Ingredients
- 1 pound ground sausage (pork, turkey, or plant-based)
- 4 cups hash browns (shredded or diced, frozen or homemade)
- 6 large eggs
- 1 ½ cups milk (whole, 2%, or plant-based alternative)
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
- ½ cup diced bell peppers (optional)
- ½ cup diced onions (optional)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika (optional, for added flavor)
- 2 tablespoons butter or oil (for cooking hash browns)
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or butter.
2. Cook the Sausage
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage until browned and crumbled. Drain any excess grease and set aside.
3. Prepare the Hash Browns
Heat butter or oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the hash browns and cook until lightly crisped. Set them aside to cool slightly.
4. Whisk the Egg Mixture
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and paprika until well combined.
5. Assemble the Casserole
- Spread the cooked hash browns evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- Layer the cooked sausage over the hash browns.
- Sprinkle the diced peppers, onions, or any other vegetables you’re using.
- Pour the egg mixture evenly over the top.
- Finish with a generous layer of shredded cheese.
6. Bake the Casserole
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is golden and bubbly. Check doneness by inserting a knife into the center; it should come out clean.
7. Let Rest and Serve
Allow the casserole to cool for 10 minutes before slicing into portions. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired and serve warm.
Notes
- Make-Ahead Option: Assemble the casserole the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Bake fresh in the morning.
- Vegetarian Version: Use plant-based sausage or omit the sausage entirely and load up on vegetables.
- Freezing Tips: Bake and cool the casserole, then freeze in individual portions for up to 2 months.
- Serving Ideas: Pair with fresh fruit, salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Breakfast/Brunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approx.)
- Calories: ~320 kcal
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 160mg
Keywords: Breakfast Casserole, Sausage and Hash Browns, Make-Ahead Breakfast, Comfort Food, Brunch Recipe