When comfort food meets convenience, the result is a cheesy sausage and hashbrown casserole that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a quick weeknight dinner. Loaded with golden shredded potatoes, savory breakfast sausage, melty cheese, and a creamy egg mixture, this all-in-one dish is hearty, flavorful, and endlessly customizable.
Whether you’re feeding a crowd, meal prepping for the week, or hosting a holiday brunch, this easy bake is sure to satisfy every appetite at the table.
Ingredients
This recipe makes 8 generous servings.
- 1 pound ground breakfast sausage (pork or turkey)
- 1 bag (about 30 ounces) frozen shredded hashbrowns, thawed
- 1 and ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 45 to 50 minutes
- Cooling time: 5 to 10 minutes
- Total time: About 1 hour and 10 minutes
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
- Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray or butter.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground sausage until browned and fully cooked, about 6 to 8 minutes.
- Drain any excess grease and set the sausage aside to cool slightly.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed hashbrowns, cooked sausage, shredded cheddar and mozzarella, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Stir until everything is evenly distributed, then pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
Step 4: Add the Egg Mixture
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and sour cream until smooth.
- Pour the egg mixture evenly over the sausage and hashbrowns in the baking dish.
- Use a spatula or spoon to gently press down so the eggs soak through all layers.
Step 5: Bake
- Bake uncovered for 45 to 50 minutes or until the top is golden and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let rest for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing.
- Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve warm.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with fresh fruit and toast for a balanced breakfast.
- Pair with a light green salad for a satisfying brunch or dinner.
- Add hot sauce or salsa for an extra kick.
- Store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days — perfect for reheating throughout the week.
Nutritional Highlights
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1 of 8 slices) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 410 |
| Protein | 20 grams |
| Total Fat | 28 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 11 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 18 grams |
| Fiber | 1 gram |
| Sugars | 2 grams |
| Sodium | 710 milligrams |
Nutritional Benefits:
- High in protein from eggs, sausage, and cheese — helps with satiety and energy.
- Moderate carbs make it suitable for low-carb diets with adjustments.
- Calcium-rich from cheese and sour cream, supporting bone health.
- Customizable fat content by using lean turkey sausage and low-fat dairy alternatives.
Variations to Try
- Vegetarian version: Use sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, and spinach instead of sausage.
- Spicy option: Swap in hot Italian sausage and add red pepper flakes or jalapeños.
- Make it lighter: Use egg whites, low-fat cheese, and turkey sausage to reduce calories.
- Southwestern twist: Mix in black beans, green chiles, and cumin for added depth.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the thaw: Frozen hashbrowns must be fully thawed to ensure even cooking and prevent sogginess.
- Overcooking: Watch closely near the 45-minute mark to avoid drying out the eggs.
- Uneven layers: Press the egg mixture down into the casserole to ensure every bite is moist and cohesive.
- Not draining sausage: Excess grease will affect texture and make the dish overly heavy.
Cheesy sausage and hashbrown casserole is the ultimate comfort food — easy to make, deeply satisfying, and perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dinner. It brings together protein-packed ingredients with warm, melty cheese and a golden potato base, creating a dish that feels like a celebration any time of day.