Looking for a comforting and hearty dish to satisfy your cravings? This Cheesy Sausage Hashbrown Bake is a delicious option that is perfect for brunch or a cozy dinner at home.
**Ingredients:**
– 1 lb sausage
– 1 onion, diced
– 1 green bell pepper, diced
– 1 (30 oz) bag frozen shredded hashbrowns
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup milk
– 6 large eggs
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. In a skillet, cook the sausage, onion, and bell pepper until the sausage is browned and veggies are tender. Drain any excess grease.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cooked sausage mixture, frozen hashbrowns, and 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheese. Mix well.
4. In another bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, salt, and black pepper. Pour over the sausage mixture and stir to combine.
5. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and top with the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheese.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden brown.
7. Let cool slightly before serving.
**Nutrition Information:**
– Calories: 350 per serving
– Total Fat: 20g
– Saturated Fat: 8g
– Cholesterol: 155mg
– Sodium: 640mg
– Carbohydrates: 24g
– Fiber: 2g
– Sugars: 2g
– Protein: 18g
**Popular Questions:**
1. Can I use different types of sausage?
– Yes, feel free to use your favorite type of sausage for this recipe. It will add different flavors to the dish.
2. Can I use fresh hashbrowns instead of frozen?
– Yes, you can use fresh shredded potatoes instead of frozen hashbrowns. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
3. Can I substitute the cheddar cheese with a different cheese?
– Absolutely, you can use any type of cheese you prefer for this recipe.
4. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
– Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time and bake it when ready to serve.
5. How long does this Cheesy Sausage Hashbrown Bake last in the fridge?
– It can be stored in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
6. Can I freeze leftovers?
– Yes, you can freeze leftovers for up to 2-3 months.
7. Can I add vegetables to this dish?
– Feel free to add any additional vegetables you like to customize this dish.
8. Can I use non-dairy milk in this recipe?
– Yes, you can use non-dairy milk as a substitute.
9. Can I make this dish without eggs?
– You can try using an egg substitute or simply omit the eggs, but the texture may differ slightly.
10. Can I add spices or herbs to enhance the flavor?
– Absolutely, feel free to add your favorite spices or herbs to customize the flavor of this dish.
**Helpful Tips:**
1. Try adding some diced tomatoes or spinach for added flavor and nutrients.
2. Experiment with different types of cheese for a unique twist on this dish.
3. For a spicy kick, add some chopped jalapenos or a dash of hot sauce.
4. Serve with a side of sour cream or salsa for extra flavor.
5. Top with crispy bacon crumbles for added crunch.
6. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color.
7. Make individual servings in muffin tins for a fun twist on this dish.
8. Double the recipe and freeze half for an easy meal prep option.
9. For a vegetarian version, substitute the sausage with meatless crumbles.
10. Have fun experimenting with different variations to cater to your taste preferences.
**Expert Secrets:**
1. Ensure the sausage is fully cooked before combining with the other ingredients for optimal flavor.
2. Let the dish cool slightly before cutting into it to allow for easier serving.
3. Use a good quality cheddar cheese for the best melting and flavor.
4. Whisk the milk and eggs together thoroughly to ensure a smooth mixture.
5. Allow the dish to rest for a few minutes after baking to set properly.
6. Cover the dish with foil during baking if you prefer a softer texture.
7. To make it more filling, add cooked and crumbled bacon to the mix.
8. Add a sprinkle of paprika on top before baking for a hint of smokiness.
9. Use a non-stick baking dish for easy cleanup.
10. Customize the seasonings to your preference, such as adding garlic powder or cayenne pepper for extra flavor.
This Cheesy Sausage Hashbrown Bake is sure to become a family favorite with its delicious flavors and comforting ingredients. Enjoy this hearty dish for brunch, dinner, or any meal when you need some satisfying comfort food.
