Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole

Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole is the ultimate dish for breakfast lovers! This hearty casserole combines crispy hash browns, savory sausage, fluffy eggs, and plenty of cheese, making it perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a family brunch or a holiday gathering. Its simplicity and delicious flavors make it a standout choice that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Complete Meal: This casserole has everything you need for breakfast in one dish, saving time on meal prep.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it the night before and bake it in the morning for an easy, stress-free start to your day.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of sausage, cheese, and bell peppers ensures every bite is bursting with flavor.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize with your favorite veggies or swap out sausage for bacon to suit your taste.
• Feeds a Crowd: Perfectly serves eight people, making it ideal for gatherings and family breakfasts.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this delicious Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole efficiently, you’ll need some essential tools.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×13 inch baking dish or 3 quart baking dish
• Large skillet
• Whisk
• Mixing bowls

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking Dish: A 9×13 inch baking dish is ideal for ensuring even cooking and allows enough space for all ingredients.
• Large Skillet: A large skillet makes browning the sausage easier and prevents overcrowding while cooking.
• Whisk: A whisk is crucial for thoroughly mixing the egg mixture, ensuring a light and fluffy texture.

Ingredients

For the Casserole Base

• 20 ounces shredded hash browns, thawed
• 1 pound ground pork sausage, cooked, crumbled, and drained
• ¼ cup finely diced onion
• ½ red bell pepper, diced
• ½ green bell pepper, diced
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided

For the Egg Mixture

• 8 eggs
• 12 ounces evaporated milk, or 1 ⅓ cups regular milk
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning, or your favorite herbs (optional)
• ½ teaspoon Kosher salt, or to taste
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

How to Make Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (if baking immediately). Grease your baking dish with oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cook the Sausage

Heat a large skillet over medium high heat.
1. Add the crumbled sausage to the pan.
2. Brown the sausage until no pink remains, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Drain any excess fat.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

In the greased baking dish:
1. Add the hashbrowns, cooked sausage, onions, red bell pepper, green bell pepper, and 1 ½ cups of shredded cheese.
2. Gently mix these ingredients together and spread them evenly in the pan.

Step 4: Prepare the Egg Mixture

In a large bowl:
1. Crack in the eggs.
2. Add in the evaporated milk, salt, pepper, and optional Italian seasoning.
3. Whisk until everything is well combined.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Pour the egg mixture over the hashbrown mixture in your baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.

Step 6: Bake It

Cover your casserole with foil if you’re refrigerating it overnight (remove from fridge 30 minutes before baking). If you’re baking immediately:
1. Bake uncovered in preheated oven for 55-65 minutes, or until cooked through.
2. Enjoy your delicious Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole hot!

How to Serve Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole

Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole is a versatile dish that can be served in many ways. Whether it’s for brunch, a holiday gathering, or a simple family breakfast, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal experience.

Individual Portions

• Serve each guest their own portion for a personal touch. This makes it easy to manage and allows everyone to enjoy the casserole fresh from the oven.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle chopped chives or parsley on top before serving. Fresh herbs add a pop of color and enhance the flavor of the casserole.

Accompanied by Salsa

• Offer salsa as a side condiment. The tangy flavor of salsa pairs perfectly with the richness of the casserole, adding an extra kick.

With Avocado Slices

• Serve slices of avocado alongside the casserole. The creamy texture complements the casserole well and adds healthy fats to your meal.

Drizzled with Hot Sauce

• For those who enjoy heat, provide hot sauce on the table. A few drops will bring out new flavors in every bite of your hashbrown breakfast casserole.

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How to Perfect Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole

Achieving the perfect hashbrown breakfast casserole requires attention to detail and some clever tips. Follow these guidelines for an impressive dish every time.

• Use Thawed Hashbrowns: Ensure that your hashbrowns are completely thawed before baking. This prevents excess moisture and helps maintain crispiness.
• Brown Your Sausage: Browning the sausage not only enhances flavor but also adds texture. Don’t rush this step; let it cook until golden brown.
• Mix Ingredients Thoroughly: When combining ingredients, mix them well to ensure even distribution of flavors throughout the casserole.
• Let it Rest Before Serving: Allowing the casserole to sit for a few minutes after baking helps it set up nicely, making it easier to cut into squares.

Best Side Dishes for Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole

Pairing side dishes with your hashbrown breakfast casserole can round out your meal beautifully. Here are some delightful options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and freshness to your plate, balancing out the richness of the casserole.
2. Greek Yogurt Parfaits: Layer Greek yogurt with granola and berries for a nutritious side that brings creaminess and crunch.
3. Crispy Bacon Strips: Serve crispy bacon on the side for those who love savory flavors; its crunch complements the soft texture of the casserole.
4. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad dressed in vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to heavier dishes like hashbrown breakfast casserole.
5. Buttery Croissants: Flaky croissants are always a hit at breakfast gatherings; they can be served warm for added enjoyment.
6. Coffee or Mimosas: Offering beverages like coffee or mimosas can enhance brunch vibes and make your gathering feel special.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making a Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole, there are a few common pitfalls that can affect your dish. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Using frozen hash browns directly: Always thaw your hash browns first. This ensures even cooking and prevents excess moisture in the casserole.
• Skipping the seasoning: Don’t forget to add salt and spices. Proper seasoning enhances the flavors and makes your casserole truly delicious.
• Not pre-cooking the sausage: Ensure your sausage is fully cooked before adding it to the dish. This avoids any issues with undercooked meat and improves flavor.
• Ignoring rest time: Allowing the casserole to sit after baking helps flavors meld together. Skipping this step can result in a less cohesive dish.
• Overcrowding the ingredients: Be careful not to pile too many ingredients on top of each other. Distribute them evenly for consistent cooking.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow the casserole to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole

• Freeze in an airtight container or wrap tightly in plastic wrap for up to 2 months.
• Label and date the container for easy identification.

Reheating Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake covered for about 20 minutes or until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat individual portions on high for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Heat slices in a skillet over medium heat until warmed throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions related to Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole:

Can I make Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble it the night before and refrigerate it overnight before baking.

What can I substitute for evaporated milk?

You can use light cream, regular milk, or non-dairy milk as alternatives.

Is Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole suitable for a crowd?

Absolutely! This recipe serves eight, making it perfect for gatherings or family breakfasts.

Can I customize my Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole?

Yes! Feel free to add vegetables or swap out meats based on your preferences.

Final Thoughts

The Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole is a delightful and versatile dish that caters to various tastes. Its combination of eggs, cheese, and savory ingredients creates a comforting meal ideal for any occasion. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different toppings or fillings to make it uniquely yours!