This Breakfast Sausage Casserole is a tasty way to start your day! It’s loaded with eggs, sausage, and cheese, all baked together for a warm and filling meal.
It’s easy to make—a perfect dish for breakfast or brunch gatherings. I love making it the night before and just popping it in the oven in the morning! 🥳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Breakfast Sausage: You can use mild or spicy pork sausage, depending on your taste. For a lighter option, turkey sausage works well too. If you prefer vegetarian, plant-based sausage is a great alternative!
Eggs: Large eggs are ideal for this casserole. If you need an alternative for dietary reasons, try using egg substitutes or aquafaba for a vegan version.
Milk: Whole milk adds richness, but you can substitute with 2% or even almond or oat milk for a lighter or dairy-free option. Each will change the flavor slightly, so be mindful of that!
Hash Brown Potatoes: Frozen hash browns are convenient, but you can use fresh grated potatoes if you prefer. Just make sure to squeeze out any excess moisture to avoid a soggy casserole.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar is classic, but feel free to mix it up! Monterey Jack or a combination of cheeses adds a tasty twist. For less fat, reduce the cheese quantity or choose a lower-fat option.
How Do You Ensure the Eggs Set Perfectly?
Getting the eggs just right in a casserole can be tricky. Here are some tips to make sure they set perfectly:
- Whisk the eggs well with milk before pouring; this adds air and helps it rise.
- Don’t skip baking uncovered—this helps the top become golden and prevents excess moisture.
- Test for doneness by inserting a knife into the center; it should come out clean when ready.
- Let the casserole sit for a few minutes after baking—this makes it easier to slice and helps with the texture.
Breakfast Sausage Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1 pound breakfast sausage (mild or spicy pork sausage)
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
- 4 cups frozen hash brown potatoes (shredded or cubed)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
For Garnish:
- Chopped fresh parsley
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Breakfast Sausage Casserole takes approximately 15 minutes for prep and about 45-55 minutes to bake. Total time is around 1 hour and 10 minutes from start to finish, making it a fantastic option for brunches or a cozy family breakfast!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take a 9×13-inch baking dish and lightly grease it with cooking spray or a bit of butter to prevent sticking.
2. Cook the Sausage:
In a large skillet, cook the breakfast sausage over medium heat. Use a spoon to break it up as it cooks, until it’s browned and no longer pink. Once done, drain any excess grease to keep the casserole from becoming too oily.
3. Layer the Hash Browns:
Evenly spread the frozen hash brown potatoes in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. This creates a delicious base for your casserole.
4. Add the Sausage:
Sprinkle the cooked sausage evenly over the layer of hash browns. It’s going to add a lot of flavor!
5. Whisk the Eggs:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if you’re using it). Make sure everything is combined nicely.
6. Combine Layers:
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the sausage and hash browns in the baking dish. This way, every bite will have that wonderful eggy goodness!
7. Cheese It Up:
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top of the casserole. This will create a delicious cheesy crust as it bakes.
8. Bake to Perfection:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 45-55 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the eggs are set and the top is golden and slightly bubbly.
9. Cool and Slice:
Once out of the oven, let the casserole cool for a few minutes. This helps it firm up a bit, making it easier to slice into squares.
10. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, add a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness. Enjoy your warm and hearty breakfast sausage casserole!
This hearty casserole is perfect for serving a crowd or for preparing ahead of time. Enjoy it with toast or fresh fruit for a balanced meal!
Can I Use Turkey Sausage Instead of Pork?
Absolutely! Turkey sausage is a great leaner alternative and works just as well in this casserole. Just cook it the same way as you would pork sausage.
Can I Prepare This Casserole the Night Before?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole the night before and store it in the fridge. Just be sure to cover it tightly. In the morning, bake it straight from the fridge; you may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through. For better texture, oven reheating is recommended.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Casserole?
Definitely! Feel free to add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms to the sausage layer for extra flavor and nutrition. Just make sure to drain any excess moisture to prevent sogginess.