Sausage Hashbrown Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner. This casserole features crispy hashbrowns, savory sausage, and gooey cheese, all combined in a creamy sauce and baked to golden perfection. It’s easy to make and is always a crowd-pleaser, making it ideal for gatherings or weekend family breakfasts. Whether you’re feeding a hungry crowd or looking for a satisfying meal to start your day, this Sausage Hashbrown Casserole will hit the spot.
Table of Contents
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Tips for Perfect Sausage Hashbrown Casserole
- Recipe Variations
- FAQs
- Serving Suggestions
- Conclusion
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground breakfast sausage
- 1 package (30 oz) frozen shredded hashbrowns, thawed
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
- Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat and set aside.
- Mix the Casserole Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed hashbrowns, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, milk, chopped onion, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. Stir until everything is well mixed.
- Add Sausage and Cheese: Stir in the cooked sausage and 1 1/2 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese, reserving 1/2 cup for topping.
- Assemble the Casserole: Spread the hashbrown mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese over the top.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese on top is golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve: Let the casserole cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired.
Tips for Perfect Sausage Hashbrown Casserole
- Thaw the Hashbrowns: Make sure the hashbrowns are completely thawed before mixing to ensure even cooking.
- Use Freshly Grated Cheese: Freshly grated cheese melts better and creates a creamier texture compared to pre-shredded cheese.
- Let It Rest: Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes before serving to make it easier to slice and serve.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Sausage Casserole: Use spicy breakfast sausage and add 1/4 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes for a kick of heat.
- Vegetable Hashbrown Casserole: Add 1 cup of diced bell peppers or chopped spinach to the mixture for added color and nutrition.
- Cheesy Bacon Casserole: Substitute half of the sausage with cooked, crumbled bacon for a delicious bacon and sausage combo.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance. Cover and refrigerate until ready to bake. You may need to add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the refrigerator.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Q: Can I freeze this casserole?
A: Yes, you can freeze the casserole before or after baking. If freezing before baking, assemble it and wrap tightly. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking. If freezing after baking, let it cool completely, then wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven until heated through.
Serving Suggestions
- With Fresh Fruit: Serve this casserole with a side of fresh fruit, such as berries or melon, for a balanced breakfast.
- With Biscuits: Pair with warm biscuits or toast to soak up the creamy sauce.
- As a Brunch Spread: Include this casserole in a brunch spread alongside scrambled eggs, bacon, and fresh juice for a complete meal.
Sausage Hashbrown Casserole is a delicious and comforting dish that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner. With its creamy texture, crispy hashbrowns, savory sausage, and gooey cheese, this casserole is sure to be a favorite with family and friends. It’s easy to make, can be prepared ahead of time, and is always a crowd-pleaser.
Feel free to customize this casserole with your favorite ingredients to make it your own. Share it with loved ones, and enjoy the comforting flavors of this hearty breakfast dish!
