Name: Hashbrown Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
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 tsp. garlic powder.; ½ tsp. onion powder.; Salt and pepper to taste.

Enjoy the comforting flavors of Sausage Hashbrown Casserole, a delicious dish perfect for breakfast or brunch. This casserole features layers of crispy hashbrowns, savory ground sausage, and a creamy egg mixture topped with melted cheddar cheese and diced green chilis. It's easy to make and sure to please a crowd. Customize it with your favorite ingredients like jalapeños or bell peppers for an extra kick. Serve it hot and enjoy the perfect blend of flavors and textures. Leftovers can be stored and reheated, making it a convenient meal for busy mornings.

Sausage Hashbrown Casserole is a hearty and delicious dish that's perfect for breakfast or brunch. This comforting casserole combines savory breakfast sausage, crispy hashbrowns, and creamy eggs, all topped with melted cheddar cheese and a hint of spice from diced green chilis. It's an easy-to-make meal that's sure to please a crowd. Let's explore the ingredients you'll need to create this satisfying dish.

INGREDIENTS

Ground Breakfast Sausage: 2 lbs, cooked until browned, providing a flavorful and savory base.
Frozen Hashbrown Potatoes: 2 lbs, lightly browned and mostly defrosted for a crispy texture.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: 2 cups, adding a rich, cheesy layer to the casserole.
Large Eggs: 9, whisked into the mixture for a creamy and fluffy texture.
Milk: 2 cups, to blend with the eggs and add creaminess.
Diced Green Chilis: 1 can, drained, adding a mild kick and flavor.
Garlic Powder: 1 tsp, for a savory and aromatic flavor.
Onion Powder: ½ tsp, adding depth and a subtle sweetness.
Salt and Pepper: To taste, for seasoning the dish.

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1:: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that the oven is ready when you're done preparing the casserole.
Step 2:: In a skillet over medium-high heat, sauté the ground breakfast sausage until it is completely browned. Break up the sausage into crumbles as it cooks. Once browned, remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
Step 3:: In the same skillet, add the frozen hashbrowns and cook them until they are lightly browned and mostly defrosted, about 8-10 minutes. This step helps give the hashbrowns a nice texture in the casserole.
Step 4:: Grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish. Evenly layer the cooked hashbrowns at the bottom of the dish, creating a base for the casserole.
Step 5:: Spread the browned sausage over the layer of hashbrowns. This adds a savory layer to the casserole.
Step 6:: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the sausage. Follow this by evenly distributing the drained diced green chilis on top of the cheese layer.
Step 7:: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well combined. This mixture will form the custard-like base of the casserole.
Step 8:: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layers in the casserole dish, ensuring that it covers all the ingredients.
Step 9:: Bake the casserole, uncovered, in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes. The casserole is done when the eggs are completely set and the top is lightly browned. Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.

Serving and Storage Tips

Sausage Hashbrown Casserole is best served hot, straight out of the oven. It's a perfect dish for breakfast or brunch gatherings, offering a hearty and satisfying meal. You can garnish it with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color and added flavor. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the desired portion in the microwave or a preheated oven until warmed through. The casserole can also be frozen for up to 2 months; just thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Helpful Notes

For a spicier version, consider adding diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the egg mixture. You can also swap out the breakfast sausage for other meats like bacon or ham for a different flavor profile. If you're looking to add more vegetables, bell peppers or spinach can be mixed into the egg mixture. This recipe is versatile and can be easily customized to suit your taste preferences.