Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy Preparation: Assemble the casserole in just 10 minutes, making it convenient for busy mornings.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it the night before and bake it fresh in the morning.
- Crowd-Pleaser: With its cheesy, savory flavors, it’s sure to be a hit with family and friends.
- Versatile Ingredients: Customize with your preferred meats or add vegetables to suit your taste.
Ingredients
- 1 pound Italian sausage, cooked
- 1 yellow onion, chopped and sautéed in sausage grease
- 7 eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 20-ounce bag frozen diced hash browns
- 8-ounce brick of mild cheddar cheese, grated
- Salt and pepper, to taste
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a 9×13-inch casserole dish with non-stick spray and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked sausage, sautéed onions, eggs, milk, hash browns, and most of the grated cheese (reserve about one cup for topping). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared casserole dish and spread evenly.
- Bake for 35 minutes. Remove from oven, top with reserved cheese, and return to oven for an additional 8 minutes.
- Allow the casserole to rest for 15-20 minutes before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Yield: 10-12 servings
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Additional Time: 15 minutes (resting)
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Variations
- Meat Alternatives: Substitute Italian sausage with breakfast sausage, ham, or cooked bacon.
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the meat and add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms.
- Cheese Choices: Experiment with different cheeses such as mozzarella, pepper jack, or Swiss for varied flavors.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or warm the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
FAQs
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?
Yes, you can use fresh diced potatoes. Ensure they are cooked or parboiled before adding to the casserole to achieve the desired texture.
Do I need to thaw the frozen hash browns before using them?
No, you can add the frozen hash browns directly to the mixture; they will cook thoroughly during baking.
Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole, cover it, and refrigerate overnight. Bake it the next morning as directed.
How can I make this casserole spicier?
Use spicy Italian sausage, add diced jalapeños, or incorporate a dash of hot sauce into the egg mixture for extra heat.
Is it possible to freeze this casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the baked casserole. Allow it to cool completely, wrap it tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Can I use egg substitutes in this recipe?
Yes, you can use liquid egg substitutes or egg whites. Follow the equivalent measurements provided on the product packaging.
What can I serve alongside this casserole?
Pair it with fresh fruit, a green salad, or toast to complete the meal.
How do I prevent the casserole from becoming too dry?
Ensure not to overbake the casserole. Baking until the eggs are just set will keep it moist.
Can I add vegetables to this casserole?
Yes, adding sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or spinach can enhance the flavor and nutritional value.
What type of milk works best in this recipe?
Whole milk adds richness, but you can use any milk or non-dairy milk alternative based on your preference.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Potato Breakfast Casserole is a versatile and delicious dish that’s perfect for breakfast or brunch gatherings. Its simple preparation and customizable ingredients make it a go-to recipe for any occasion. Enjoy the comforting combination of eggs, potatoes, cheese, and sausage in every bite!
Cheesy Potato Breakfast Casserole
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 10-12 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Cheesy Potato Breakfast Casserole is the ultimate comfort breakfast dish, featuring eggs, potatoes, sausage, and cheese. Perfect for feeding a crowd, this make-ahead breakfast casserole is a stress-free, hearty meal.
Ingredients
- 1 pound Italian sausage, cooked
- 1 yellow onion, chopped and sautéed in sausage grease
- 7 eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 20-ounce bag frozen diced hash browns
- 8-ounce brick of mild cheddar cheese, grated
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a 9×13-inch casserole dish with non-stick spray and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked sausage, sautéed onions, eggs, milk, hash browns, and most of the grated cheese (reserve about one cup for topping). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared casserole dish and spread evenly.
- Bake for 35 minutes. Remove from oven, top with reserved cheese, and return to oven for an additional 8 minutes.
- Allow the casserole to rest for 15-20 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Customize with your favorite meats or vegetables.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
- Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire casserole in the oven.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Breakfast or Brunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
