Go Back

Crispy Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole

This hearty casserole combines crispy hash browns, savory sausage, and melted cheese for a comforting breakfast perfect for any occasion.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 55 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Breakfast, Brunch
Cuisine: American
Calories: 365
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Base Ingredients
  • 30 oz 1 (30 oz) bag frozen shredded hash browns, thawed Thaw and squeeze out moisture before use.
  • 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted, divided Use half for the hash browns and half for drizzling.
  • 1 lb breakfast pork sausage
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 1 red bell pepper diced
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded, divided Save half for topping.
  • 8 large eggs
  • 1 cup whole milk Substitutions can include half-and-half.
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp fine sea salt Reduce for low-sodium options.
  • 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped, for garnish
  • to taste hot sauce, for serving (optional) Add according to preference.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  2. Place the thawed hash browns in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze to remove excess water. Spread them in the prepared dish and drizzle with half the melted butter.
  3. Press the hash browns into an even layer and season lightly.
Pre-Bake
  1. Bake the hash brown layer in the oven for 15 minutes.
Cook the Filling
  1. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the sausage for 6 to 7 minutes until browned, breaking into crumbles.
  2. Add the diced onion and red bell pepper; cook for another 4 to 5 minutes until vegetables are softened. Drain any excess fat.
Assemble the Casserole
  1. Layer the sausage mixture over the pre-baked hash browns.
  2. Add 1 1/2 cups of cheddar cheese evenly.
Add the Egg Mixture and Bake
  1. In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Pour this mixture evenly over the casserole.
  2. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup cheddar cheese on top and drizzle with the rest of the melted butter.
  3. Bake uncovered for 35 to 40 minutes until the center is set and the top is golden. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

This casserole is make-ahead friendly and reheats well, making it perfect for busy schedules. For best results with hash browns, ensure they are thoroughly dried before use.