This Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole is a morning delight! Packed with savory sausage, fluffy eggs, and lots of gooey cheese, it’s a great way to start your day.
I love making this on weekends when I have friends over. It’s so easy to prepare—just mix everything together and pop it in the oven. Plus, it smells amazing as it bakes!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Breakfast Sausage: I love using pork sausage for its rich flavor. You can swap it for turkey or chicken sausage if you want a lighter option, or even a plant-based sausage for a vegetarian choice!
Eggs: Eggs form the base of this casserole, providing richness and protein. You can replace some eggs with egg whites or use a plant-based egg replacement, especially for a healthier dish.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar is a classic choice here. I use sharp cheddar for extra flavor. If you’re not a fan of cheddar, gouda, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack can also work well.
Hash Browns: Frozen hash browns make this recipe super easy. If you prefer, you could use freshly shredded potatoes or even tater tots for a fun variation!
Milk: Milk adds creaminess to the eggs. For a dairy-free version, almond milk or oat milk makes a great substitute, though the taste may vary slightly.
How Do You Cook the Perfect Breakfast Casserole?
Here’s how to ensure your casserole turns out just right! The key is balancing cooking times and knowing when it’s done.
- Always preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) for an even bake.
- Mix the eggs and milk well to avoid any clumps; whisk vigorously!
- Let the hash browns thaw completely. If they’re still frozen, the casserole might not cook evenly.
- After adding the egg mixture, keep an eye on the casserole the last 10 minutes of baking. Look for a golden top and a firm center.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. This helps it hold together better!
Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1 lb (450g) breakfast sausage, browned and crumbled
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 2 cups milk
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 4 cups frozen hash browns (thawed)
For Garnish (Optional):
- 2 tbsp chopped green onions
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 15 minutes for preparation and around 45-55 minutes for baking. Including the cooling time, plan for about 1 hour and 15 minutes from start to finish, and it’s worth every minute for a delicious breakfast!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, get your oven ready by preheating it to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your casserole will bake evenly throughout. While the oven warms up, grease a 9×13 inch baking dish so nothing sticks!
2. Cook the Sausage:
In a skillet over medium heat, place the breakfast sausage. Cook it until it’s browned and fully cooked through, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Once done, drain any excess grease and set the sausage aside to cool.
3. Mix the Egg Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, crack the 8 eggs and pour in 2 cups of milk. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Whisk everything together until it’s well mixed and frothy. This will create a tasty custard for your casserole!
4. Prepare the Hash Browns:
Take the thawed hash browns and spread them evenly across the bottom of your greased baking dish. This will form the base layer of your casserole.
5. Add the Sausage and Cheese:
Now, sprinkle half of the crumbled sausage over the hash browns. Then, take 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and spread it on top of the sausage.
6. Pour the Egg Mixture:
Carefully pour the egg mixture over all the layers in the baking dish, making sure to cover everything evenly. This will allow all the flavors to meld together as it bakes.
7. Top with Remaining Sausage and Cheese:
Now, sprinkle the remaining sausage on top, followed by the last cup of shredded cheddar cheese. This will create a melty, cheesy top layer!
8. Bake the Casserole:
Place your casserole in the oven and bake for 45-55 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden brown and the center is set. Keep an eye on it towards the end to prevent over-baking.
9. Cool and Slice:
After baking, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 5-10 minutes. This cooling time helps it firm up, making it easier to slice.
10. Garnish and Serve:
If you like, sprinkle some chopped green onions on top for a bit of freshness. Serve warm, and enjoy this delicious cheesy sausage breakfast casserole!
Can I Use Different Types of Sausage?
Absolutely! You can use turkey sausage, chicken sausage, or even a plant-based sausage to meet your dietary preferences. Just ensure it’s cooked through before adding it to the casserole!
Can I Prepare This Casserole the Night Before?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Just be sure to cover it tightly. In the morning, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can reheat individual portions in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
What Can I Serve with This Casserole?
This dish pairs beautifully with fresh fruit, a simple green salad, or even pancakes for a hearty breakfast spread. It’s versatile, so feel free to mix and match based on your mood!