Start your day off right with a delicious and hearty Make Ahead Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole that’s sure to impress your family and friends! This crowd-pleasing dish combines crispy hash browns, savory sausage, and a creamy egg mixture, all topped with melted cheese for the ultimate breakfast experience. Perfect for busy mornings or special occasions, this casserole can be assembled the night before and baked to perfection in just over an hour. Get ready to make your mornings easier and tastier—your taste buds will thank you!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 5 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 bag (30 oz) frozen hash browns
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 lb cooked sausage, crumbled
- 1/2 cup diced onions
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish thoroughly with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- In a large skillet, cook the sausage over medium heat, breaking it into small crumbles. Cook until the sausage is completely browned and no pink remains. Drain excess grease on paper towels and set aside to cool slightly.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, and pepper until well combined and smooth. This will create the custard base for the casserole.
- In the prepared baking dish, spread the frozen hash browns evenly across the bottom, creating a consistent base layer.
- Sprinkle the cooked sausage crumbles evenly over the hash browns. Distribute the diced onions across the layer for added flavor.
- Pour the egg and milk mixture slowly and evenly over the hash browns, sausage, and onions, ensuring all ingredients are moistened.
- Top the casserole with shredded cheese, covering the entire surface for a golden, melted cheese finish.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 35 minutes. Then remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
- Remove from oven and let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving. This allows the casserole to set and makes it easier to slice.
- Optional: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or green onions before serving for added color and freshness.
- For make-ahead preparation, assemble the casserole the night before, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove from refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking and proceed with baking instructions.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, prepare the casserole the night before. Simply assemble all the ingredients, cover, and refrigerate. Let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
- Customize Your Cheese: Feel free to mix and match cheeses! While cheddar is a classic choice, Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or even a blend can add a delightful twist to your casserole.
- Add Veggies: Boost the nutritional value and flavor by adding your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms. Sauté them with the sausage for added taste.
- Check for Doneness: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your casserole towards the end of the baking time. It should be golden brown on top and set in the center.
- Serve with Style: For an extra touch, garnish your casserole with fresh herbs like parsley or chives before serving. It adds a pop of color and freshness!
- Leftover Magic: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven for a quick breakfast throughout the week.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 23g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 250mg
