Starting your day with a hearty breakfast can set the tone for the rest of your morning. If you're looking for a simple yet satisfying meal, this breakfast casserole with hash browns and eggs is the perfect choice. Packed with delicious ingredients like sausage, cheese, and veggies, it's ideal for busy mornings, family gatherings, or even special occasions like Christmas morning.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
This hash brown breakfast casserole is easy to prepare, full of flavor, and can even be made ahead of time. Whether you prefer pork sausage, turkey sausage, or diced ham, this dish can be customized to suit your taste buds. Plus, with a variety of cheeses like Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, and sharp cheddar, every bite is rich and savory.
Ingredients You'll Need
To make this delicious best breakfast casserole, hash browns & eggs recipe, gather the following ingredients:
Base Ingredients:
- 1 bag (30 oz) frozen shredded hash browns (thawed)
- 1 lb breakfast sausage (pork or turkey sausage, cooked and crumbled)
- 1 cup diced ham (optional)
- 1 cup bell peppers (diced)
- 2 cups Colby Jack cheese (or your favorite cheese blend)
- 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup Pepper Jack cheese (for a spicy kick)
Egg Mixture:
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Baking Dish
Grease a large casserole dish or baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking. This ensures your breakfast casserole recipe turns out perfectly.
- Layer the Ingredients
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- Spread the thawed frozen shredded hash browns evenly in the bottom of the dish.
- Sprinkle the cooked breakfast sausage (or turkey sausage) and diced ham over the hash browns.
- Add the diced bell peppers for a pop of color and flavor.
- Sprinkle the cheese blend evenly over the top.
- Make the Egg Mixture
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- In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Carefully pour the egg mixture over the layers in the casserole dish, ensuring it covers all the ingredients.
- Bake the Casserole
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- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cover the dish with foil or plastic wrap to retain moisture during baking.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the top is golden brown and the eggs are fully set.
- Let It Rest and Serve
Allow the casserole to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps the layers settle and makes slicing easier.
Tips for the Best Breakfast Casserole
- Make-Ahead Option: Assemble the casserole the night before, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. In the morning, simply pop it in the oven.
- Add More Flavor: Try adding diced onions, mushrooms, or spinach for extra texture and nutrition.
- Cheese Variations: Mix and match Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, and sharp cheddar for your perfect flavor profile.
Health Benefits of Key Ingredients
This casserole isn't just tasty—it can also help support your well-being with nutritious ingredients:
- Eggs: A rich source of protein that can help maintain energy levels.
- Bell Peppers: Packed with vitamins and antioxidants, they offer vibrant color and nutrients.
- Cheese: Provides calcium, which can help maintain bone strength.
- Turkey Sausage: A leaner protein alternative that can help balance your meal.
Serving Suggestions
This breakfast casserole pairs well with fresh fruit, toast, or a light salad. It's also perfect as a stand-alone dish for brunch or holiday gatherings.
Storing and Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftover casserole in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Wrap individual portions in plastic wrap and foil for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Warm slices in the microwave for quick meals or heat in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes for best results.
Final Thoughts
This easy hash brown breakfast casserole recipe is a fantastic way to feed a crowd or prepare a make-ahead breakfast for busy mornings. With its comforting flavors, cheesy goodness, and customizable ingredients, it's bound to become a family favorite. Whether you serve it on Christmas morning or during a weekend brunch, this dish brings warmth and flavor to every bite. Enjoy!
