Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole

This Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole is a hearty and delicious dish that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner. With layers of crispy hashbrowns, savory sausage, and melted cheese, it’s sure to please a crowd!

Why Make This Recipe

This casserole is a great make-ahead option for busy mornings or a special weekend brunch. It combines classic breakfast ingredients into a single, satisfying dish that’s easy to prepare and bake.

Ingredients

• 30 ounces shredded hash brown potatoes (thawed)
• 1 lb ground pork sausage (I love Jimmy Dean’s All Natural)
• 1 medium onion, finely diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• ½ cup butter
• 10 eggs
• 1 cup milk
• ½ teaspoon dried marjoram
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon seasoned salt
• ½ teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
• 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 3 green onions, thinly sliced (divided)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a 9×13 casserole dish with nonstick baking spray.
2. Prepare the Hash Browns:
   • Place the thawed hash browns in the bottom of the prepared casserole dish.
3. Cook the Sausage Mixture:
   • In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the pork sausage. When the sausage is halfway browned, add the diced onions and red bell pepper. Continue cooking until the sausage is fully browned and the onions are soft. Remove from heat and let cool.
4. Assemble the Casserole:
   • Melt ½ cup butter and pour it over the hash brown potatoes, stirring to coat.
   • Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese over the hash browns.
   • Spoon the cooled sausage and vegetable mixture over the hash browns.
5. Prepare the Egg Mixture:
   • In a large bowl, beat together the eggs, milk, marjoram, thyme, seasoned salt, and black pepper.
   • Pour the egg mixture evenly over the sausage and hash browns.
   • Top with the remaining cheddar cheese and half of the sliced green onions.
6. Bake the Casserole:
   • Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the casserole is set and no longer wiggly in the middle.
   • Sprinkle with the remaining green onions.
   • Let the casserole sit for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.

How to Serve Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole

Serve this casserole hot as a main dish for breakfast or brunch. It pairs well with fresh fruit, a side of fruit preserves, or a light salad for a balanced meal.

How to Store and Reheat

• Storing: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

Tips to Make Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole

• Make-Ahead: You can assemble the casserole the night before, cover, and refrigerate. Bake it in the morning for an easy breakfast.
• Add Variations: Feel free to add other ingredients like cooked bacon, ham, or vegetables to customize the casserole to your liking.
• Cheese Options: Use different types of cheese or a blend for varied flavors.

Variations

• Vegetarian: Substitute the sausage with vegetarian sausage or additional vegetables.
• Spicy: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen hash browns?
Yes, just make sure they are thawed before using them in the recipe.

2. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite cheese or a blend of cheeses.

3. How can I make this dish gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but always check the labels on your ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free.

Enjoy this comforting and delicious Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole for a meal that’s both filling and flavorful!