If you’re looking for a hearty, crowd-pleasing dish to start your day, this easy breakfast casserole recipe is the answer. Packed with eggs, cheese, sausage, and hash browns, it’s perfect for brunch gatherings, holiday mornings, or even weekly meal prep. With endless customization options, you can make this breakfast casserole your own. Let’s dive into how to create this delicious dish step-by-step.
Ingredients for Breakfast Casserole
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1 pound breakfast sausage (crumbled and cooked)
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6 large eggs
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2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese blend)
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3 cups frozen hash browns (thawed)
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1 cup milk (whole milk or any dairy-free alternative)
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1½ tsp salt
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½ tsp black pepper
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½ cup diced bell peppers (optional, for added color and flavor)
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½ cup chopped onions (optional)
Optional Add-Ins for Variety
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Sliced mushrooms for an earthy flavor.
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Diced ham or cooked bacon instead of sausage.
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Hot sauce or chili flakes for a spicy kick.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Breakfast Casserole
1. Preheat Your Oven
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Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
2. Cook the Sausage
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In a large skillet, cook the breakfast sausage over medium heat until browned and fully cooked.
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Drain any excess grease and set aside.
3. Prepare the Egg Mixture
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In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper.
4. Layer the Ingredients
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Spread the thawed hash browns evenly across the bottom of the greased baking dish.
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Sprinkle the cooked sausage over the hash browns.
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Add any optional vegetables, such as bell peppers and onions.
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Pour the egg mixture evenly over the top.
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Sprinkle shredded cheese over the entire casserole.
5. Bake the Casserole
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Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown.
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Let the casserole cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Tips for the Best Breakfast Casserole
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Make It Ahead: Prepare the casserole the night before and refrigerate. In the morning, bake as directed.
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-shredded.
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Test for Doneness: Insert a knife into the center of the casserole; if it comes out clean, the eggs are fully cooked.
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Customize to Your Taste: Swap ingredients to suit dietary preferences or use what you have on hand.
Why This Breakfast Casserole Recipe is a Favorite
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Feeds a Crowd: Serves 6-8 people, making it ideal for gatherings.
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Great for Meal Prep: Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
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Versatile: Easily adaptable for dietary needs or ingredient availability.
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Minimal Cleanup: A one-dish recipe that simplifies your morning routine.
Final Thoughts
This easy breakfast casserole recipe is a lifesaver for busy mornings or when you’re hosting brunch. With simple ingredients and customizable options, it’s a dish that everyone will love. Try it today and enjoy the perfect blend of flavors and textures in every bite. Happy cooking!
