There is something irresistibly comforting about a hearty, cheesy breakfast casserole that brings everyone together around the table. This Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole Recipe combines savory pork sausage, golden crispy hash browns, creamy eggs, and plenty of cheddar cheese to create a warm, satisfying dish perfect for lazy weekend mornings or special occasions. The beauty of this casserole lies in its simple ingredients and hands-off prep time, delivering a dish that’s as delicious as it is effortless. I promise once you try this recipe, it’ll become your go-to for breakfast gatherings and joyful family brunches alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole Recipe is in how straightforward the ingredients are, yet how beautifully they work together to create incredible flavor and texture. Each component plays a crucial role, from the savory sausage adding richness, to the hash browns offering that perfectly crispy base, and the Bisquick giving the casserole the right lightness and binding.
- 1 lb pork sausage: Use a good-quality sausage for a rich and flavorful base that’s juicy and savory.
- 1 Tbsp dried minced onion flakes: Adds a gentle, sweet onion flavor that blends seamlessly with the sausage.
- 2½ cups frozen cubed hash browns: Choose cubed hash browns to ensure even cooking and delightful crispness.
- 5 large eggs: Eggs provide the creamy binder that holds everything together beautifully.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a wonderful tang and a golden, melty top layer.
- 1¾ cups milk: Milk adds moisture and helps create a tender, custard-like texture in the casserole.
- 1 cup Bisquick: This versatile mix gives the casserole structure without weighing it down.
- ¼ tsp salt: Enhances the flavors and balances the cheese and sausage.
- ¼ tsp pepper: Just a hint of pepper adds a gentle kick that rounds out the dish perfectly.
How to Make Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Sausage and Hash Browns
Start by browning your pork sausage along with the dried minced onions in a large skillet over medium-high heat. This step releases the delicious sausage fat and caramelizes the onions, building a flavorful foundation. Once the sausage is crumbly and cooked through, stir in the frozen cubed hash browns. Cook everything for another 5 to 7 minutes until the potatoes achieve a light golden crust and the sausage is no longer pink. Drain the mixture on paper towels to avoid excess grease and spread it evenly into a well-greased 13- x 9-inch baking dish. Don’t forget to sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top right away – this creates a melty, savory layer that you’ll love.
Step 2: Whisk and Pour the Egg Mixture
In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, Bisquick, salt, and pepper. This mixture is what gives your casserole a soft and fluffy texture with just the right amount of tenderness. Pour the Bisquick mixture evenly over the sausage and hash brown layers in the baking dish. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and refrigerate it overnight or for at least 8 hours. This resting period lets the flavors meld and helps everything set together, so you get a beautiful slice when baked.
Step 3: Prepare to Bake
When you’re ready to bake, take the casserole out of the refrigerator to bring it closer to room temperature. Preheat your oven to 350ºF so it’s perfectly hot and ready to go. This step ensures even cooking and helps the casserole bake through without drying out.
Step 4: Bake Until Golden and Set
Bake the casserole covered with foil for 45 minutes, allowing the egg mixture to puff up and the cheese to melt into heavenly goodness. Then, remove the foil and continue baking uncovered for another 10 to 15 minutes. This final stage crisps up the top and helps any excess moisture evaporate. When a wooden pick inserted into the center comes out clean, your Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole Recipe is perfectly baked and ready to impress. Let it stand for 5 minutes before serving to make slicing easier and improve the texture.
How to Serve Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your serving game, add a sprinkle of fresh chopped chives or green onions on top – these bring a fresh burst of color and a mild oniony flavor that balances the richness. A dollop of sour cream or some sliced avocado on the side adds freshness and creaminess that complements the hearty layers beautifully.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit salad or a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette. The juicy fruits or crisp greens cut through the rich, cheesy flavors perfectly, creating a well-rounded meal that satisfies all cravings. A hot cup of black coffee or freshly squeezed orange juice makes the breakfast experience complete.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to wow guests? Serve this Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole Recipe straight from the baking dish for a casual, cozy vibe or slice it into individual squares and plate with a side of roasted veggies for a brunch party. For a fun twist, top each serving with a fried or poached egg – the runny yolk will blend into every bite and add luxurious richness.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, simply cover the casserole tightly with plastic wrap or foil and store it in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for up to 3 days and maintains its wonderful flavor and texture when properly cooled.
