Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This breakfast casserole is a one-dish wonder that combines all your favorite breakfast ingredients in one pan. With layers of crispy hashbrowns, savory sausage, and melty cheddar cheese, every bite offers a satisfying blend of textures and flavors. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make and can even be prepped the night before, so you can pop it in the oven the next morning for a hassle-free breakfast. Whether you’re serving it to a crowd or enjoying it with your family, this recipe is sure to become a new breakfast favorite.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

20 ounces shredded hash browns, thawed
1 pound ground beef 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
8 eggs
12 ounces evaporated milk (1 can, or 1 ⅓ cups milk)
½ teaspoon Italian seasoning or your favorite herbs and spices (optional)
½ teaspoon Kosher salt or to taste
¼ teaspoon black pepper

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (if baking immediately). Grease a 9×13 inch pan or a 3-quart baking dish or spray with cooking spray.
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the sausage, breaking it up with a spoon until no pink remains. Drain excess fat.
In the prepared baking dish, layer the hashbrowns, cooked sausage, onions, bell peppers, and 1 ½ cups of shredded cheese. Gently mix the ingredients together and spread evenly in the pan.
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, evaporated milk, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning (if using) until well combined.
Pour the egg mixture over the hashbrown mixture in the pan and sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheese on top.
Cover the dish with foil and refrigerate overnight if desired, or bake immediately.
Bake uncovered for 55-65 minutes, or until the casserole is fully cooked through and golden brown on top.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 8 servings
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 55-65 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 10 minutes to 1 hour 20 minutes (including optional refrigerating overnight)

Variations

Vegetarian Option: Replace the sausage with vegetarian sausage or a combination of sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and additional veggies like zucchini.
Spicy: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes to give your casserole a spicy kick.
Cheese Variety: Feel free to swap the cheddar for a different cheese like mozzarella, pepper jack, or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile.
Breakfast Sausage: If you prefer a milder flavor, use breakfast sausage instead of ground beef sausage.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating: Reheat individual servings in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes, or reheat the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I make this breakfast casserole ahead of time?

Yes, this casserole can be prepared the night before. Simply follow the recipe, cover the dish with foil, and refrigerate it overnight. In the morning, bake it as directed.

Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, this casserole can be frozen. After baking, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.

Can I use frozen hashbrowns for this recipe?

Yes, frozen hashbrowns work just fine! Make sure to thaw them before adding them to the casserole.

What type of sausage should I use?

You can use any type of cooked sausage you prefer. Breakfast sausage or spicy sausage are both great options, but ground beef sausage is also a tasty choice.

Can I add more vegetables to this casserole?

Absolutely! Feel free to add mushrooms, spinach, or any other veggies you like to make the casserole even more colorful and nutritious.

Can I use regular milk instead of evaporated milk?

Yes, you can substitute regular milk for evaporated milk. However, evaporated milk provides a slightly richer, creamier texture.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

To add some heat, try incorporating diced jalapeños, hot sauce, or a pinch of chili flakes into the egg mixture before baking.

How do I know when the casserole is done?

The casserole is done when it is golden brown on top, and a knife or toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. If it’s still jiggly or wet, bake it for a few more minutes.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a sharp gouda for a different flavor.

Can I make this recipe without meat?

Yes, for a vegetarian version, you can skip the sausage and use more vegetables or a plant-based sausage substitute.

Conclusion

This Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole is an easy, versatile, and delicious breakfast option that the whole family will love. With crispy hashbrowns, savory sausage, and a cheesy, egg-filled base, it’s the ultimate comfort food. Whether you make it the night before or bake it fresh in the morning, this casserole is sure to be a hit at your breakfast table!