Introduction
Do you ever find yourself rushing in the morning, wishing you had a hearty, homemade breakfast ready to go? Look no further! This Make Ahead Sausage Hashbrown Casserole is the answer to your breakfast prayers. Combining the savory flavors of breakfast sausage, crispy hashbrowns, and melty cheese, all held together by a rich egg mixture, this dish is as satisfying as it is convenient. Let’s dive into how you can prepare this delicious casserole, perfect for any occasion!
Table of Contents
| Sr# | Headings |
|---|---|
| 1. | Introduction |
| 2. | Ingredients |
| 3. | Instructions |
| 4. | Preparing the Sausage |
| 5. | Preparing the Hashbrowns |
| 6. | Assembling the Casserole |
| 7. | Making the Egg Mixture |
| 8. | Baking the Casserole |
| 9. | Serving Suggestions |
| 10. | Tips for Making Ahead |
| 11. | Variations and Add-Ins |
| 12. | Nutritional Information |
| 13. | Storing and Reheating |
| 14. | FAQs |
| 15. | Conclusion |
Ingredients
Before we get into the step-by-step process, let’s gather all the ingredients you’ll need for this savory casserole.
- 2 lbs. Ground breakfast sausage
- 2 lbs. Frozen hashbrown potatoes
- 2 C. Shredded cheddar cheese
- 9 Large eggs
- 2 C. Milk
- 1 Can diced green chilis, drained
- 1 tsp. Garlic powder
- ½ tsp. Onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Now that we have everything we need, let’s break down the recipe into easy-to-follow steps.
1. Preparing the Sausage
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees. In a skillet over medium-high heat, sauté the ground breakfast sausage until it is completely browned. Once cooked, remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside.
2. Preparing the Hashbrowns
Using the same skillet, heat the frozen hashbrowns until they are lightly browned and mostly defrosted, which should take about 8-10 minutes. This step adds a nice crispy texture to the casserole.
3. Assembling the Casserole
In a greased 9×13 casserole dish, layer the cooked hashbrowns evenly on the bottom. Next, spread the browned sausage over the hashbrowns. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the sausage, and then add the drained diced green chilis on top.
4. Making the Egg Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the eggs, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk these ingredients together until they are well combined.
5. Baking the Casserole
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layered ingredients in the casserole dish. Bake the casserole in your preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the eggs are completely set and the top is golden brown.
Serving Suggestions
This Make Ahead Sausage Hashbrown Casserole is perfect on its own, but you can elevate your meal with a few simple sides. Consider serving it with a fresh fruit salad, a dollop of sour cream, or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives for added color and flavor.
Tips for Making Ahead
One of the best features of this casserole is its make-ahead potential. You can prepare the casserole the night before, cover it with plastic wrap, and store it in the refrigerator. In the morning, simply pop it in the oven for a hot, homemade breakfast with no morning hassle.
Variations and Add-Ins
Feel free to get creative with this recipe. Here are a few ideas for variations and add-ins:
- Vegetables: Add sautéed bell peppers, onions, or spinach for extra nutrients and flavor.
- Cheese: Try different cheeses like mozzarella, pepper jack, or gouda for a unique twist.
- Meat: Substitute or add bacon or ham for a different protein option.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional information per serving (assuming the casserole is divided into 12 servings):
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 18g
- Fat: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
Storing and Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, or place the entire casserole in a preheated oven at 350 degrees for 15-20 minutes.
FAQs
1. Can I freeze this casserole? Yes, you can freeze this casserole. Prepare it as directed, but instead of baking, cover it tightly with aluminum foil and freeze. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
2. Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hashbrowns? Absolutely! Just make sure to grate the potatoes and squeeze out any excess moisture before using them in the recipe.
3. What can I substitute for green chilis? If you don’t have green chilis, you can use chopped bell peppers or even a can of Rotel tomatoes for a slightly different flavor.
4. Can I make this casserole vegetarian? Yes, you can make a vegetarian version by omitting the sausage and adding more vegetables or a plant-based sausage substitute.
5. How can I tell if the casserole is fully cooked? The casserole is done when the eggs are completely set and the top is golden brown. You can also insert a knife into the center; if it comes out clean, the casserole is ready.
Conclusion
This Make Ahead Sausage Hashbrown Casserole is a versatile and delicious dish that’s perfect for busy mornings, family brunches, or holiday gatherings. Its simple ingredients and easy preparation make it a go-to recipe that everyone will love. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this casserole is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy!
This comprehensive guide should help you create a delicious and satisfying sausage hashbrown casserole that meets all your needs, whether you’re making it for a special occasion or a regular weekday breakfast. Happy cooking!
