SAUSAGE HASHBROWN BREAKFAST CASSEROLE

Looking for a hearty breakfast option? Try our Sausage Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole! With savory pork sausage, fluffy eggs, crispy hash browns, and melted cheddar cheese, it’s a crowd-pleaser. Perfect for brunch gatherings or lazy weekend mornings.

Ingredients:

• 8 eggs
• 1 pound pork sausage (such as Jimmy Dean)
• 1 1/2 cups whole milk or heavy cream
• 1 package (30 oz) frozen shredded hash browns, thawed
• 2 cups cheddar cheese
• 1 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder

Instructions:

1. Preheat and Prep: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and spraying a 9 x 13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
2. Cook the Sausage: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the pork sausage, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess grease and set the cooked sausage aside.
3. Whisk the Eggs: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk or heavy cream, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder until well combined.
4. Layer the Ingredients: In the prepared baking dish, layer the thawed hash browns evenly on the bottom. Next, add the cooked sausage in an even layer over the hash browns, followed by a layer of cheddar cheese.
5. Pour the Egg Mixture: Carefully pour the whisked egg mixture over the layered ingredients in the baking dish, ensuring that the mixture is evenly distributed.
6. Cover and Bake: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes. After 40 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 20 minutes, or until the casserole is golden brown and set in the center.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Once fully baked, remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before serving. Serve slices of the Sausage Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole with your favorite toppings such as Frank’s Hot Sauce or chunky salsa.

Unique FAQs:

1. Can I use turkey sausage instead of pork sausage in this recipe?
   Absolutely! Feel free to substitute turkey sausage for pork sausage to suit your preferences or dietary needs.
2. Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time and bake it later?
   Yes, you can assemble the casserole the night before and refrigerate it overnight. Simply bake it in the morning as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if needed.
3. What other toppings can I serve with this breakfast casserole?
   In addition to hot sauce or salsa, you can top slices of the casserole with sour cream, avocado slices, or chopped fresh herbs for added flavor.
4. Can I add vegetables to this casserole for extra nutrition?
   Absolutely! Feel free to add diced bell peppers, onions, spinach, or any other vegetables you enjoy to the layered ingredients before baking.
5. How should I store leftovers of this breakfast casserole?
   Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Simply reheat individual portions in the microwave before serving.