The Perfect Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole: A Hearty Start

Hashbrown breakfast casserole is the ideal dish for busy mornings, weekend brunches, or holiday breakfasts.

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• Mac and Cheese Casserole

This comforting casserole combines crispy hashbrowns, savory sausage, eggs, and cheese to create a meal that will keep you energized throughout the day. Here’s a detailed recipe for a delicious hashbrown breakfast casserole, along with some frequently asked questions to help you perfect this dish.

hashbrown breakfast casserolePhoto byThe Foodie Fix

Ingredients

For the casserole:

• 1 package (30 ounces) frozen shredded hashbrowns, thawed
• 1 pound breakfast sausage (or bacon, diced)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 large eggs
• 1 cup milk (whole, skim, or a dairy-free alternative)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

For the topping (optional):

• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet, cook the breakfast sausage over medium heat until browned and cooked through. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the sausage to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess fat. If using bacon, cook until crispy and set aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
4. Prepare the Egg Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, black pepper, paprika, and dried thyme until well combined.
5. Combine Ingredients: Add the thawed hashbrowns, cooked sausage, sautéed vegetables, and shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese to the egg mixture. Stir until all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
6. Assemble the Casserole: Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the optional topping of shredded cheddar cheese over the top for extra cheesiness.
7. Bake the Casserole: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown. To check for doneness, insert a knife into the center of the casserole—if it comes out clean, it’s ready.
8. Garnish and Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

FAQs

Can I make hashbrown breakfast casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the point of baking. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, uncover and bake as directed, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if needed to ensure it's heated through.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Of course! While cheddar and mozzarella are classic choices, you can experiment with different types of cheese to suit your taste. Try using Monterey Jack, Swiss, or even a spicy pepper jack for a bit of heat.

What can I use as a substitute for breakfast sausage?

If you prefer a different protein or have dietary restrictions, you can use cooked and crumbled bacon, diced ham, or even a plant-based sausage alternative. You can also omit the meat altogether for a vegetarian version and add more vegetables instead.

Can I add other vegetables to the casserole?

Definitely! Adding vegetables is a great way to boost the nutritional value of the dish. Consider adding cooked and drained spinach, mushrooms, zucchini, or tomatoes to the mixture. Just make sure to sauté any additional vegetables to reduce their moisture content before adding them to the casserole.

How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. Individual portions can be reheated in the microwave.

Can I freeze hashbrown breakfast casserole?

Yes, you can freeze the baked casserole for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. To reheat, thaw the casserole in the refrigerator overnight and then bake at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

Conclusion

Hashbrown breakfast casserole is a versatile and beloved dish that brings comfort and joy to your morning routine. With its combination of savory sausage, vegetables, and creamy eggs, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you're preparing it for a special occasion or simply for a family breakfast, this casserole is sure to impress. Happy cooking!