Is there anything better than a warm, cheesy breakfast on a slow winter morning? This Potato Breakfast Casserole is the ultimate way to feed your family without any stress. It fills your kitchen with the most comforting, savory aroma. It is the perfect recipe for those mornings when you want something special.
You will love how this dish brings everyone to the table. It is hearty, filling, and incredibly easy to put together. Whether it is a snowy Saturday or a busy holiday, this bake delivers. Let’s get cooking and make your morning a little brighter.
Why This Recipe Is a Winner
This dish is a total lifesaver for holiday entertaining or lazy weekends. It uses simple ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. You get a complete meal in one pan with minimal cleanup required. It is hearty enough to keep everyone full until lunch time. Plus, kids absolutely love the golden hash brown base and melted cheese.
Simple Cooking Steps
Making this casserole is as easy as layering and pouring. You just brown the meat and whisk a few eggs. The oven does all the heavy lifting for you while you sip coffee. Even if you are a beginner, this recipe is virtually foolproof every time. You can easily scale it up for a larger crowd too.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These are mostly pantry and freezer staples that come together beautifully. Using frozen hash browns is a great time-saving shortcut for busy mornings.
- 32 oz frozen shredded hash browns, thawed
- 1 lb ground pork breakfast sausage
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
Step-by-Step Directions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a large skillet, cook the breakfast sausage until browned and crumbled.
- Drain the excess fat from the sausage carefully.
- Spread the thawed hash browns in an even layer in the dish.
- Distribute the cooked sausage evenly over the hash brown layer.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese uniformly over the sausage.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk eggs, milk, and all spices until combined.
- Pour the egg mixture slowly and evenly over the ingredients.
- Bake for 40 to 45 minutes until the center is set.
- Allow the casserole to rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serve this warm with a side of fresh fruit or berries. A dollop of sour cream or salsa adds a nice zing. For a special brunch, pair it with a hot cup of coffee. It is the perfect centerpiece for a relaxed family breakfast. Set the table and watch it disappear in minutes!
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to four days. To reheat, just pop a slice in the microwave for a minute. For the best texture, use a 350°F oven for ten minutes. This makes it a fantastic option for easy weekday meal prep.
Tips for Best Results
- Thaw your hash browns completely for the best texture.
- Don’t skip draining the sausage fat to keep it light.
- Whisk the eggs thoroughly to ensure a fluffy, even bake.
- Let the dish rest so it slices into perfect squares.
- Use sharp cheddar for the most bold and savory flavor.
- For a holiday twist, add a pinch of nutmeg to eggs.
- Grease your baking dish well to prevent any sticking.
Ways to Switch It Up
- Swap the pork sausage for turkey sausage for a lighter version.
- Add diced bell peppers or onions for a fresh crunch.
- Use pepper jack cheese if you want a little spicy kick.
- Make it vegetarian by using sautéed mushrooms instead of meat.
Common Questions
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the entire dish the night before. Just cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator. In the morning, bake it as directed for a stress-free holiday breakfast.
What if I don’t have frozen hash browns?
You can use thinly sliced or shredded fresh potatoes instead. Just make sure to squeeze out any excess moisture first. This ensures your casserole stays crispy and delicious.
How do I know when it is done?
The center should be firm and not jiggly when shaken. The top will be a beautiful golden brown color. A knife inserted in the middle should come out clean.
I hope this cozy recipe brightens your winter mornings. Give it a try and let every cheesy bite warm you up. Happy cooking!
— Lidia
Potato Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients
- 32 oz frozen shredded hash browns, thawed
- 1 lb ground pork breakfast sausage
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 8 large egg s
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with non-stick spray or butter.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the breakfast sausage until browned and crumbled, then drain the excess fat.
- Spread the thawed hash browns in an even layer at the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Distribute the cooked sausage evenly over the hash brown layer.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese uniformly over the sausage.
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, black pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder until well combined.
- Pour the egg mixture slowly and evenly over the ingredients in the baking dish.
- Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is lightly golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and allow the casserole to rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
