Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole
This Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole transforms simple ingredients into a hearty, crowd-pleasing meal that's perfect for everything from lazy Sunday mornings to holiday brunches. The golden, crispy hash browns form a perfect foundation for fluffy eggs and melted cheese, creating a comfort food masterpiece that's both satisfying and versatile.
Prep Time 20 minutes mins
Cook Time 50 minutes mins
Resting Time 5 minutes mins
Total Time 1 hour hr 15 minutes mins
Course Breakfast, Brunch
Cuisine American
Servings 12 servings
Calories 320 kcal
9x13-inch Baking Dish
Skillet
Mixing Bowls
Whisk
Hash Brown Base
- 30 oz frozen shredded hash browns thawed
- 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
Filling
- 1 pound breakfast sausage cooked and crumbled
- 1 medium onion finely diced
- 1 red bell pepper diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
Egg Mixture
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese divided
- 1 tsp dried herbs thyme, rosemary, or Italian seasoning
- salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Optional Add-ins
- chopped spinach, mushrooms, jalapeños, or green onions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
Press the thawed hash browns into the bottom of the dish, creating an even layer. Drizzle with olive oil or melted butter, then season with salt and pepper.
Bake the hash brown base for 15-20 minutes until the edges begin to turn golden.
While the hash browns are pre-baking, cook your breakfast sausage in a skillet over medium heat until browned. Remove from heat and drain excess fat.
In the same pan, sauté the diced onions and bell peppers until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds more until fragrant.
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and dried herbs until well combined. Season with salt and pepper. For extra fluffiness, whisk vigorously for about 2 minutes.
Sprinkle half the cheese over the pre-baked hash browns. Distribute the cooked sausage and vegetable mixture evenly on top.
Pour the egg mixture over everything, ensuring it seeps down between the layers. Top with the remaining cheese.
Bake the casserole uncovered for 30-35 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden brown. A knife inserted in the center should come out clean.
Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
This casserole can be assembled the night before and refrigerated. Allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking.
For a vegetarian version, omit the meat and add extra vegetables.
You can use a blend of cheeses like Monterey Jack, Gruyère, or pepper jack for variation.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze individual portions for up to 2 months.
Calories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 18gProtein: 15gFat: 22gSodium: 480mgFiber: 2g
Keyword breakfast casserole, hash brown casserole, egg casserole, brunch recipe