Make-Ahead Sausage Hashbrown Casserole

This Make-Ahead Sausage Hashbrown Casserole is a hearty and satisfying breakfast or brunch option that’s perfect for busy mornings. Loaded with savory breakfast sausage, crispy hashbrowns, and melted cheddar cheese, it’s all tied together with a rich egg mixture. This dish is easy to prepare ahead of time, making it a convenient choice for feeding a crowd.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs ground breakfast sausage
• 2 lbs frozen hashbrown potatoes
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 9 large eggs
• 2 cups milk
• 1 can diced green chilis, drained
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the Sausage:
   • In a large skillet over medium-high heat, sauté the ground breakfast sausage until it is completely browned. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Prepare the Hashbrowns:
   • In the same skillet, add the frozen hashbrown potatoes and cook until they are lightly browned and mostly defrosted, about 8-10 minutes.
4. Assemble the Casserole:
   • Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish. Layer the cooked hashbrowns evenly on the bottom of the dish.
   • Spread the browned sausage over the hashbrowns.
   • Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the sausage.
   • Add the drained diced green chilis on top of the cheese.
5. Prepare the Egg Mixture:
   • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine and Bake:
   • Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layered ingredients in the casserole dish.
   • Bake the casserole uncovered in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the eggs are completely set and the top is golden brown.
7. Serve:
   • Allow the casserole to cool slightly before cutting into squares. Serve warm.

Tips:

• Make-Ahead: This casserole can be assembled the night before and stored in the refrigerator. Simply cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate. In the morning, uncover and bake as directed.
• Variations: Feel free to add other ingredients such as diced bell peppers, sautéed mushrooms, or spinach for additional flavor and nutrition.
• Cheese Options: You can substitute the cheddar cheese with other types of cheese like mozzarella, pepper jack, or Swiss for different flavor profiles.

Conclusion:

This Make-Ahead Sausage Hashbrown Casserole is an easy, flavorful dish that brings comfort and convenience to your breakfast or brunch table. Its hearty combination of sausage, hashbrowns, and cheese, all held together by a savory egg mixture, makes it a crowd-pleaser that can be prepared in advance and baked fresh when needed. Enjoy this delicious and fuss-free casserole with your family and friends!