If you are craving a hearty, comforting breakfast that brings everyone to the table with smiles, this Hash Brown Egg Casserole Recipe is your new best friend. It blends crispy hash browns with fluffy eggs, gooey cheddar, and savory sausage or bacon into a golden baked delight that’s perfect for weekend brunches or special family mornings. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug, packed with simple ingredients that somehow come together to create pure magic that can brighten anyone’s day.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering just the right ingredients is key to nailing this Hash Brown Egg Casserole Recipe. Each item brings something vital—a balance of texture, flavor, and color that makes this casserole truly irresistible.
- Frozen hash browns (20-ounce bag): the crispy, golden base that gives the casserole structure and that beloved potato goodness.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1½ cups): melts beautifully to add creamy, sharp flavor and that irresistible gooey texture.
- Cooked breakfast sausage (1 cup): or substitute with crumbled bacon or diced ham for savory, meaty richness.
- Large eggs (8): the binder that holds everything together with fluffiness and protein power.
- Whole milk (1 cup): or half-and-half adds a silky smoothness to the custard-like egg mixture.
- Garlic powder (½ teaspoon): adds a subtle depth of savory flavor without overpowering the dish.
- Onion powder (½ teaspoon): brings a gentle sweetness and complexity.
- Salt (½ teaspoon) and black pepper (¼ teaspoon): simple seasonings to enhance and balance all the flavors.
- Fresh chopped chives (2 tablespoons, optional): a bright, herbal garnish that adds color and a mild oniony crunch.
- Optional add-ins: diced bell peppers, sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or green onions can personalize the casserole with veggies and extra textures.
How to Make Hash Brown Egg Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Dish
Start by heating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This steady temperature helps achieve that perfect golden crust without drying out the eggs. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure your casserole doesn’t stick and comes out cleanly, ready to serve.
Step 2: Layer the Hash Browns
Spread the thawed hash browns evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. This layer forms the satisfying crispy base that holds the casserole together while soaking up those delicious flavors from the eggs and cheese.
Step 3: Add the Meat and Cheese
Sprinkle the cooked breakfast sausage evenly across the hash browns. If you’re using bacon or ham instead, make sure it’s nicely distributed for every bite to have that meaty burst. Then, cover it all with a generous layer of shredded cheddar cheese, which will melt and bubble up in the oven to create a luscious top layer.
Step 4: Whisk the Egg Mixture
In a large bowl, whisk together the 8 eggs, whole milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until fully combined and slightly frothy. This custard-like mixture adds tenderness and richness that binds the casserole perfectly without being heavy.
Step 5: Pour and Bake
Carefully pour the egg mixture over the layered hash browns, meat, and cheese. Press gently to ensure the eggs seep into every corner and crevice. Pop the casserole in the oven and bake for about 55 minutes, or until the top is golden, the eggs are set, and you can smell that wonderful mix of cheesy, savory aromas filling your kitchen.
Step 6: Rest and Garnish
Once baked, let your casserole rest for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the eggs firm up more and makes serving cleaner. Sprinkle freshly chopped chives on top before serving for that fresh herbal kick and beautiful pop of green.
How to Serve Hash Brown Egg Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Beyond the fresh chives, you can level up your serving presentation with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of paprika for color, or even a scattering of sliced avocado for creaminess and a subtle flavor twist. These little touches elevate the dish and make it feel extra special.
Side Dishes
This casserole stands well on its own but pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit salad, crispy bacon strips, or a light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette. If you want to keep the brunch vibes going, serve it alongside warm buttermilk biscuits or toast for an all-around satisfying meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Try turning the casserole into a grab-and-go breakfast by slicing it into squares and serving with toothpicks at a brunch gathering. You can also layer it in individual ramekins for personalized servings or jazz it up by adding a drizzle of hot sauce or a side of homemade salsa for a zesty finish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap your cooled casserole tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. It’s best eaten within 3 to 4 days to enjoy the flavors and textures at their peak.
