This Cheesy Hashbrown Egg Casserole is like a warm hug on a plate! Made with crispy hashbrowns, cheesy goodness, and fluffy eggs, it’s perfect for breakfast or brunch.
Honestly, who can resist cheesy potatoes? I love making this dish when friends come over. It’s so easy and always disappears fast—definitely a crowd-pleaser!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Frozen Hashbrowns: These are key to the dish’s base. I love the convenience of using frozen hashbrowns, but if fresh potatoes are available, you can shred them yourself instead. Just remember to squeeze out any extra moisture for the best texture!
Breakfast Sausage: This adds great flavor. You can swap it for turkey sausage, crumbled tofu, or even diced ham if you’re looking for different flavors or dietary options. I sometimes mix it up with spicy sausage for a kick!
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar is creamy and delicious! If you want to try something different, Monterey Jack or a cheese blend works well. I personally enjoy mixing in some pepper jack for a bit of spice.
Eggs: They provide the structure and protein. Free-range or organic eggs are my go-to, but if you need a vegan option, you can use a flax or chia seed mixture (3 Tbsp of flaxseed meal plus 9 Tbsp water for every egg).
Bacon: For a crispy topping, cooked bacon is great. If you’re avoiding pork, try turkey bacon or skip it entirely. You can top it with more cheese or even some crispy onions for crunch!
How Do I Ensure My Casserole is Perfectly Set?
Getting the perfect texture is crucial. The key step is to bake the casserole until the eggs are fully set. Here are some tips:
- Watch for color: The top should be a nice golden brown. If it looks too dark, cover it loosely with foil to prevent burning.
- Test for doneness: Gently shake the casserole. It should be firm and not jiggle in the center.
- Rest before serving: Let it cool for about 5 minutes after baking. This helps it firm up more for easy slicing!
Enjoy your delicious creation, and don’t forget to share with family and friends!
Cheesy Hashbrown Egg Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1 (30 oz) bag frozen hashbrowns, thawed
- 1 lb breakfast sausage, cooked and crumbled
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 12 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
For the Toppings:
- 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled (for topping)
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh chives (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 45 minutes to bake. So, in total, you’re looking at about 1 hour of time to enjoy a delicious meal. It’s perfect for those leisurely weekend brunches or gatherings with friends!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare Your Dish:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming up, grab your 9×13-inch baking dish and grease it well with a little cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
2. Lay the Foundation:
Once your dish is greased, take the thawed hashbrowns and spread them evenly across the bottom. This creates a tasty base for your casserole. Don’t worry if they overlap a little; it will all bake together beautifully!
3. Add Sausage and Cheese:
Next, sprinkle the cooked and crumbled breakfast sausage evenly over the hashbrowns. This layer adds flavorful protein! Now, take half of the shredded cheddar cheese and sprinkle it over the sausage.
4. Mix the Egg Mixture:
In a large bowl, crack those 12 eggs and pour in the milk. Add the chopped onion, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Whisk all the ingredients together until they’re well combined and slightly frothy.
5. Combine and Top:
Pour the egg mixture gently over your layered casserole in the baking dish, making sure it distributes evenly. Finally, sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Yum!
6. Bake to Perfection:
Now it’s time to bake! Place the casserole in the oven uncovered and let it bake for 40 to 45 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the eggs are set and the top is nicely golden brown.
7. Cool and Garnish:
After baking, carefully remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for about 5 minutes. This tiny rest will help the layers hold together. Before serving, sprinkle the crumbled bacon and chopped chives on top for that finishing touch!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice the casserole into squares and serve warm. It’s a comforting dish that’s sure to please everyone at your table!
Enjoy this cheesy, savory breakfast casserole that’s perfect for happy gatherings or cozy family mornings. Bon appétit!
Can I Use Fresh Potatoes Instead of Frozen Hashbrowns?
Absolutely! If you prefer fresh potatoes, you can shred them yourself. Just make sure to squeeze out the excess moisture after shredding for the best texture.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole the night before! Assemble all the ingredients, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time when you’re ready to bake it.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm them in the oven until heated through.
Can I Substitute the Eggs for a Vegan Option?
Yes! You can use a flaxseed or chia seed mixture as a substitute for eggs. For each egg, mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal or chia seeds with 2.5 tablespoons of water and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it thickens.