Cheesy Sausage Hashbrown Bake

Lazy weekend mornings are made for comfort food, and nothing beats the aroma of a hearty, cheesy breakfast casserole baking in the oven. Growing up, my family loved gathering around the table for a warm, filling meal, and this Cheesy Sausage Hashbrown Bake was always a favorite. It’s the kind of dish that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor—crispy hashbrowns, creamy cheese, and savory sausage all baked to perfection.

Whether you’re hosting a brunch, feeding a hungry crowd, or just want a meal-prep-friendly breakfast for the week, this recipe is a lifesaver. It’s easy to throw together with simple ingredients, and you can even make it ahead of time. Plus, it’s completely customizable, so you can add your favorite mix-ins to make it your own. Let’s dive into how to make this comforting classic!

Short Description

A deliciously cheesy and savory breakfast casserole made with crispy hashbrowns, sausage, eggs, and melted cheese. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for brunch, meal prep, or a family breakfast.

Key Ingredients and How to Choose the Right Ones

Main Ingredients:

• 1 lb breakfast sausage – Choose a flavorful sausage like maple or spicy for an extra kick.
• 1 (30 oz) package frozen hashbrowns – Shredded or diced both work, but make sure they’re thawed for even baking.
• 8 oz cream cheese – Softened to blend smoothly into the dish, creating a creamy texture.
• 6 eggs – Large eggs help bind everything together.
• ½ cup milk – Whole milk gives richness, but you can use any variety.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-packaged.
• Salt and pepper – Season to taste.

Tools Needed

• Large skillet
• Mixing bowls
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Whisk
• Spatula

Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Ingredients

• Thaw hashbrowns in a colander or on a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
• Soften the cream cheese at room temperature.
• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 2: Cook the Sausage

• Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
• Add the breakfast sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula.
• Drain excess grease and let the sausage cool slightly.

Step 3: Mix Everything Together

• In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper.
• Stir in the softened cream cheese until smooth.
• Add the cooked sausage, hashbrowns, and half of the shredded cheddar. Mix well.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

• Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and pour in the mixture.
• Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese evenly on top.
• Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown and the center is set.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

• Let the casserole cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
• Serve warm with your favorite toppings like green onions, salsa, or sour cream!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and minimal prep.
• Great for Meal Prep – Stays fresh and reheats well.
• Customizable – Swap ingredients to match your taste.
• Perfect for a Crowd – A brunch favorite!

Storage and Reheating Tips

Refrigerate: Cover and store in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freeze: Wrap individual portions and freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheat:

• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
• Oven: Cover with foil and bake at 350°F for 10-15 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the night before, refrigerate, and bake fresh in the morning.

2. Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hashbrowns?

Absolutely! Just grate them and squeeze out excess moisture first.

3. Can I add vegetables?

Yes! Bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach make great additions. Just sauté them first to remove excess water.

Recipe Variations

Spicy Southwest Version

• Swap sausage for chorizo.
• Add 1 cup diced bell peppers and ½ teaspoon cumin.
• Use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar.

Vegetarian Version

• Replace sausage with sautéed mushrooms and spinach.
• Use plant-based milk and vegan cheese for a dairy-free option.

Bacon & Onion Version

• Use crispy bacon instead of sausage.
• Add ½ cup caramelized onions for extra flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Cheesy Sausage Hashbrown Bake is the kind of recipe that brings people together. It’s warm, comforting, and packed with flavor, making it perfect for slow weekend mornings or busy weekdays when you need a hearty meal. The best part? It’s incredibly flexible—swap in your favorite ingredients, prep it ahead of time, or freeze portions for later.

No matter how you enjoy it, this dish is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your version with me! I’d love to hear how you make it your own.