Best Breakfast Casserole Ever

This hearty breakfast casserole with hash browns has been my family's cherished recipe passed down through generations. The combination of crispy potatoes, savory sausage, and melty cheese creates the ultimate morning comfort food that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters while keeping your kitchen filled with irresistible aromas.

I first made this casserole when hosting my in laws for Christmas morning. The ability to prepare it the night before saved my sanity and now it has become our non negotiable holiday breakfast tradition that everyone requests by name.

Ingredients

• Frozen hash browns: 2 pounds thawed completely for even cooking and to prevent excess moisture
• Pork sausage: 1 pound preferably maple flavored for that sweet savory contrast that makes this dish special
• Small onion: finely diced adds a subtle flavor foundation without overwhelming the dish
• Large eggs: 5 creates the perfect custardy texture that binds everything together
• Milk: 1/2 cup helps create that fluffy texture throughout the casserole
• Onion powder: 1/2 teaspoon provides uniform flavor without the texture of additional onions
• Garlic powder: 1/8 teaspoon adds depth without overpowering the breakfast flavors
• Salt and pepper: to taste adjusting based on the saltiness of your sausage and cheese
• Shredded cheddar: 12 ounces sharp varieties work best for maximum flavor impact

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation:

Preheat your oven to a moderate 350°F and thoroughly grease an 8 inch square baking dish. Spread the thawed hash browns in an even layer making sure to press lightly to create a solid base. Taking time here prevents gaps and ensures even cooking throughout.

Cooking the Sausage:

In a large skillet over medium heat brown the sausage and onion together breaking the sausage into small crumbles as it cooks. This should take about 10 minutes until the sausage is no longer pink and the onions have softened and become translucent. Drain off excess grease thoroughly to prevent a soggy casserole.

Creating the Egg Mixture:

In a large bowl whisk together eggs milk onion powder garlic powder salt and pepper until fully incorporated and slightly frothy. The whisking incorporates air which helps create a lighter texture in the final dish. Pour this mixture evenly over the hash browns ensuring complete coverage.

Layering the Casserole:

Sprinkle half the cheddar cheese over the egg soaked potatoes distributing it evenly to ensure cheese in every bite. Next spread the cooked sausage and onion mixture on top followed by the remaining cheese creating distinct layers of flavor that will meld during baking.

Baking to Perfection:

Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil to trap moisture and heat which helps cook the casserole evenly. Bake covered for 1 hour then remove the foil and continue baking for approximately 10 more minutes until the cheese develops a golden crust and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean without runny eggs.

Resting Before Serving:

Allow the casserole to rest for at least 5 minutes before cutting. This crucial step allows the eggs to fully set and makes serving much neater with defined squares that hold their shape on the plate.

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The maple flavored sausage is truly the secret ingredient that makes this recipe special. My grandmother always insisted on this particular variety claiming it added the perfect hint of sweetness against the savory eggs and potatoes. Now whenever I make this dish the distinctive aroma instantly transports me back to childhood holiday mornings.

Make Ahead Magic

This breakfast casserole truly shines as a make ahead option. You can prepare the entire casserole up to the baking step cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake remove from the refrigerator while preheating the oven to take the chill off then bake as directed adding about 10 15 minutes to the covered baking time. This makes it perfect for holiday mornings when you want to spend time with family rather than in the kitchen.

Creative Variations

The beauty of this breakfast casserole lies in its versatility. Try substituting bacon or ham for the sausage or use a combination for a meat lovers version. Vegetarians can skip the meat altogether and add sautéed bell peppers mushrooms and spinach. For cheese variations pepper jack adds a nice kick while smoked gouda creates a deeper flavor profile. You can even add a southwestern twist with green chilies cumin and topped with avocado and salsa. The basic recipe provides a perfect canvas for your breakfast creativity.

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Serving Suggestions

For the perfect breakfast spread serve this casserole alongside fresh fruit a simple green salad or yogurt parfaits to balance the richness. If serving for brunch add mimosas or a Bloody Mary bar for adults. A basket of warm biscuits or croissants completes the meal. Individual portions reheat beautifully in the microwave for about 1 2 minutes making leftovers perfect for busy weekday breakfasts. For presentation sprinkle with fresh herbs like chives or parsley just before serving.

Storage Solutions

Properly stored this casserole maintains its quality remarkably well. Refrigerate leftovers within two hours of cooking in an airtight container for up to 4 days. For longer storage freeze individual portions wrapped tightly in plastic wrap then aluminum foil for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in a 350°F oven until warmed through about 20 minutes or microwave covered with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use a different type of sausage?

Yes, you can substitute pork sausage with turkey, chicken, or even plant-based sausage depending on your preference.

→ Can this dish be prepared the night before?

Absolutely! Assemble the casserole the night before, cover it with foil, and refrigerate. Bake it fresh in the morning.

→ Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Certainly! Chopped bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms make excellent additions for more flavor and nutrition.

→ How do I reheat leftovers?

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or microwave until heated through.

→ Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?

Yes, shred fresh potatoes, then rinse and pat them dry before using to remove excess starch.