This Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole is a warm and filling dish that combines crispy sausage, fluffy eggs, and melted cheese. It’s like breakfast in a cozy blanket! 😋
I love making this casserole when friends visit. It’s super easy—just mix everything in a dish and bake! Perfect for lazy mornings or any brunch gathering. Everyone will ask for seconds!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Breakfast Sausage: You can use either mild or spicy sausage based on your taste. If you’re looking to cut fat, turkey sausage is a great substitute. I prefer the classic pork sausage for its rich flavor.
Eggs: Large eggs are a must for this dish. For a dairy-free version, you can replace eggs with a mix of tofu and nutritional yeast, or use egg replacements available in stores.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar gives a nice sharp flavor. If cheddar isn’t your favorite, you can swap it with Monterey Jack or even a blend of your favorite cheeses. I sometimes mix in pepper jack for a kick!
Hash Browns: Frozen hash browns are super convenient. If you don’t have them, use fresh grated potatoes—just make sure to squeeze out excess moisture. I find that this adds great texture!
Bell Peppers and Onions: Feel free to use any color of bell pepper, or even zucchini or spinach for a veggie swap. If you’re short on fresh vegetables, use frozen mixed veggies instead.
How Do You Ensure Your Casserole is Cooked Evenly?
Baking evenly is key to a great casserole, and here’s how to achieve that. Make sure to mix all your ingredients well before pouring into the baking dish. This ensures that every bite is flavorful!
- Combine ingredients but don’t overmix. This helps to keep the texture nice.
- Spread the mixture evenly in the baking dish for uniform cooking.
- Check for doneness by inserting a knife in the center. If it comes out clean, it’s done!
Lastly, allowing it to sit for 5 minutes before cutting helps it set, making slicing easier.
Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Meat and Dairy:
- 1 pound breakfast sausage (mild or spicy, as preferred)
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Vegetables:
- 1 cup diced red bell pepper
- 1 cup diced onion
Base:
- 3 cups frozen hash browns (thawed)
Seasoning and Garnish:
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Cooking spray or butter (for greasing the baking dish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole takes about 15 minutes to prep and 45-50 minutes to bake. In total, you’ll need about 1 hour, which is perfect for a breakfast that can feed a crowd or a cozy family brunch!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Next, grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking. This will be the cozy home for your casserole!
2. Cook the Sausage:
In a skillet over medium heat, add the breakfast sausage. Cook it until it’s browned and fully cooked through, breaking it apart into crumbles with a spatula. Once done, drain any excess grease and set the sausage aside for later.
3. Sauté the Veggies:
In the same skillet, you can toss in your diced onion and red bell pepper. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes, just until they soften. This step adds great flavor to your casserole!
4. Mix the Egg Base:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper until everything is well combined. This mixture will bind all your ingredients together.
5. Combine Everything:
To the egg mixture, add the thawed hash browns, cooked sausage, and the sautéed onions and peppers. Also, mix in 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese. Gently toss it all together to combine without breaking the hash browns too much.
6. Pour into the Baking Dish:
Carefully pour your mixture into the greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Don’t worry, it will all come together beautifully as it bakes!
7. Add the Cheese Topping:
Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top. This will create a delicious, golden crust as it bakes!
8. Bake:
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is golden and bubbly. The aroma will be incredible!
9. Cool and Slice:
Once baked, take the casserole out of the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes. This little break helps the casserole set up, making it easier to cut into squares.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with some freshly chopped parsley if you like, then serve warm. Enjoy your hearty, cheesy breakfast casserole—it’s a delightful way to start your day!
Can I Use Turkey Sausage Instead of Pork?
Absolutely! Turkey sausage is a great alternative if you prefer a leaner option. It will still provide that delicious savory flavor you love in the casserole.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole the night before. Just assemble it without baking, cover it, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, pop it in the oven and bake it as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
What Should I Do with Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave or place the entire casserole back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in other veggies like spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms. Just make sure to sauté any fresh vegetables beforehand to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.