This Breakfast Sausage Casserole is a perfect morning treat! Packed with savory sausage, fluffy eggs, and fresh veggies, it’s hearty and full of flavor.
It’s great for feeding a crowd or just enjoying on a lazy Sunday. I love popping leftovers in the microwave for a quick meal later—so tasty!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Breakfast Sausage: You can use either pork or turkey sausage depending on your preference. If you’re looking for a healthier option, chicken sausage is also a tasty substitute.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar is classic, but feel free to swap half for Monterey Jack for a creamier texture. Or, try pepper jack for an added kick!
Hash Browns: Frozen hash browns work well, but if you have fresh potatoes, you can shred them yourself! Just be sure to squeeze out excess moisture.
Milk: Whole or 2% milk gives richness, but almond milk or soy milk are great dairy-free options that still add creaminess.
Bell Peppers: Any color of bell pepper works, or you can omit them if you prefer. Spinach or kale can be a nice green substitute.
How Do I Ensure My Casserole Sets Perfectly?
Baking a breakfast casserole to perfection can be tricky, but here are some tips to help you get it just right:
- Make sure to preheat your oven. This ensures even cooking from the start.
- Don’t skip the cooling time after baking. Letting it sit for 5 minutes allows it to firm up a bit.
- Check for doneness by inserting a knife into the center; it should come out clean when done.
With these pointers, you’ll serve up a delicious, beautifully cooked casserole every time!
How to Make Breakfast Sausage Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound breakfast sausage (pork or turkey)
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 2 cups frozen hash brown potatoes, thawed
- 1/2 cup diced bell peppers (red, green, or mixed)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions (for garnish)
- Cooking spray or butter (for greasing the baking dish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare, and then you’ll need to bake it for 35-40 minutes. So in total, set aside about 1 hour to enjoy this delicious breakfast option. Perfect for a family breakfast or brunch gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This prepares the oven for even cooking, making sure your casserole turns out perfectly.
2. Cook the Sausage:
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage until it’s browned and crumbled. Use a spatula to break it up as it cooks. Once done, drain any excess grease and set the sausage aside in a bowl.
3. Sauté the Veggies:
In the same skillet, add your chopped onions and bell peppers. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes until they’re soft and fragrant. Once they’re ready, remove them from the heat and set aside with the sausage.
4. Mix the Egg Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, crack the eggs and add the milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Whisk everything together until it’s well combined.
5. Combine the Ingredients:
Add the thawed hash browns, half of the shredded cheddar cheese, the cooked sausage, and the sautéed veggies to the egg mixture. Stir everything together until evenly mixed.
6. Prepare for Baking:
Pour the entire mixture into a greased 9-inch round baking dish or a similar-sized casserole dish. Spread it out evenly so it cooks properly.
7. Add Cheese:
Top your casserole with the remaining shredded cheddar cheese for that delicious cheesy topping.
8. Bake:
Place the casserole in your preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 35-40 minutes. It’s ready when the center is set and the top is golden brown.
9. Cool and Garnish:
Once out of the oven, let it cool for about 5 minutes. This cooling time helps the casserole set a bit more. Then, sprinkle with chopped green onions for a fresh touch.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice your breakfast casserole and serve it warm. Enjoy it with family or friends for a delightful start to the day!
This hearty and cheesy breakfast casserole is sure to be a hit during any breakfast or brunch gathering!
Can I Use Different Types of Sausage?
Absolutely! You can use pork, turkey, or even chicken sausage based on your preference or dietary needs. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly before adding it to the casserole.
How Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the entire casserole the night before! Just assemble it, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. In the morning, bake it straight from the fridge, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time.
Can I Freeze Leftovers?
Yes, this casserole freezes well! Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or store it in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
What Can I Serve with This Casserole?
This casserole is great on its own, but you can serve it with fresh fruit, a simple green salad, or some toast for a complete breakfast. You can also pair it with a dollop of sour cream or salsa for added flavor!