It was a crisp autumn morning in Asheville, and my kitchen was aglow with the comforting aroma of my latest creation: beef Sausage Hashbrown Casserole. In evenings past, my grandmother’s kitchen was the heart of our home, filled with love and the occasional mischievous grin as she handed me bits of dough to shape (or sometimes eat). I thought of those moments as I piled hashbrowns high and snuck bites of seasoned beef sausage.
A casserole was always more than the sum of its parts; it was warmth layered with flavor, a centerpiece for family laughter. If you’re seeking a dish that wraps you in nostalgia and satisfies the soul, this recipe beckons.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The Beef Sausage Hashbrown Casserole is a culinary gem. Each bite is a melody of crispy, creamy, and savory notes. You’ll find that the combination of hearty beef sausage with tender hashbrowns forms a beautiful union of textures.
It’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dinner. This easy-to-make Casserole requires minimal preparation and promises maximum delight. Plus, it caters to those spontaneous brunch invitations or lazy Sunday mornings. It’s versatile, wholesome, and undeniably delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 lb beef sausage, crumbled
- 4 cups frozen hashbrowns, thawed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 ½ cups milk
- 6 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Substitutions & Variations
Substitute beef sausage with turkey sausage for a lighter version. For a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños. Prefer a veggie version?
Swap sausage with mushrooms and spinach. Use plant-based milk or cheese for a dairy-free option. Introduce herbs like thyme or parsley for added aroma and flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions and red bell peppers, cooking until soft and fragrant.
- Add beef sausage and cook until browned, breaking into small pieces.
- In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Layer hashbrowns at the bottom of the prepared dish. Distribute sausage mix over hashbrowns evenly.
- Pour the egg mixture over the sausage and hashbrown layer. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden and set.
- Remove from oven and let it cool for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Pro Tips for Success
Ensure hashbrowns are completely thawed to achieve a crispy texture. Use fresh, high-quality sausage for a robust flavor. Don’t overmix the eggs to avoid rubbery texture. Bake until the cheese forms a crispy, golden crust for a delightful finish.
Storage & Reheating Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until warmed thoroughly, or microwave individual slices for a quick meal.
What to Serve With This Recipe
Pair this Beef Sausage Hashbrown Casserole with a light salad like a fresh arugula or a simple fruit salad for balance. A warm cup of coffee or freshly squeezed orange juice complements this dish perfectly.
FAQs
Can I make it in advance?
Yes, prepare it the night before, refrigerate, and bake in the morning for hassle-free breakfast.
Can I freeze the casserole?
Absolutely, wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
How do I prevent the hashbrowns from getting soggy?
Ensure they’re well thawed and drained. It eliminates excess moisture, keeping the casserole crisp.
Nutrition Information (per serving)
| Calories | Total Fat | Saturated Fat | Cholesterol | Sodium | Total Carbohydrates | Protein |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 320 | 24g | 9g | 220mg | 800mg | 10g | 16g |
Beef Sausage Hashbrown Casserole
- Total Time: 65 mins
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Beef Sausage Hashbrown Casserole is a comforting dish filled with the flavors of seasoned beef sausage, crispy hashbrowns, and a cheesy topping, perfect for any meal.
Ingredients
1 lb Beef Sausage, crumbled
4 cups Frozen Hashbrowns, thawed
2 tablespoons Olive Oil
1 Onion, finely chopped
1 Red Bell Pepper, chopped
2 cups Shredded Cheddar Cheese
1 ½ cups Milk
6 Large Eggs
1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
1 teaspoon Paprika
Salt and Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions and red bell peppers, cooking until soft and fragrant
- Add beef sausage and cook until browned, breaking into small pieces
- In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper
- Layer hashbrowns at the bottom of the prepared dish. Distribute sausage mix over hashbrowns evenly
- Pour the egg mixture over the sausage and hashbrown layer. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden and set
- Remove from oven and let it cool for 10 minutes before slicing and serving
Notes
Ensure hashbrowns are completely thawed to achieve a crispy texture.
Use fresh, high-quality sausage for a robust flavor.
Don’t overmix the eggs to avoid rubbery texture.
Bake until the cheese forms a crispy, golden crust for a delightful finish.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 45 mins
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 220mg