Sausage and Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole
Start your day off right with a hearty and delicious Sausage and Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole! This crowd-pleasing dish is perfect for weekend brunch or meal prep for the week ahead.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground breakfast sausage
- 1 package frozen hashbrowns
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 8 eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- In a large skillet, cook the sausage until browned. Add the onion and bell pepper and sauté until softened.
- In a 9×13 baking dish, layer the hashbrowns, sausage mixture, and 1 cup of cheese.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper. Pour over the casserole and top with the remaining cheese.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the eggs are set and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Let cool slightly before serving.
Popular questions:
- Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A: Yes, feel free to experiment with different types of cheese to suit your taste preferences. - Q: Can I use fresh hashbrowns instead of frozen?
A: Yes, you can use fresh hashbrowns, just be sure to cook them beforehand. - Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole the night before and bake it in the morning. - Q: Can I add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to customize the casserole with your favorite vegetables. - Q: How can I make this casserole lower in calories?
A: You can use turkey sausage and reduced-fat cheese to lower the calorie content. - Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: Yes, you can freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months. - Q: Can I use plant-based sausage for a vegetarian version?
A: Yes, you can substitute plant-based sausage for a vegetarian-friendly option. - Q: Can I add hot sauce or spices for extra flavor?
A: Feel free to spice up the casserole with your favorite hot sauce or seasoning blends. - Q: Can I use non-dairy milk in this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use almond milk, soy milk, or any other non-dairy milk alternative. - Q: How can I make this casserole gluten-free?
A: Ensure that your sausage and hashbrowns are gluten-free, and you can enjoy a gluten-free version of this casserole.
Helpful tips:
- Feel free to add in additional ingredients such as diced tomatoes or chopped spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.
- For a crispy top layer, broil the casserole for a few minutes after baking.
- You can use different types of sausage such as chicken or turkey for a lighter option.
- Serve with a side of fresh fruit or a green salad to balance out the richness of the casserole.
- If you’re short on time, you can use pre-cooked sausage patties instead of cooking ground sausage.
- Experiment with different types of cheese blends like pepper jack or mozzarella for a unique flavor profile.
- Add a dollop of sour cream or salsa on top when serving for a tasty twist.
- This casserole reheats well, making it a great option for meal prep or leftovers.
- For a Mexican-inspired twist, layer in some salsa, black beans, and corn along with the hashbrowns and sausage.
- You can sprinkle fresh herbs such as parsley or chives on top before serving for a pop of color and freshness.
Expert Secrets:
- For a creamier texture, you can add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the egg mixture before pouring over the casserole.
- To amp up the flavor, sauté some garlic along with the onions and bell peppers.
- For a spicier kick, add some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the sausage mixture.
- To make this casserole more filling, layer in some cooked and crumbled bacon along with the sausage.
- If you prefer a meatless option, you can omit the sausage and add in extra veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, or kale.
- To make this casserole even more indulgent, top with a drizzle of hollandaise sauce or serve with a side of avocado slices.
- For a festive touch, sprinkle some paprika or smoked paprika on top before baking for a smoky flavor.
- To cut down on prep time, you can use pre-shredded hashbrowns or frozen diced onions and peppers.
- For a low-carb version, substitute the hashbrowns with cauliflower rice or shredded zucchini.
- To add a savory umami flavor, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top along with the cheddar.