Wake up to the perfect combination of crispy hash browns, savory sausage, melty cheese, and fluffy eggs in this hearty breakfast casserole. Whether you're hosting brunch or prepping meals for the week, this dish is a warm and satisfying way to start your day.
130-ounce package shredded hash brown potatoes (diced works, but shredded is preferred)
½cupbutter1 stick
1poundbulk breakfast sausage
½small onionfinely diced
½green bell pepperchopped
½red bell pepperchopped
1½cupsshredded Monterey Jack cheesepacked
1½cupsshredded sharp cheddar cheesepacked
8large eggs
1⅓cupshalf-and-halfcream, evaporated milk, or whole milk*
1teaspoonseasoned salt
½teaspoonkosher saltuse ¼ teaspoon if substituting table salt
½teaspoonblack pepper
¼teaspoondry mustardoptional
Salt and pepperfor seasoning the potatoes
Oil or butterfor greasing the baking dish
Instructions
Prepare the Hash Brown Layer
Preheat your oven to 400°F. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
Evenly spread the frozen shredded hash browns in the prepared dish. There’s no need to thaw them beforehand. In a small microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter, then drizzle it over the potatoes. Use a spatula or your hands to toss and coat the potatoes well. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Transfer the dish to the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the potatoes are mostly cooked and the edges begin to turn golden brown. Once done, remove from the oven and reduce the temperature to 350°F.
Cook the Sausage and Vegetables
While the potatoes are baking, chop the onion, green bell pepper, and red bell pepper into small, uniform pieces.
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the breakfast sausage along with the chopped vegetables. Break the sausage into crumbles as it cooks. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until the sausage is browned and cooked through and the onions have softened. Drain any excess grease from the pan.
Spread the sausage mixture evenly over the cooked hash browns. You can leave it as a distinct layer or mix it into the potatoes for an even distribution.
Add the Cheese
Generously sprinkle the Monterey Jack and sharp cheddar cheese over the sausage layer, ensuring even coverage.
Make the Egg Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, half-and-half (or preferred dairy option), seasoned salt, kosher salt, black pepper, and dry mustard (if using). For a smoother mixture, you can blend it in a stand mixer or blender.
Slowly pour the egg mixture over the casserole, making sure it spreads evenly across the surface and soaks through the layers.
Bake the Casserole
Place the dish in the preheated 350°F oven and bake for 35-45 minutes. The casserole is done when the edges turn golden and bubbly, and the center is set with minimal jiggle when gently shaken.
Once baked, remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Nutrition
Calories: 450kcal
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