- Sour cream
- Green onions, chopped
- Hot sauce
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven (If Baking Immediately)
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Cook the Sausage
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage until browned and crumbled (about 8–10 minutes).
- Remove excess grease, leaving about 1 tablespoon in the skillet.
- Add the diced onion and red bell pepper (if using) to the skillet and cook until softened (about 3–5 minutes).
3. Layer the Ingredients
- Spread the frozen hashbrowns evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Sprinkle the cooked sausage mixture over the hashbrowns.
- Top with shredded cheese, spreading it evenly.
4. Prepare the Egg Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
- Optional: Stir in smoked paprika or red pepper flakes for extra flavor.
- Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layered ingredients in the baking dish.
5. Make Ahead (Optional)
- Cover the assembled casserole tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate overnight (up to 24 hours).
- When ready to bake, remove the casserole from the fridge while the oven preheats.
6. Bake
- If baking immediately, place the uncovered casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 45–55 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden brown.
- If baking from chilled, increase the baking time by 5–10 minutes, as the casserole will be cold from the fridge.
7. Serve and Enjoy
- Let the casserole cool slightly before slicing.
- Garnish with sour cream, chopped green onions, or hot sauce, if desired.
- Enjoy every bite of this hearty, cheesy, and indulgent Sausage Hashbrown Casserole!
- Perfect as a standalone meal or paired with fresh fruit or a side salad for a complete breakfast or brunch.
Tips for Success
- Use Frozen Hashbrowns: No need to thaw them—they’ll cook perfectly in the oven.
- Add Veggies: Include diced mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini for extra nutrition.
- Experiment with Cheeses: Try Monterey Jack, Colby, or pepper jack for variety.
- Store Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave before serving.
Why This Recipe Works
This Make-Ahead Sausage Hashbrown Casserole combines the crispy texture of hashbrowns with the savory goodness of sausage and the creamy richness of cheese into a dish that’s both satisfying and versatile. The straightforward preparation ensures consistent results without requiring advanced cooking skills, while the customizable options allow you to tailor the recipe to your taste. Whether served as a standalone meal or customized with your favorite mix-ins, this recipe delivers big on taste and simplicity.
Conclusion: A Dish Everyone Will Love
Whether you’re craving something hearty and indulgent, looking for a way to simplify breakfast prep, or simply want to indulge in a homemade treat, this Make-Ahead Sausage Hashbrown Casserole is sure to delight. Its bold flavors, satisfying textures, and practical preparation make it a standout recipe that’s as versatile as it is delicious. Plus, its adaptability means you can tailor it to suit any occasion.
We’d love to see your creations! Tag us in your photos or share your favorite variations—your take on this casserole might just inspire others to try it too! 🍴✨