Freezing
This casserole freezes beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil or place portions in airtight freezer containers. It will keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge to ensure even reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a preheated oven at 350ºF for about 15 to 20 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions, but reheating in the oven helps keep the casserole’s texture more appealing, avoiding sogginess.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese in the Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole Recipe?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar gives a classic flavor, feel free to experiment with Monterey Jack, mozzarella for meltiness, or even pepper jack for a spicy kick. Each cheese adds a unique twist.
Is it possible to make this casserole vegetarian?
Yes! Simply replace the pork sausage with plant-based sausage or a medley of seasoned vegetables like mushrooms and bell peppers. It will still be delicious and hearty.
Can I prepare the casserole entirely on the day I want to serve it?
Definitely. If you’re short on time, you can prepare and bake it the same day, but keep in mind that the overnight rest improves texture and flavor development.
What can I substitute for Bisquick in this recipe?
You can use an equal amount of all-purpose flour combined with 1½ teaspoons of baking powder and a pinch of salt to mimic Bisquick’s leavening properties if you don’t have it on hand.
Can I add vegetables to the Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole Recipe?
Yes! Adding sautéed onions, bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms enhances both nutrition and flavor. Just cook them well beforehand to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.
Final Thoughts
This Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that brings warmth, comfort, and flavor to any breakfast or brunch table. Its simple ingredients and satisfying textures make it a trusty favorite you’ll return to again and again. Don’t hesitate to make this delicious casserole a regular part of your mornings — your family and friends will thank you for it!
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Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes (plus 8 hours refrigeration overnight)
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
This hearty Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole is perfect for a satisfying morning meal, combining savory pork sausage, crispy hash browns, and gooey cheddar cheese baked together with eggs and Bisquick to create a delicious and filling dish that can be prepped the night before and baked fresh in the morning.
Ingredients
Sausage Mixture
- 1 lb pork sausage
- 1 Tbsp dried minced onion flakes
- 2½ cups frozen cubed hash browns
Casserole Base
- 5 large eggs
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1¾ cups milk
- 1 cup Bisquick
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp pepper
Instructions
- Cook the Sausage and Hash Browns: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the pork sausage and dried minced onion flakes for about 5 minutes or until the meat crumbles. Then stir in the frozen cubed hash browns and continue cooking for 5 to 7 minutes until the sausage is no longer pink and the potatoes are lightly browned. Drain this mixture on paper towels to remove excess grease, then spoon it into a greased 13- x 9-inch baking dish and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
- Prepare the Egg Mixture: In a separate bowl, whisk together the 5 large eggs, 1¾ cups milk, 1 cup Bisquick, ¼ tsp salt, and ¼ tsp pepper until fully combined. Pour this mixture evenly over the sausage, hash browns, and cheese in the baking dish. Cover with aluminum foil and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the Bisquick to hydrate.
- Preheat the Oven: When ready to bake, remove the casserole from the refrigerator and preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC).
- Bake the Casserole: Place the covered casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes. Then remove the foil and continue baking uncovered for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, or until a wooden pick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating the casserole is fully cooked through. Take the casserole out of the oven and let it stand for 5 minutes before serving to set.
Notes
- For an even richer flavor, use sharp cheddar cheese or a blend of cheeses.
- You can prepare the casserole the night before and bake it fresh in the morning for a convenient breakfast.
- Make sure to drain the sausage and hash brown mixture well to avoid a soggy casserole.
- Substitute Bisquick with your favorite pancake or baking mix if desired, but consistency might vary slightly.
- For a lower fat version, use turkey sausage and reduced-fat cheese and milk.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Breakfast Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
