Sausage Hash Brown Casserole with Eggs Recipe

Perfect Sausage Hash Brown Casserole with Eggs Recipe

This complete breakfast casserole combines crispy hash browns, savory sausage, and fluffy eggs for a hearty morning meal that serves 6-8 people. Prepare in 20 minutes, bake for 45 minutes at 375°F (190°C).

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450g) breakfast sausage
• 1 (32oz) package frozen shredded hash browns, thawed
• 12 large eggs
• 1 cup milk
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Basic Instructions

1. Cook sausage in skillet until browned; drain fat
2. Press hash browns into greased 9x13 baking dish
3. Saute onions and peppers; mix with sausage
4. Whisk eggs, milk and seasonings; pour over hash browns
5. Add sausage/veggie mixture and cheese
6. Bake 45 minutes until set and golden

The Ultimate Sausage Hash Brown Casserole with Eggs

Nothing says weekend brunch or holiday breakfast quite like a hearty sausage hash brown casserole with eggs. This beloved breakfast casserole combines crispy hash browns, savory sausage, and fluffy eggs into one delicious dish that's perfect for feeding a crowd. Whether you're hosting a brunch gathering or meal prepping for the week, this recipe delivers consistent results with minimal effort.

What makes this particular sausage hash brown casserole with eggs stand out from other breakfast casseroles? The secret lies in the layering technique and proper seasoning balance. Unlike many recipes that simply mix everything together, our method creates distinct textural layers while ensuring every bite contains the perfect ratio of ingredients. The result is a breakfast casserole with sausage and hash browns that maintains its structure when sliced yet remains moist and flavorful throughout.

Why This Sausage Egg Casserole Recipe Works

After testing numerous variations of the classic sausage hash brown casserole, we've perfected the formula that consistently delivers restaurant-quality results at home. The key factors that make this recipe exceptional include:

• Proper hash brown preparation - Thawing and pressing out excess moisture prevents a soggy casserole
• Balanced seasoning - The combination of garlic powder and paprika enhances without overpowering
• Optimal egg-to-milk ratio - Creates fluffy, not rubbery, egg texture throughout the casserole
• Strategic layering - Ensures even distribution of ingredients from top to bottom

Prep and Cooking Timeline for Sausage Hash Brown Casserole

Stage	Time Required	Key Actions
Preparation	20 minutes	Thaw hash browns, cook sausage, dice vegetables, whisk eggs
Assembly	10 minutes	Layer ingredients in baking dish
Baking	45 minutes	375°F (190°C) until set and golden
Resting	10 minutes	Allows casserole to set for cleaner slices
Total Time	85 minutes

Detailed Ingredient Notes and Substitutions

Understanding each component of your breakfast casserole with sausage and hash browns helps you make informed substitutions while maintaining quality:

Sausage Selection and Nutritional Profile

Protein choices significantly impact nutritional content. Per USDA FoodData Central analysis of standard cooked products:

Nutritional Comparison: Pork vs. Turkey Sausage (per 100g)

Nutrient	Pork Sausage	Turkey Sausage	Source Verification
Calories	351 kcal	236 kcal	USDA #170153
Total Fat	31.15g	14.78g	USDA #174037
Protein	18.23g	24.06g

For family meals, mild pork sausage provides traditional flavor, while turkey offers 33% fewer calories. Plant-based alternatives vary significantly by brand; always check labels for sodium content as some exceed 500mg per serving (FDA dietary guidelines recommend under 2,300mg daily).

Hash Brown Considerations

Frozen shredded hash browns provide the best texture for this casserole:

• Thaw completely and squeeze out excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel
• Avoid diced or patty-style hash browns which contain more fillers
• For extra crispiness, lightly brown hash browns in a skillet before layering

Egg and Dairy Components

The egg mixture forms the custard base that binds everything together:

• Whole eggs provide the best texture; avoid using only egg whites
• Whole milk creates ideal richness; half-and-half makes an even creamier casserole
• Sharp cheddar adds flavor, but Swiss, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack work well too

Step-by-Step Cooking Guide

Follow these detailed instructions for the best sausage hash brown casserole with eggs every time:

Preparation Phase

1. Remove hash browns from freezer and allow to thaw completely (overnight in refrigerator works best)
2. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray
3. Cook sausage in a skillet over medium heat until browned; drain excess fat and set aside
4. Dice onion and bell pepper; sauté in the same skillet for 3-4 minutes until softened
5. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper

