Looking for the perfect breakfast dish to kickstart your day? This Country Breakfast Hashbrown Casserole is a hearty, flavorful, and soul-satisfying way to bring everyone to the table. Packed with crispy hashbrowns, savory sausage, fluffy eggs, and gooey layers of melted cheese, this casserole delivers the comfort of a diner breakfast with the ease of a one-dish recipe. Whether you're feeding a family or hosting a brunch with friends, this dish checks all the boxes.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prep: Minimal prep time means you'll spend more time relaxing and less time cooking.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Assemble the night before and pop it in the oven the next morning for a no-fuss breakfast.
- Versatile: Customize it with your favorite breakfast ingredients like bacon, veggies, or even a sprinkle of hot sauce.
Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need for this easy breakfast bake (serves 6-8):
- 1 bag (32 oz) frozen shredded hashbrowns, thawed
- 1 lb breakfast sausage (pork, turkey, or vegan alternative)
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup milk (whole, 2%, or dairy-free options)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, plus more for topping
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional toppings: chopped green onions, salsa, hot sauce
Equipment Needed
- A 9x13-inch baking dish
- Large skillet
- Mixing bowl
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat & Prepare
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish lightly with cooking spray or butter.
2. Cook the Sausage
Heat a skillet over medium heat, add the sausage, and crumble it as it cooks. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease.
3. Sauté the Onions
Using the same skillet, sauté the diced onion in the sausage drippings until translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Set aside.
4. Combine the Base
In a large mixing bowl, mix the thawed hashbrowns, cooked sausage, sautéed onions, 1 cup of cheddar, 1 cup of Monterey Jack cheese, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is evenly distributed.
5. Whisk the Eggs
In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until fully combined. Pour the egg mixture over the hashbrown mixture and gently stir to combine.
6. Assemble the Casserole
Spread the hashbrown mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle extra cheddar cheese on top for maximum cheesiness.
7. Bake to Perfection
Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the casserole is golden on top and the eggs are set. To check, insert a knife into the center—it should come out clean.
8. Garnish and Serve
Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to rest for 5 minutes before serving. Top with green onions, salsa, or a dash of hot sauce if you like an extra kick.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Hashbrown Casserole
- Go Grease-Free: Make sure to drain your cooked sausage well to avoid a greasy casserole.
- Even Cooking: Thaw and dry your hashbrowns thoroughly for the best texture.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Freeze leftovers in individual portions for quick breakfast options throughout the week.
Variations
- Vegetarian Delight: Swap the sausage for plant-based alternatives or load up on diced bell peppers, mushrooms, and spinach.
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the egg mixture for some heat.
- Double the Cheese: Experiment with other cheeses like Gouda, pepper jack, or mozzarella for a cheesy twist.
This Country Breakfast Hashbrown Casserole is seriously the breakfast of champions. Whether it’s a Sunday brunch staple or an easy weekday meal, it’s guaranteed to leave you craving just one more bite.
Try it today and watch it become a family favorite! If you give this recipe a try, tag us in your photos with #CountryCasserole and share your breakfast masterpiece!
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