If you’re looking for a breakfast or brunch dish that’s both hearty and delicious, this Cheesy Sausage Hashbrown Bake is a winner. Packed with savory breakfast sausage, creamy sour cream, gooey cheddar cheese, and crispy hash browns, this casserole has everything you need to start your day on a satisfying note. It’s easy to make, perfect for a crowd, and best of all, it’s a one-dish wonder that will fill your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas. Whether you’re serving it at a weekend brunch or looking for a hearty family meal, this dish delivers comfort in every bite.
Ingredients
To make this Cheesy Sausage Hashbrown Bake, you’ll need the following ingredients: 1 lb of breakfast sausage, 1 package (30 oz) of frozen shredded hash browns (thawed), 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese, 1 can (10.5 oz) of condensed cream of chicken soup, 1 cup of sour cream, 1 small onion (finely chopped), ½ teaspoon of garlic powder, ½ teaspoon of black pepper, ½ teaspoon of salt, 2 tablespoons of melted butter, and fresh parsley for garnish (optional).
Instructions
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. This will ensure that the casserole doesn’t stick to the pan and is easy to serve once baked. Next, heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the breakfast sausage. Break it apart with a spoon as it cooks, ensuring that it’s fully browned and cooked through. Once the sausage is done, drain any excess fat and set it aside.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed hash browns, cooked sausage, shredded cheddar cheese, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, chopped onion, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. Stir the ingredients together until they are evenly combined. This mixture will form the base of your casserole, so make sure it’s well-mixed for consistent flavor throughout.
Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Once spread out, drizzle the melted butter over the top of the casserole. The butter will give the top a delicious golden finish and help create a crispy, flavorful crust.
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden and the casserole is bubbling around the edges. The baking time will vary slightly depending on your oven, so be sure to check for a golden brown top and check the casserole’s center to ensure it’s fully cooked.
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, to add a pop of color and a hint of freshness to balance the richness of the dish.
Tips for the Perfect Cheesy Sausage Hashbrown Bake
To make this casserole even creamier, you can add an extra ½ cup of sour cream or use a combination of cream cheese and sour cream. If you like a little more spice, try adding some diced green chilies or jalapeños to the mixture for an extra kick. You can also switch up the cheese by adding a combination of cheddar and Monterey Jack or pepper jack for an added layer of flavor.
If you don’t have frozen hash browns on hand, you can use fresh potatoes by grating them and squeezing out the excess moisture. This will provide a slightly different texture but will still work well in the dish. For a heartier meal, consider adding vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the casserole mixture.
You can also prepare the casserole in advance. Simply assemble the casserole the night before, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate. The next morning, simply bake it according to the instructions—this makes it a perfect option for busy mornings or holiday brunches.
Serving Suggestions
This Cheesy Sausage Hashbrown Bake is perfect on its own, but you can serve it alongside a variety of other dishes to round out the meal. Pair it with fresh fruit, like sliced oranges or berries, to balance the richness of the casserole. For a more filling breakfast, add a side of scrambled eggs or crispy bacon. If you’re serving it for brunch or lunch, a simple green salad or sautéed vegetables would make a great side dish.
For drinks, pair the casserole with a hot cup of coffee or tea, or even a chilled glass of orange juice or a mimosa for an added touch of brunch indulgence.
Storage and Reheating
If you have leftovers (which is highly likely because this casserole is so tasty), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave, or place the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes to warm it through.
For longer storage, you can freeze the casserole. Allow it to cool completely, then cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap and store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months. To reheat from frozen, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake it in the oven until hot.
FAQ
Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
Yes! You can easily make this casserole vegetarian by omitting the sausage and using a meat substitute like plant-based sausage or crumbled tofu. You can also add extra veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to bulk it up.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar cheese is a classic choice for this dish, feel free to experiment with other cheeses such as Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even gouda for a more gourmet twist.
Can I make this in advance?
Yes, this casserole can be made ahead of time. Simply assemble the casserole the night before, cover it, and refrigerate it. Bake it the next morning for a quick and easy breakfast or brunch option.
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of hash browns?
Yes, if you prefer, you can use fresh potatoes. Simply grate the potatoes and squeeze out any excess moisture before adding them to the casserole. The texture will be slightly different, but they will still work well.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Sausage Hashbrown Bake is the perfect dish to bring to your next breakfast or brunch gathering, or even to enjoy as a comforting weeknight dinner. With its rich, creamy, and cheesy filling and a savory sausage base, this casserole will satisfy the whole family. It’s easy to make, delicious, and incredibly versatile, allowing you to add your own twists and flavors. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday brunch, a weekend treat, or just because, this casserole will soon become a favorite in your recipe rotation.
Print
Cheesy Sausage Hashbrown Bake: The Ultimate Comfort Food Casserole
Description
A comforting, cheesy casserole with savory sausage, crispy hash browns, and a creamy base, perfect for breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients
• 1 lb breakfast sausage
• 1 package (30 oz) frozen shredded hash browns (thawed)
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 small onion (finely chopped)
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp salt
• 2 tbsp butter (melted)
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2️⃣ Cook the breakfast sausage in a large skillet over medium heat, breaking it apart until browned. Drain fat and set aside.
3️⃣ In a mixing bowl, combine hash browns, cooked sausage, shredded cheddar, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, chopped onion, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. Stir until well combined.
4️⃣ Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
5️⃣ Drizzle melted butter over the top of the casserole.
6️⃣ Bake for 45-50 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbly.
7️⃣ Let cool for a few minutes, garnish with parsley, and serve.