Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This breakfast casserole combines all the classic breakfast flavors into one easy-to-make dish. The crispy hash browns provide a solid base, while the crumbled sausage adds savory richness. With plenty of cheddar cheese and the option to add herbs and spices like Italian seasoning, each bite is comforting and delicious. You can prep it the night before, so it’s ready to bake in the morning, making it an ideal choice for busy mornings or entertaining guests. It’s a satisfying meal that feeds a crowd and saves you time, all while being versatile enough to customize to your preferences.

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 20 ounces shredded hash browns, thawed

• 1 pound ground beef, cooked, crumbled, and drained

• ¼ cup finely diced onion

• ½ red bell pepper, diced

• ½ green bell pepper, diced

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided

• 8 eggs

• 12 ounces evaporated milk (1 can, or 1 ⅓ cups milk)

• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning or your favorite herbs and spices (optional)

• ½ teaspoon Kosher salt (or to taste)

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (if baking immediately). Grease a 9x13-inch pan or a 3qt baking dish, or spray with cooking spray.

2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, until no pink remains. Drain any excess fat.

3. In the prepared dish, add the thawed hash browns, cooked sausage, onions, bell peppers, and 1 ½ cups of cheese. Gently mix everything together and spread evenly in the pan.

4. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, evaporated milk, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning (if using) until well combined.

5. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the hashbrown mixture and sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top.

6. Cover the dish with foil and refrigerate overnight if desired, or bake immediately.

7. Bake uncovered for 55-65 minutes or until the casserole is cooked through and golden brown on top.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8 servings

• Prep time: 20 minutes

• Cook time: 1 hour 10 minutes

• Total time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Skip the sausage and replace it with your favorite vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini.

• Meat Options: If you prefer a different meat, you can swap ground beef with breakfast sausage, turkey sausage, or ham for a different flavor.

• Cheese Options: Feel free to mix and match cheeses such as Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or pepper jack for extra flavor.

• Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or use spicy sausage to give the casserole a bit of heat.

Storage/Reheating

• Storing Leftovers: This casserole stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days. Let it cool completely before covering and refrigerating.

• Reheating: To reheat, simply microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, or bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

How do I make Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole ahead of time?

You can assemble the casserole the night before and refrigerate it overnight. Then, just bake it the next morning when you're ready to serve.

Can I use frozen hashbrowns for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen hashbrowns. Just make sure to thaw them before adding them to the casserole.

Can I substitute the ground beef with other meats?

Absolutely! You can swap out the ground beef for ground turkey, sausage, or even leftover ham.

Can I freeze the casserole?

Yes, you can freeze the assembled casserole before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.

How do I know when the casserole is done?

The casserole is done when it is golden brown on top and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.

Can I add more vegetables to this casserole?

Yes! Feel free to add mushrooms, spinach, or any other veggies you enjoy for extra flavor and nutrients.

How can I make this casserole spicier?

You can use spicy sausage, add diced jalapeños, or sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top before baking to give it a spicy kick.

What is the best way to reheat leftovers?

To reheat, microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes or bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes until hot.

Can I use regular milk instead of evaporated milk?

Yes, you can use regular milk if you prefer, but the casserole may be slightly less creamy.

How long does Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole last in the fridge?

The casserole will last in the fridge for about 3-4 days when stored properly in an airtight container.

Conclusion

Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole is a perfect dish for any occasion, whether you're hosting a brunch or looking for a quick and satisfying breakfast. With its blend of hash browns, savory sausage, cheese, and eggs, it’s a versatile recipe that can be customized to suit your taste. Plus, it’s easy to make ahead, so you can enjoy a hearty meal with minimal effort. Give it a try, and you’ll see why it’s a breakfast favorite!