Best Breakfast Casserole Eggs

This hearty breakfast casserole with hash browns has been our family's weekend tradition for generations. The combination of crispy potatoes, savory sausage, and melty cheese creates a comforting morning meal that brings everyone to the table with smiles. It's simple to prepare yet impressive enough for special occasions.

I first made this casserole when hosting my in-laws for Christmas morning. The kitchen filled with incredible aromas while we opened gifts, and now it's become our holiday morning tradition. Even my pickiest nephew requests seconds every time!

Ingredients

• Frozen hash browns: Thawed properly ensure the perfect crispy base for your casserole
• Maple-flavored pork sausage: Adds a subtle sweetness that balances the savory elements
• Fresh diced onion: Provides aromatic flavor throughout the dish
• Large eggs: Create the perfect binding structure for all ingredients
• Milk: Helps create a custardy texture when combined with the eggs
• Onion and garlic powders: Enhance flavor without overwhelming texture
• Shredded cheddar cheese: Use a good quality sharp cheddar for maximum flavor impact
• Salt and pepper: The perfect finishing touch to enhance all other ingredients

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Baking Dish:

Preheat your oven to 350°F and thoroughly grease an 8-inch square baking dish. Spread the thawed hash browns in an even layer across the bottom. Take care to press them gently into an even layer for consistent cooking.

Brown the Sausage Mixture:

Cook the sausage and diced onion in a large skillet over medium heat, breaking the sausage into small crumbles as it cooks. This should take approximately 10 minutes until the sausage is fully browned and onions are translucent. Drain thoroughly to remove excess grease which could make your casserole soggy.

Prepare the Egg Mixture:

In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined and slightly frothy. This incorporation of air helps create a lighter texture in the finished casserole.

Layer the Casserole:

Pour the egg mixture over the hash browns, ensuring even coverage. Sprinkle half the cheddar cheese over the eggs, then distribute the sausage mixture evenly across the surface. Finish with the remaining cheese, creating a beautiful blanket that will form a golden crust.

Bake to Perfection:

Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 1 hour. This covered period allows the eggs to set without over-browning the cheese. Remove the foil and continue baking for about 10 more minutes until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean and the top is beautifully golden.

Rest Before Serving:

Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This resting period helps the casserole set properly, making it easier to cut clean portions that hold their shape on the plate.

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The maple-flavored sausage in this recipe is my secret weapon. I discovered this variation years ago when regular breakfast sausage was sold out at my local grocery store. The subtle sweetness perfectly complements the savory eggs and potatoes, creating a more complex flavor profile that guests always notice but can never quite identify.

Make-Ahead Magic

This casserole shines as a make-ahead breakfast solution. Simply assemble everything up to the baking step, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, remove from the refrigerator while the oven preheats, then bake as directed, adding about 10 extra minutes to account for the cold ingredients. This preparation method actually improves the flavor as the ingredients have time to meld together.

Customization Options

Think of this recipe as a base template ready for your personal touch. Vegetarians can skip the sausage and add sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach instead. For a spicier version, add diced jalapeños or substitute pepper jack cheese for the cheddar. Bacon lovers can replace the sausage with crispy crumbled bacon, while those seeking a lighter option might use turkey sausage and reduced-fat cheese. The versatility makes this a recipe you can adapt endlessly to suit any dietary preference or what you have on hand.

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Serving Suggestions

While delicious on its own, this breakfast casserole pairs beautifully with fresh fruit for a balanced meal. For brunch gatherings, serve alongside a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. If you're hosting a special occasion breakfast, consider offering warm maple syrup on the side for guests to drizzle over their portion. The combination of savory casserole with sweet syrup creates an irresistible flavor profile reminiscent of a full breakfast with pancakes and sausage.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use a different kind of sausage?

Yes, you can use any sausage variety such as turkey, chicken, or vegetarian sausage to suit your preference and dietary needs.

→ Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble the casserole the night before, cover, and refrigerate. Simply bake it fresh the next morning.

→ How do I make the casserole gluten-free?

Choose gluten-free sausage and ensure that the hash browns and seasonings you use are free from gluten.

→ What other cheese options can I use?

You can substitute cheddar cheese with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a cheese blend for a different flavor profile.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

Add diced jalapeños, crushed red pepper flakes, or use spicy sausage to amp up the heat in this dish.