Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole is the perfect dish for feeding a crowd, whether you're hosting a weekend brunch, holiday breakfast, or simply preparing a hearty meal for your family.
This casserole brings together crispy hashbrowns, savory breakfast sausage or bacon, fluffy eggs, and melted cheese, creating a satisfying and delicious meal in one pan. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it can also be made ahead, making your mornings a breeze. It’s a versatile recipe that can be customized to suit different tastes and dietary preferences.
In this article, we’ll guide you through a classic Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole recipe, offer some tips for variations, and answer frequently asked questions so you can make the perfect breakfast casserole every time.
Why You’ll Love Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole
- Easy to Make: With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, this casserole comes together quickly and bakes up to golden perfection.
- Perfect for a Crowd: Whether it’s a big family breakfast or a potluck brunch, this casserole is ideal for feeding a large group.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can assemble the casserole the night before and bake it in the morning, saving you time during busy mornings.
- Customizable: From adding vegetables to swapping meats, this recipe can be easily tailored to your preferences.
Ingredients for Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole
This recipe serves 8-10 people, making it great for gatherings or meal prep for the week.
Main Ingredients:
- 1 (30 oz) bag of frozen hashbrowns (thawed)
- 1 pound breakfast sausage (or bacon or ham)
- 1 cup diced onion
- 1 cup diced bell peppers (optional)
- 12 large eggs
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk (or half-and-half for a richer casserole)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions for Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
Step 2: Cook the Meat
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage until browned and fully cooked, about 7-10 minutes. Use a spatula to break it into crumbles as it cooks. If you’re using bacon, cook it until crisp and chop it into bite-sized pieces. If you prefer ham, simply dice it and skip the cooking step. Once cooked, transfer the sausage or bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to drain the excess fat.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables (Optional)
In the same skillet, sauté the diced onions and bell peppers until softened, about 5 minutes. This step adds extra flavor and texture to the casserole but is optional if you prefer a simpler dish. Once cooked, remove the vegetables from the heat and set them aside.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well combined. Stir in 1 1/2 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese, saving the remaining 1/2 cup for topping.
Spread the thawed hashbrowns evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Layer the cooked sausage (or bacon/ham) and sautéed vegetables over the hashbrowns. Pour the egg mixture over the top, ensuring everything is evenly distributed.
Step 5: Bake the Casserole
Sprinkle the reserved 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese on top of the casserole. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the eggs are fully set and the top is golden brown. You can check for doneness by inserting a knife into the center of the casserole; if it comes out clean, the casserole is ready.
Step 6: Serve
Let the casserole cool for about 5 minutes before slicing into squares. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives if desired. Serve hot alongside fresh fruit, toast, or even a light salad for a balanced breakfast.
Tips for the Best Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole
Thaw and Drain the Hashbrowns: Be sure to thaw the frozen hashbrowns completely and pat them dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture. This ensures the casserole doesn’t become watery.
Customize the Ingredients: This casserole is incredibly versatile! You can add or swap out ingredients to suit your preferences. Try adding mushrooms, spinach, or tomatoes for extra veggies, or swap the cheddar for Swiss, mozzarella, or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
Make it Ahead: To make mornings easier, assemble the casserole the night before, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and store it in the refrigerator. In the morning, simply uncover and bake as directed. You may need to add an additional 10-15 minutes to the bake time if baking straight from the fridge.
Meal Prep-Friendly: This casserole reheats beautifully, making it a great option for meal prep. Store leftover portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, or freeze individual portions for up to 3 months.
Add a Kick of Spice: If you enjoy a little heat, you can add diced jalapeños, crushed red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce to the egg mixture for a spicy twist.
FAQs About Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole
1. Can I Use Fresh Potatoes Instead of Frozen Hashbrowns?
Yes, you can use fresh potatoes if you prefer. Simply peel and shred the potatoes using a box grater or food processor, then rinse them in cold water to remove excess starch. Be sure to dry them thoroughly with a kitchen towel or paper towels before using them in the recipe.
2. Can I Make Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole Without Meat?
Absolutely! If you prefer a vegetarian option, simply omit the sausage, bacon, or ham. You can replace the meat with additional vegetables, such as mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini, to make it just as hearty and delicious.
3. Can I Use Pre-Cooked or Leftover Meat in the Casserole?
Yes, this casserole is a great way to use up leftover cooked meats. If you have leftover cooked bacon, ham, or even chicken, you can chop it up and add it directly to the casserole without needing to cook it again.
4. How Do I Prevent the Casserole from Being Watery?
To avoid a watery casserole, make sure to thoroughly thaw and drain the frozen hashbrowns. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove as much moisture as possible. Additionally, if you're adding vegetables with high water content (like mushrooms or spinach), cook them beforehand to release excess moisture.
5. Can I Freeze Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze this casserole either before or after baking. To freeze before baking, assemble the casserole as directed, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed, adding 10-15 minutes to the baking time if needed.
If you want to freeze it after baking, let the casserole cool completely, then cut it into individual portions. Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. Thaw portions in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the microwave or oven.
6. How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftover Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
7. Can I Use a Different Type of Cheese?
Yes, you can use any cheese you like in this recipe. While cheddar is a popular choice, you can also try Monterey Jack, mozzarella, Swiss, or even a combination of cheeses for added flavor.
8. Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Yes! While breakfast sausage, bacon, and ham are traditional choices, you can experiment with other meats like cooked ground turkey, chicken sausage, or even chorizo for a unique twist.
Conclusion
Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole is a versatile, hearty, and satisfying dish that’s perfect for starting your day off right. With crispy hashbrowns, savory sausage or bacon, fluffy eggs, and gooey melted cheese, this casserole is a crowd-pleaser for any breakfast or brunch gathering. Whether you're looking for an easy make-ahead breakfast or a dish that can feed a large group, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite. Plus, with endless customization options, you can tailor it to suit your tastes and dietary needs. Make it today and enjoy a delicious, comforting breakfast that everyone will love!
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