This Hashbrown Egg Casserole is a tasty mix of crispy hashbrowns, fluffy eggs, and cheese. It’s perfect for breakfast or brunch and can easily feed a crowd!
I love how this dish is super simple to whip up. Just layer everything in a dish, pop it in the oven, and enjoy the yummy smell while it cooks. It’s an easy win for any meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Hashbrowns: Frozen hashbrowns are super convenient, but if you prefer, you can use fresh potatoes. Just shred them and cook until lightly crispy first. It adds a lovely texture!
Breakfast Sausage: I love using pork sausage, but chicken or turkey sausage is a great lighter alternative and still packs a ton of flavor.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar is the classic choice, but feel free to mix it up with mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a different taste. Go for sharp cheddar if you love a stronger cheese flavor!
Milk: Whole milk provides creaminess, but you can also use reduced-fat milk or almond milk. Just be mindful that this might slightly alter the texture.
Onions: Diced onions add a nice punch, but if you’re not a fan, you can skip them or substitute with green onions for a milder flavor.
How Do You Ensure Your Casserole is Fluffy and Cooked Just Right?
The secret to a fluffy casserole lies in the egg mixture. Make sure to whisk the eggs and milk thoroughly to introduce air into the mix. This will help achieve that light texture.
- Keep an eye on your baking time. The casserole should be set and lightly golden. If you overbake, it can turn dry.
- Let it cool a few minutes after baking. This allows it to firm up and makes cutting easier.
- If using glass dishes, check a little earlier since they can cook faster than metal ones!
With these tips, you’ll have a delicious and fluffy Hashbrown Egg Casserole that everyone will love!
Hashbrown Egg Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 4 cups frozen hashbrowns, thawed
- 1 lb breakfast sausage, cooked and crumbled
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
Seasonings:
- 1/2 cup diced onion (optional)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional)
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Hashbrown Egg Casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 45-55 minutes to bake, giving you a total time of around 1 hour to 1 hour and 10 minutes before serving. It’ll be worth every minute as the aroma fills your kitchen!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s warming up, lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. Layer the Hashbrowns:
Next, take your thawed hashbrowns and spread them evenly in the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Make sure they cover the whole bottom for an even base.
3. Add the Meat:
Now, sprinkle the cooked and crumbled breakfast sausage evenly over the hashbrowns. This will add a nice savory flavor to your casserole!
4. Cheese it Up:
Sprinkle 1 1/2 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese over the sausage layer. This cheese will melt beautifully, adding richness to the casserole!
5. Create the Egg Mixture:
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and optional garlic powder until everything is well combined. This is the mixture that will hold your casserole together.
6. Combine All Layers:
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layers in the baking dish, ensuring all the ingredients are well coated.
7. Top it Off:
Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top for that delicious cheesy crust we all love!
8. Bake:
Place your casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for approximately 45-55 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden brown.
9. Cool & Serve:
Once it’s done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes to set. Then slice it up and serve warm. It’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy dinner!
10. Garnish:
Before serving, add a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley on top for a fresh touch and a pop of color. Enjoy your hearty and flavorful Hashbrown Egg Casserole!
Can I Use Fresh Potatoes Instead of Frozen Hashbrowns?
Absolutely! If you prefer fresh potatoes, just shred them and lightly sauté until they’re crispy. This adds a great texture to the casserole.
How Can I Make This Casserole Vegetarian?
You can easily make this dish vegetarian by omitting the sausage and adding vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms. Sauté them before layering to enhance their flavor.
Can I Prepare This Casserole in Advance?
Yes, you can! Prepare the casserole up to the point of baking and cover it tightly with plastic wrap. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake it straight from the fridge, but you may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or oven until heated through. You can add a splash of milk before reheating for extra creaminess!
