Sausage Hashbrown Casserole

• 1 lb (450g) ground breakfast sausage (mild or spicy)
• 1 (30 oz) bag frozen shredded hash browns, thawed and patted dry
• 1 small onion, finely diced (optional but recommended)
• 2 cups (8 oz) shredded cheddar cheese

For the Custard:

• 8 large eggs
• 2 cups (480ml) whole milk or half-and-half
• 1 tsp dry mustard (or Dijon)
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper

💡 Pro Tips:

• Pat hash browns dry—excess moisture makes casserole soggy.
• Cook and drain sausage thoroughly—no one wants greasy eggs!
• Use freshly shredded cheese—pre-shredded won’t melt as smoothly.

Step-by-Step Instructions (Hearty, Hands-Off, Foolproof)

1. Cook the Sausage

• In a skillet over medium heat, cook sausage until browned. Add onion if using; cook until soft. Drain well; cool slightly.

2. Layer the Casserole

• Spread hash browns evenly in a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
• Top with cooked sausage mixture, then sprinkle with cheddar cheese.

3. Make the Custard

• In a bowl, whisk eggs, milk, mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
• Pour evenly over the casserole.

4. Bake to Perfection

• Option 1 (Fresh): Bake immediately at 350°F (175°C) for 45–55 minutes, until center is set and top is golden.
• Option 2 (Overnight): Cover and refrigerate overnight. Bake 55–65 minutes (no need to thaw).

5. Rest & Serve

• Let rest 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with green onions or hot sauce if desired.

Serving Suggestions

• 🍳 Classic pairing: With fresh fruit, toast, or buttered biscuits
• 🥓 Extra hearty: Top with crumbled bacon or avocado slices
• ☕ Drink pairing: Strong coffee, orange juice, or Bloody Mary
• 🌶️ Spicy kick: Serve with salsa or pickled jalapeños

Make-Ahead & Storage Tips

• Fridge: Assemble unbaked; cover and refrigerate up to 24 hours.
• Freeze: Bake, cool, then freeze up to 2 months. Reheat covered at 350°F.
• Leftovers: Keep up to 4 days—reheat in oven or microwave.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Gluten-free?A: Yes! Most sausage and hash browns are GF—but check labels (some brands add fillers).

Q: Vegetarian version?A: Use plant-based sausage and dairy-free cheese/milk.

Q: Soggy bottom?A: Ensure hash browns are thawed and patted dry—this is key!

Q: Can I add veggies?A: Yes! Stir in 1 cup spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms with the sausage.

❤️ The Heart of the Casserole

Sausage Hash Brown Casserole isn’t just breakfast—it’s a warm embrace on a plate. It’s what you make for holiday mornings, post-church gatherings, or “I need fuel” weekdays. Simple, generous, and deeply satisfying.

So layer those potatoes, pour that custard, and bake with love. Because the best meals aren’t complicated—they’re hearty, humble, and made with love.

“Good casserole doesn’t need a recipe—it just needs sausage, potatoes, and someone hungry.” 🥔✨