Introduction
There’s something truly comforting about a warm breakfast casserole, especially on a lazy weekend morning. This delightful breakfast casserole brings together fluffy eggs, savory sausage, and cheesy goodness, all layered over a base of crispy hash browns. It’s a perfect dish for feeding a crowd or simply treating your family to a special start to the day. Easy to prepare and packed with flavor, this casserole is bound to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 pound breakfast sausage, cooked and crumbled
- 4 cups frozen hash browns, thawed
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced green onions
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Yield: 8 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This warming step is crucial for that perfect golden top!
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and black pepper until everything is well combined and slightly frothy.
- In a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, evenly spread the thawed hash browns across the bottom. This creates a lovely base for your casserole.
- Layer the cooked and crumbled sausage over the hash browns, letting the savory aroma fill your kitchen.
- Gently pour the egg mixture over the sausage and hash browns, ensuring an even distribution.
- Top everything off with a generous sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese and diced green onions for that fresh burst of flavor.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. The casserole is done when it is set in the middle and the top has turned a lovely light golden hue.
- Once baked, allow it to cool for a few minutes before slicing it into squares. Serve warm and enjoy the cozy flavors!
Notes or Tips
If you’re looking to customize this dish, feel free to add in your favorite vegetables such as bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition and flavor. For a spicier kick, consider using a hot breakfast sausage. This casserole can also be assembled the night before; just cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate. In the morning, bake it while you’re sipping your coffee for a hassle-free breakfast!
Cooking Techniques
This breakfast casserole showcases several cooking techniques: whisking, layering, and baking. Whisking the egg mixture thoroughly is essential for a fluffy result. Layering ingredients not only adds texture but helps in even cooking. And baking at the right temperature allows the casserole to set properly, yielding that coveted golden crust while keeping the inside nice and moist.
FAQ
Can I use fresh hash browns instead of frozen?
Absolutely! If you have fresh potatoes, simply shred them using a grater and then use them as a base, although you may need to adjust cooking times slightly.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat in the oven or microwave when you’re ready to enjoy!
Conclusion
This breakfast casserole is a fantastic way to start your day, packed with hearty ingredients that the whole family will enjoy. Whether you’re hosting a brunch gathering or simply treating yourself to a quality breakfast, this dish makes for a satisfying meal that’s both easy to prepare and delightful to share. So gather your loved ones, slice into this scrumptious creation, and savor every bite!