Freezing
This Hash Brown Egg Casserole Recipe freezes beautifully. Simply assemble the casserole in a freezer-safe dish, wrap it well, and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as usual.
Reheating
For reheating, cover the casserole with foil and warm it in a 350°F oven until heated through, about 20 minutes. Alternatively, individual slices reheat nicely in a microwave, but the oven method keeps the texture closer to fresh-baked perfection.
FAQs
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?
Fresh potatoes can work, but you’ll need to grate and partially cook them beforehand to remove excess moisture and achieve the right texture. Frozen hash browns are convenient and give consistently great results with less effort.
What other meats can I use instead of sausage?
Besides breakfast sausage, crumbled bacon, diced ham, or even cooked ground turkey or chicken make excellent alternatives. Feel free to mix and match based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
Is there a vegetarian version of this casserole?
Absolutely! Skip the meat and add extra vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach, and onions for flavor and texture. You might also consider using a plant-based sausage substitute if you want that savory bite.
Can this Hash Brown Egg Casserole Recipe be made dairy-free?
Yes, swap the cheddar cheese for a dairy-free cheese alternative and use almond milk or another plant-based milk in place of whole milk. The casserole might be a bit different in texture but still delicious and satisfying.
How do I know when the casserole is fully cooked?
The casserole is done when the eggs are set and no longer jiggle in the center, and the top is nicely golden. You can always insert a knife in the center; it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
Final Thoughts
This Hash Brown Egg Casserole Recipe is truly a crowd-pleaser combining simplicity with big flavors and comforting textures. It’s easy enough for a weeknight breakfast but special enough to share when guests arrive. The best part is how versatile it is—feel free to personalize it and make it your own. I can’t wait for you to try it and experience the warmth, cheer, and deliciousness it brings to your table!
Print
Hash Brown Egg Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This hearty Hash Brown Egg Casserole is a satisfying breakfast or brunch dish perfect for feeding a crowd. Featuring crispy hash browns, savory cooked sausage, melted cheddar cheese, and eggs baked together in a creamy custard, this casserole is flavorful, filling, and easy to prepare ahead. Optional vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach, or green onions can be added for extra nutrition and color. Enjoy it fresh from the oven garnished with fresh chives for a delicious start to your day.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 (20-ounce) bag frozen hash browns, thawed
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup cooked breakfast sausage (or crumbled bacon/diced ham)
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk (or half-and-half)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Optional Garnish
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
Optional Add-Ins
- Diced bell peppers
- Sautéed mushrooms
- Spinach
- Green onions
Instructions
- Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Layer Hash Browns and Sausage: Spread the thawed hash browns evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the cooked breakfast sausage—or your choice of crumbled bacon or diced ham—over the hash browns for a flavorful base layer.
- Add Cheese and Optional Vegetables: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the meat layer. If using, add optional diced bell peppers, sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or green onions at this point for added flavor and nutrition.
- Mix Egg Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk (or half-and-half), garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Pour Egg Mixture: Carefully pour the egg mixture over the layered ingredients in the baking dish, ensuring it is evenly distributed and covers all components.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for about 50-55 minutes, or until the eggs are fully set and the top is golden brown. A knife inserted in the center should come out clean.
- Cool and Garnish: Allow the casserole to cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped fresh chives if desired to add a fresh and colorful touch.
- Serve: Cut into 8 portions and serve warm for a comforting and delicious meal.
Notes
- You can make this casserole a day ahead and refrigerate it before baking for convenient morning preparation.
- Substitute milk with half-and-half for a richer casserole or use a lower-fat milk for a lighter option.
- Feel free to swap sausage for bacon or ham depending on your preference or dietary needs.
- Adding vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, mushrooms, or green onions boosts the nutritional content and flavor variety.
- If using frozen vegetables, thaw and drain them well before adding to prevent excess moisture.
- Ensure the baking dish is greased well to avoid sticking and make serving easier.
- Leftovers can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat in the oven for best texture.
