This Hashbrown Egg Casserole is cheesy, hearty, and perfect for breakfast or brunch! With crispy hashbrowns, fluffy eggs, and lots of gooey cheese, it’s a crowd-pleaser.
Honestly, it’s so easy to make—just mix everything in a dish and bake. I love serving it with some fresh fruit on the side. Makes my mornings feel fancy! 🍳🥔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Hashbrowns: Frozen shredded hashbrowns save a lot of prep time! If you prefer homemade, grate fresh potatoes and soak them to release starch. This dish also works well with diced potatoes if you like a chunkier texture.
Onion: Diced onion adds flavor, but if you’re not a fan, you can skip it or use green onions for a milder taste. Chopped bell peppers can be a great substitute, adding color and sweetness.
Sausage: Breakfast sausage adds a delicious heartiness. You can replace it with cooked bacon, ham, or even a meatless sausage option for a vegetarian version.
Cheddar Cheese: While cheddar is classic, feel free to mix it up! Pepper jack cheese gives a spicy kick while Monterey Jack or mozzarella offers different flavors. Use what you love!
Milk: Whole milk gives the best creaminess, but you can use low-fat milk, almond milk, or even a non-dairy option to accommodate dietary preferences.
How Do You Ensure Your Eggs Are Perfectly Set?
Getting the eggs just right is key for this casserole! Here’s how to make sure they’re cooked perfectly:
- Mix the eggs thoroughly with the milk and seasonings. This ensures even distribution.
- Bake uncovered to allow moisture to escape, which helps set the eggs nicely.
- Check for doneness after 45 minutes by inserting a knife in the center; if it comes out clean, it’s ready!
- Let it cool for a few minutes before cutting. This helps everything hold together better.
How to Make Hashbrown Egg Casserole?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 (30 oz) package frozen shredded hashbrowns, thawed
- 1/2 cup diced onion (optional)
- 1 cup cooked breakfast sausage, crumbled
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Hashbrown Egg Casserole takes about 15 minutes of prep time and then needs 45-55 minutes in the oven to bake. Plus, let it cool for a few minutes before you slice it. In total, you’ll be enjoying warm, cheesy goodness in about an hour and a half!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating, grab a 9×13 inch baking dish and grease it lightly with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Hashbrowns:
Spread the thawed hashbrowns evenly across the bottom of your greased baking dish. Make sure they cover the bottom well so every bite has that delicious crispy texture.
3. Add Tasty Layers:
If you’re using onion, sprinkle the diced onion evenly over the hashbrowns. Next, add in the crumbled cooked sausage and 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese. Yum, this is where the flavor starts to build!
4. Mix the Egg Base:
In a large bowl, gather the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if you’re using it). Whisk everything together until well mixed and frothy. You want this mixture to be nice and combined to create the perfect custard-like texture for your casserole.
5. Assemble the Casserole:
Carefully pour the egg mixture over the hashbrown, sausage, and cheese layers in the baking dish. Take your time here to ensure it covers everything evenly.
6. Add the Final Toppings:
Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese generously on top. This will create a delicious cheesy crust as it bakes!
7. Bake to Perfection:
Place your casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 45-55 minutes. Keep an eye on it, and you’ll know it’s done when the eggs are set and the top is golden brown.
8. Cool, Slice, and Serve:
Once baked, take it out of the oven and let it cool for about 5-10 minutes. This waiting time helps it firm up a bit. Then, slice it into squares and serve warm, garnished with fresh chopped parsley for a touch of color!
Enjoy your hearty, cheesy Hashbrown Egg Casserole for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner. It’s sure to be a hit! 🥄✨
Can I Prepare This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance. Just cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before popping it in the oven. This ensures even cooking!
What Can I Substitute for Breakfast Sausage?
If you want to swap out the sausage, you can use crumbled bacon, diced ham, or a plant-based sausage for a vegetarian option. You can also skip the meat entirely for a lighter version, and perhaps add more veggies like spinach or bell peppers instead!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Yes, feel free to experiment! Other cheeses like Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even mozzarella will work well. You can mix different cheeses together for even more flavor!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave or warm them in the oven until heated through. For best results, cover with foil to maintain moisture!
