

• Gluten-Free: Ensure your hashbrowns are labeled gluten-free
• Dairy-Free: Swap cheese for a dairy-free alternative and use unsweetened almond milk

Flavor Twists

• Add a pinch of smoked paprika for a deeper, smoky flavor
• Use Monterey Jack or feta cheese for a unique twist
• Swap sausage for chorizo for a spicy kick

Seasonal/Holiday Versions

• Add diced ham and Swiss for a holiday brunch version
• Mix in sautéed kale or roasted sweet potatoes for a cozy fall twist

Conclusion

This hashbrown breakfast casserole is an easy, satisfying, and crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for busy mornings, special brunches, or meal prepping. With simple ingredients and endless customization options, it’s a must-try recipe. Give it a go and let me know how it turns out in the comments!

For more breakfast inspiration, follow me on Pinterest: Cooking with Callie on Pinterest

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