Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cooking Notes
- Variations
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Cheesy Sausage Hash Brown Casserole is an all-time comfort food classic that combines crispy hash browns, seasoned sausage, and melty cheese into one irresistible dish. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dinner, this casserole is easy to make and a crowd-pleaser every time. It’s also versatile—whether you’re hosting a family brunch, celebrating a special occasion, or simply looking for a delicious dinner idea, this casserole fits the bill.
With simple ingredients that come together to create a rich and hearty meal, this recipe is guaranteed to be a hit. It’s also great for meal prep and makes excellent leftovers.
Ingredients
For the Casserole:
- 1 lb ground breakfast sausage (mild or spicy, depending on preference)
- 1 (30 oz) bag frozen hash browns (shredded or cubed), thawed
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, finely chopped (optional)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken soup)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray or butter.
2. Cook the Sausage
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground sausage until browned and fully cooked, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Once the sausage is cooked through, remove it from the skillet and set it aside. Drain any excess grease if needed.
3. Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and bell pepper (if using) and sauté for about 4-5 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened. Remove from the skillet and set aside with the sausage.
4. Combine the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed hash browns, cooked sausage, sautéed onion and bell pepper, 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything until well combined.
5. Assemble the Casserole
Pour the hash brown and sausage mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top. Drizzle the melted butter over the top of the casserole for extra richness and to help it become golden brown.
6. Bake the Casserole
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is hot and bubbly. Let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving.
7. Garnish and Serve
Garnish the casserole with freshly chopped parsley if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Notes
- Sausage: You can use any type of sausage you like—breakfast sausage, Italian sausage, or even turkey sausage. Adjust the seasoning based on the type of sausage you use.
- Hash Browns: Both shredded hash browns and diced hash browns work well for this recipe. If you prefer a slightly chunkier texture, opt for diced hash browns.
- Cream of Soup: Feel free to substitute the cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken or cream of celery soup for a different flavor.
- Cheese Choices: While cheddar and mozzarella are used here, you can experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or Swiss for a unique twist.
Variations
- Spicy Sausage Casserole: Use spicy sausage and add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the mixture for a kick of heat.
- Vegetarian Version: Omit the sausage and add extra veggies like mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini. You can also substitute the sausage with vegetarian sausage or sautéed tofu crumbles.
- Mexican-Inspired Hash Brown Casserole: Add a can of green chilies, swap the cream of mushroom soup for cream of chicken, and use pepper jack cheese. Top with salsa and serve with a dollop of sour cream.
- Bacon and Sausage Casserole: For added flavor, cook some crispy bacon and crumble it into the hash brown mixture along with the sausage.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole the night before, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and bake as directed. You may need to add an extra 5-10 minutes of baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Absolutely! You can freeze the unbaked casserole by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed. You may need to add some additional baking time if it’s still slightly cold.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave or reheat the entire dish in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?
Yes, you can use fresh potatoes if you prefer. Grate or dice the potatoes and rinse them under cold water to remove excess starch. Be sure to dry them thoroughly before using them in the recipe.
What can I serve with this casserole?
This casserole is quite hearty on its own but pairs wonderfully with scrambled eggs, a fresh green salad, or even a side of roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Cheesy Sausage Hash Brown Casserole is a comforting, hearty dish that’s perfect for any time of day. With its blend of savory sausage, crispy potatoes, creamy soup, and plenty of melted cheese, it’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, brunch, or dinner, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite.
The best part is how easy it is to make—and with simple ingredients that come together quickly, it’s a great go-to recipe for busy days or lazy weekends. Enjoy the cheesy goodness and warmth that this casserole brings to the table!
Let me know if you’d like any more variations or additional tips for this recipe
