Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This breakfast casserole is packed with flavor and incredibly versatile. You can customize it with different meats, cheeses, and vegetables depending on what you have on hand. It's also great for making ahead, which means less work on the morning you're serving it. Whether you're hosting a brunch or preparing a week’s worth of breakfast, this casserole delivers every time. The crispy hashbrowns and creamy eggs create a perfect balance of textures, while the sausage and cheese bring rich, comforting flavors to the table.

Ingredients

• 1 bag (30 oz) frozen hashbrowns, thawed

• 1 lb ground beef

• 1 bell pepper, diced

• 1 small onion, diced

• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

• 8 large eggs

• 1 cup milk

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• Salt and pepper to taste

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

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.

2. Spread the thawed hashbrowns evenly in the bottom of the baking dish.

3. In a skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess grease and add the diced bell pepper and onion. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until softened.

4. Sprinkle the cooked beef and vegetables over the hashbrowns. Top with 1½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese.

5. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the hashbrown and beef mixture in the baking dish.

6. Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top.

7. Bake in the preheated oven for 55-65 minutes, or until a knife inserted into the center comes out clean and the casserole is golden brown.

8. Let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8

• Prep time: 20 minutes

• Cook time: 1 hour 10 minutes

• Total time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Variations

• Meats: Swap out the ground beef for turkey sausage, ham, or another favorite protein.

• Vegetables: Add mushrooms, spinach, or asparagus for added flavor.

• Cheese: Use pepper jack, mozzarella, or any bold cheese to suit your taste.

• Make it vegetarian: Omit the beef and add extra veggies like broccoli or zucchini.

Storage/Reheating

• Storing: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

• Reheating: Reheat individual servings in the microwave or bake in the oven at 350°F until heated through.

• Freezing: You can freeze the casserole for up to 4 months. Wrap individual portions in plastic wrap or foil, and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole the night before?

Yes, this casserole is perfect for making ahead. Simply assemble the casserole the night before, cover it tightly, and refrigerate overnight. Bake it in the morning for a fresh and delicious breakfast.

Can I use frozen hashbrowns?

Yes, frozen hashbrowns work perfectly for this recipe. Just be sure to thaw them before using.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for added spice.

Can I make this casserole without meat?

Yes, you can easily make this casserole vegetarian by omitting the beef and adding extra vegetables like spinach or mushrooms.

How do I prevent the casserole from being soggy?

Ensure that the hashbrowns are thawed and drained properly before adding them to the casserole dish to prevent excess moisture.

Can I use a different type of milk?

Yes, you can use any kind of milk, including whole milk, skim milk, or even a dairy-free alternative like almond milk or oat milk.

Can I make this in a smaller or larger pan?

Yes, adjust the recipe as needed depending on the size of your pan. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Can I make this in the slow cooker?

While this recipe is designed for the oven, you can adapt it for the slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours, or until set and cooked through.

How long will this casserole last in the fridge?

Leftovers will last in the fridge for 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container.

Can I freeze the casserole?

Yes, you can freeze the casserole for up to 4 months. Be sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil or store it in a freezer-safe container.

Conclusion

Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole is the ultimate comfort food to start your day. It's versatile, easy to prepare, and packed with delicious flavors that everyone will love. Whether you're feeding a large crowd or preparing a quick breakfast for the week, this casserole will not disappoint. Make it ahead of time, bake it fresh, and enjoy the cozy, satisfying meal any day of the week.

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