Assembly Process

1. Press thawed hash browns firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish (this creates your crispy base layer)
2. Squeeze out any remaining moisture from hash browns using a clean kitchen towel
3. Sprinkle half the cheese evenly over the hash browns
4. Pour half the egg mixture over the cheese layer
5. Spread the cooked sausage and sautéed vegetables evenly over the egg mixture
6. Add remaining egg mixture, then top with remaining cheese

Baking and Finishing

1. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 40-45 minutes, until the center is set and the top is golden brown
2. Test for doneness by inserting a knife near the center; it should come out clean
3. Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before slicing (this allows it to set properly)
4. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or chives if desired

High-Altitude Cooking Adjustments

At elevations above 3,000 feet, atmospheric pressure changes require specific modifications per Colorado State University Extension guidelines:

• Increase oven temperature by 25°F (bake at 400°F)
• Extend baking time by 5-10 minutes while monitoring for doneness
• No additional liquid adjustments needed for egg-based casseroles
• Resting time remains critical (10 minutes minimum) to prevent collapse

These adjustments compensate for faster liquid evaporation and lower boiling points. For comprehensive high-altitude baking science, see the CSU Extension resource.

Serving Suggestions for Your Breakfast Casserole

This versatile sausage egg casserole pairs beautifully with numerous sides:

• Classic brunch accompaniments - Fresh fruit salad, roasted tomatoes, or avocado slices
• Additional breakfast items - Pancakes, waffles, or toast for a complete meal
• Sauces and condiments - Hot sauce, salsa, or a dollop of sour cream
• Beverage pairings - Freshly brewed coffee, orange juice, or mimosas

For meal prep purposes, this make ahead sausage hash brown casserole stores exceptionally well. Prepare the entire dish through assembly, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. You may need to add 5-10 minutes to the baking time if starting from cold.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Proper storage ensures your sausage hash brown casserole maintains quality:

Storage Guidelines for Sausage Hash Brown Casserole

Storage Method	Duration	Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator	3-4 days	Microwave individual portions for 60-90 seconds or reheat in 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes
Freezer	2-3 months	Thaw overnight in refrigerator, then reheat as above; add 5-10 minutes to oven time
Room Temperature	2 hours maximum	Discard if left out longer than 2 hours for food safety

Popular Recipe Variations

Once you've mastered the basic sausage hash brown casserole with eggs, try these delicious variations:

Southwest Style

Add 1 diced jalapeño (seeds removed), 1 cup black beans (rinsed), and 1/2 cup corn to the vegetable mixture. Top with sliced avocado and cilantro after baking.

Vegetarian Option

Omit sausage and add 1 cup sliced mushrooms and extra bell peppers. Consider adding 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese for additional protein.

Breakfast-for-Dinner Version

Add 1/2 cup diced cooked ham and serve with a side salad for a complete dinner. This hash brown breakfast casserole works wonderfully for any meal.

Gluten-Free Adaptation

This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but verify all ingredients (particularly sausage) are certified gluten-free if needed for dietary restrictions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns in this sausage hash brown casserole?

Yes, you can use fresh potatoes, but they require extra preparation. Peel and shred 2.5 lbs of russet potatoes, then soak in cold water for 30 minutes to remove excess starch. Drain, squeeze out moisture thoroughly, and proceed with the recipe. Note that frozen hash browns generally produce more consistent results for this casserole.

How do I prevent my sausage egg casserole from becoming watery?

The key to preventing a watery casserole is removing excess moisture from ingredients. Thaw hash browns completely and squeeze out liquid using a clean kitchen towel. Cook vegetables until softened to evaporate their moisture. Avoid overbaking, as this can cause the eggs to weep. Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes after baking to allow it to set properly.

Can I make this breakfast casserole with sausage and hash browns ahead of time?

Absolutely! This is an excellent make ahead sausage hash brown casserole. Assemble the entire dish, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. You may need to add 5-10 minutes to the baking time if starting from cold. For longer storage, freeze the assembled (unbaked) casserole for up to 3 months, then thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

What's the best way to reheat leftovers of this hash brown breakfast casserole?

For optimal texture, reheating in the oven works best. Place individual portions in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat at 350°F for 15-20 minutes until warmed through. If using a microwave, cover the portion with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out and heat in 30-second intervals until hot. Avoid overheating, as this can make the eggs rubbery.

Can I double this sausage hash brown casserole with eggs recipe for a larger crowd?

Yes, you can double the recipe, but use two separate 9x13 baking dishes rather than one oversized dish. Doubling the ingredients in a single larger pan will result in uneven cooking and potentially undercooked center portions. When baking two dishes simultaneously, rotate their positions in the oven halfway through baking time for even heat distribution.