Make-Ahead Sausage Hashbrown Casserole offers a delightful and savory start to any day. This casserole combines the comforting flavors of sausage, hashbrowns, and cheese, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and convenient. Ideal for busy mornings or leisurely weekends, this recipe allows you to prepare everything ahead of time, ensuring you can enjoy more time with family and less time in the kitchen.
This casserole holds a special place in our family traditions. Every year, as we gather for our annual holiday breakfast, this dish is always requested. It started one particularly chaotic holiday season when I was searching for ways to spend more time with visiting relatives instead of being stuck in the kitchen. Through trial and error, this casserole became not just a time-saver but a crowd-pleaser, sparking conversations and leaving everyone satisfied. It’s these moments of togetherness that this recipe encapsulates, making it more than just a meal but a creator of cherished memories.
Why You’ll Love This Make-Ahead Sausage Hashbrown Casserole Recipe
– Convenience: Prepare the night before — just pop it in the oven the next morning.
– Flavorful: Rich with the hearty flavors of sausage and cheese paired with the perfect balance of eggs and hashbrowns.
– Versatile: Easy to customize with different meats or extra spices depending on your taste preferences.
– Family Favorite: Guaranteed to be a hit at any family gathering, making it a reliable choice for both breakfast and dinner.
Ingredient Notes
– Ground breakfast sausage: Forms the savory base of the casserole. You can opt for mild or spicy depending on your preference.
– Frozen hashbrown potatoes: Adds substance and heartiness to the dish, ensuring it is filling and satisfying.
– Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully, providing a gooey, creamy texture and rich taste.
– Large eggs: Bind all the ingredients together, creating a solid casserole structure upon baking.
– Milk: Helps to thin out the egg mixture and adds creaminess.
– Diced green chilis (drained): Introduces a subtle heat and complexity to the casserole’s flavor profile.
– Garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper: These seasonings enhance the overall flavor and can be adjusted according to taste.
How to Make Make-Ahead Sausage Hashbrown Casserole Recipe
– Step 1: Prep and Cook Sausage
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. In a skillet, sauté the ground breakfast sausage over medium-high heat until it’s completely browned. Once done, set aside.
– Step 2: Prepare Hashbrowns
Using the same skillet, cook the frozen hashbrowns until they’re lightly browned and mostly defrosted, about 8-10 minutes.
– Step 3: Layer the Ingredients
In a greased 9×13 inch casserole dish, layer the cooked hashbrowns first, followed by the browned sausage, and then sprinkle the cheddar cheese and green chilis over the top.
– Step 4: Mix Eggs and Seasonings
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
– Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layered ingredients in the casserole dish. Bake uncovered for 35-40 minutes, or until the eggs are set. Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Storage Options
This casserole can be refrigerated for up to 3 days when stored properly in an airtight container. For longer storage, it can be frozen for up to two months. Reheat in the oven or microwave until thoroughly warmed.
Variations and Substitutions
– Substitute sausage with bacon, ham, chicken, or steak for a different flavor profile.
– For a spicier version, add diced jalapenos or use pepper jack cheese.
– Incorporate different herbs like parsley or chives for added freshness.
– Gluten-free? Ensure your hashbrowns and sausage are certified gluten-free.
What to Serve With Make-Ahead Sausage Hashbrown Casserole
– Fresh fruit salad for a light and refreshing contrast.
– A simple arugula salad dressed with olive oil and lemon.
– Warm, crusty bread or buttery croissants.
– A mimosa or freshly brewed coffee for the perfect breakfast pairing.
Frequently Asked Questions
– Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
Yes, simply replace the sausage with a vegetarian substitute or additional vegetables like bell peppers and onions.
– How do I know when the casserole is fully cooked?
The eggs should be completely set, and the top should be slightly golden. A knife inserted in the center should come out clean.
– Can I add more vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! Mushrooms, tomatoes, or spinach make excellent additions.
– Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, use your favorite plant-based milk and cheese substitutes that melt well.
Expect a deliciously creamy and hearty casserole that will leave everyone satisfied and ready to start the day. Perfect for making ahead, it’s not only a time-saver but a real crowd-pleaser, packed with flavors that meld together overnight. Serve it up at your next family breakfast and watch it disappear!
Make-Ahead Sausage Hashbrown Casserole
Equipment
- Skillet
- 9x13 inch casserole dish
- Oven
Ingredients
Sausage
- 1 lb ground breakfast sausage
Hashbrowns
- 1 package frozen hashbrown potatoes
Cheese
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Eggs and Seasonings
- 6 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 can diced green chilis drained
- garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper adjusted to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. In a skillet, sauté the ground breakfast sausage until completely browned. Set aside.
- Using the same skillet, cook the frozen hashbrowns until lightly browned and mostly defrosted, about 8-10 minutes.
- In a greased 9x13 inch casserole dish, layer the cooked hashbrowns, then the browned sausage, and sprinkle with cheddar cheese and green chilis.
- Whisk together the eggs, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layered ingredients in the casserole dish. Bake uncovered for 35-40 minutes, or until the eggs are set.