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This hearty hashbrown breakfast casserole combines classic morning flavors into one satisfying dish. The recipe features layers of crispy potatoes, seasoned sausage, and melted cheese bound together with perfectly seasoned eggs. Developed through years of testing, it has become a reliable favorite for both casual family breakfasts and special occasions.
Key Recipe Benefits
This versatile casserole adapts easily to different ingredients while maintaining its comforting appeal. The make-ahead preparation option makes it ideal for busy mornings, and the recipe consistently produces excellent results whether made with standard or premium ingredients.
Essential Ingredients
- Frozen Hashbrowns: 16 oz package, thawed, cubed style preferred
- Breakfast Sausage: 1 pound, providing rich savory flavor
- Cheddar Cheese: 2 cups freshly shredded
- Eggs: 6 large, room temperature
- Whole Milk: 1/2 cup for optimal texture
Preparation Method
- Egg Mixture
- Thoroughly combine eggs with milk and seasonings until smooth and uniform.
- Sausage Preparation
- Brown sausage thoroughly in skillet, breaking into crumbles. Drain excess fat.
- Assembly
- Layer hashbrowns in baking dish, top with sausage and cheese, then pour egg mixture evenly over layers.
- Baking
- Bake at 350°F for approximately 45 minutes until golden brown and set.
Customization Options
The basic recipe welcomes variations - try substituting tater tots for hashbrowns or incorporating sautéed vegetables. Different meat options like ground beef or Italian sausage work well for heartier versions.
Advance Preparation
Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate covered. Add 15 minutes to baking time when cooking from chilled. For longer storage, freeze fully cooled casserole for up to one month.
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Serving Suggestions
Enhance the meal with freshly baked cinnamon rolls or a bright fruit salad. A coffee and juice station creates an inviting breakfast or brunch setup.
Nutritional Benefits
The combination of eggs, cheese, and potatoes provides sustained energy through protein, calcium, and complex carbohydrates. Adding vegetables increases the nutritional value while maintaining the satisfying flavor profile.
Popular Appeal
The casserole's enduring popularity stems from its blend of familiar breakfast elements - crispy potato edges, melted cheese throughout, and perfectly cooked eggs. The generous portions and easy serving make it ideal for gatherings.
Storage Instructions
Refrigerate leftovers properly covered for up to four days. Reheat portions in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes to maintain texture and crispness.
Freezing Guidelines
Double the recipe to freeze an extra casserole. Cool completely, wrap securely in foil and plastic wrap, and freeze. Thaw overnight before reheating.
Serving Versatility
This reliable recipe suits various occasions from holiday gatherings to casual brunches. The appealing aroma and satisfying taste consistently draw positive responses from diverse groups.
Nutritional Overview
Each serving provides approximately 200 calories with balanced proportions of protein, carbohydrates, and fats. The recipe allows for portion and ingredient adjustments to accommodate dietary preferences.
Complete Menu Planning
Create an elegant brunch spread centered around the casserole. Complement with fresh fruit, breakfast pastries, and hot beverages. Optional mimosa components elevate the presentation for special occasions.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! Put it together the night before, cover, and refrigerate. Add an extra 15 minutes to the bake time and let it sit out while the oven preheats.
- → What kind of hashbrowns should I use?
Both shredded and diced hashbrowns work perfectly. It doesn’t matter if they’re frozen or chilled—just make sure they’re thawed beforehand.
- → Is there a substitute for the sausage?
You can swap out the sausage for bacon crumbles or diced ham. Turkey sausage is a great choice if you want a leaner option.
- → How long can leftovers last?
Keep leftovers stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Just reheat portions when ready to eat.
- → Can I make a bigger batch?
Definitely. Double the ingredients and bake it in a 9x13 pan. Keep the temperature the same but monitor the cooking time closely.
Conclusion
This crowd-pleasing breakfast bake layers hashbrowns, cooked sausage, eggs, and cheese. It’s customizable and easy to make ahead.