This Cheesy Hashbrown Egg Casserole is a hearty delight! Loaded with crispy hashbrowns, fluffy eggs, and gooey cheese, it’s perfect for breakfast or brunch.
It’s so simple to make—just mix everything together and bake! I love serving it hot and cheesy, and it always gets smiles at the table. Who can resist? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Hashbrowns: Frozen, shredded hashbrowns are convenient and cook perfectly. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can make your own by grating raw potatoes. Just be sure to squeeze out excess moisture!
Breakfast Sausage: I love using pork sausage for its rich flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, turkey sausage works well too. For a vegetarian version, try using sautéed mushrooms or a plant-based sausage.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar is classic and melts beautifully. If you want a stronger flavor, consider using sharp cheddar. You can also mix in Monterey Jack for a creamier texture or any cheese you enjoy!
Eggs: Fresh, large eggs are best for this dish to ensure fluffiness. You can replace some eggs with egg whites if you want to cut down on fat. Just remember, the texture will be a bit different.
How Do I Ensure My Casserole Turns Out Perfectly Cooked?
Baking the casserole just right can be tricky. Follow these tips to make sure it’s cooked perfectly:
- Preheat the oven thoroughly to 350°F (175°C) to start cooking evenly from the get-go.
- Press down the mixture with a spatula before baking; this helps the egg soak in throughout.
- Keep an eye on the baking time; start checking around 45 minutes. The casserole is done when the eggs are set and the top is golden brown.
- Let it rest after taking it out of the oven. This helps it firm up, making it easier to slice!
Cheesy Hashbrown Egg Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 (30 oz) package frozen shredded hashbrowns, thawed
- 1 lb breakfast sausage, cooked and crumbled
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup chopped onion (optional)
Egg Mixture:
- 10 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Cheesy Hashbrown Egg Casserole will take about 15-20 minutes to prepare and then 45-55 minutes of baking time. After baking, let it rest for about 5-10 minutes before serving. In total, you’re looking at approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats, grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and give it a good greasing with some cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Hashbrown Layer:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed hashbrowns, crumbled breakfast sausage, half of the shredded cheddar cheese, and the chopped onion if you like a little extra flavor. Mix everything together until well combined. This will be the delicious base of your casserole!
3. Whisk the Egg Mixture:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder until well blended. This is the magic that will bind everything together in the oven!
4. Assemble the Casserole:
Now, pour the hashbrown mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it out evenly. Then, pour the egg mixture over it and gently press down with the spatula to help it soak into the hashbrowns and sausage.
5. Add the Cheese Topping:
Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole to create a gooey, cheesy crust when it bakes.
6. Bake Your Casserole:
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the eggs are fully set and the top has turned a lovely golden brown and is bubbly.
7. Let It Rest & Serve:
Once out of the oven, let the casserole rest for about 5-10 minutes. This helps it firm up a bit for easier slicing. Before you serve, garnish with some chopped fresh parsley for a nice pop of color. Then, dig in and enjoy the warm, cheesy goodness!
Enjoy your deliciously comforting Cheesy Hashbrown Egg Casserole, perfect for brunch or any occasion! 🥳
Can I Use Fresh Hashbrowns Instead of Frozen?
Absolutely! If you’re using fresh hashbrowns, be sure to par-cook them in a skillet with a bit of oil until they’re tender and slightly crispy before adding them to the casserole. This will help achieve that perfect texture!
What Can I Substitute for Breakfast Sausage?
If you want to make it lighter or vegetarian, you can substitute the breakfast sausage with turkey sausage or sautéed mushrooms. Adding spinach or bell peppers can also bring extra flavor and nutrients!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole the night before and refrigerate it. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap. When you’re ready to bake in the morning, remove it from the fridge and add about 10-15 extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it cooks through.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. It’s just as delicious the next day!
