Looking for a hearty and delicious breakfast option? This Creamy Sausage and Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole is a crowd-pleaser that will satisfy your morning cravings!
## Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground breakfast sausage
– 1 onion, diced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 (30-ounce) package frozen shredded hashbrowns
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 8 large eggs
– 1 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
## Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. In a skillet, cook the breakfast sausage, onion, and bell pepper until the sausage is browned and the vegetables are tender. Drain any excess grease.
3. Spread the hashbrowns evenly in the prepared baking dish. Top with the sausage mixture and shredded cheese.
4. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Pour the egg mixture over the hashbrown mixture in the baking dish.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the eggs are set. Let cool slightly before serving.
## Nutrition Information:
– Serving Size: 1 slice
– Calories: 350
– Total Fat: 20g
– Saturated Fat: 8g
– Cholesterol: 180mg
– Sodium: 550mg
– Total Carbohydrates: 20g
– Dietary Fiber: 2g
– Sugars: 2g
– Protein: 23g
### Popular questions:
1. Can I substitute the ground breakfast sausage with another type of meat?
– Yes, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even vegetarian sausage as a substitute.
2. Can I use fresh hashbrowns instead of frozen?
– Yes, you can use fresh shredded hashbrowns, just make sure they are cooked before adding them to the casserole.
3. Can I make this the night before and bake it in the morning?
– Yes, you can assemble the casserole the night before and bake it in the morning for a quick and easy breakfast.
4. Can I add other vegetables to this casserole?
– Absolutely! Feel free to customize the casserole with your favorite vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or tomatoes.
5. How long will this casserole last in the refrigerator?
– Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
6. Can I freeze this casserole?
– Yes, you can freeze this casserole for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
7. Can I use a different type of cheese?
– Cheddar cheese works best for this recipe, but you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack.
8. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
– Yes, you can use a dairy-free milk alternative and skip the cheese to make this recipe dairy-free.
9. Can I add some spices to enhance the flavor?
– Feel free to add spices like paprika, cayenne pepper, or fresh herbs like parsley or chives for extra flavor.
10. Can I add bacon to this casserole?
– Yes, you can add cooked and crumbled bacon to this casserole for an extra flavor boost.
### Helpful tips:
1. Let the casserole rest for a few minutes after baking to allow it to set before slicing.
2. For a creamier texture, you can add a dollop of sour cream before serving.
3. Serve with a side of fresh fruit or a simple green salad for a complete breakfast meal.
4. Make sure to season each layer of the casserole with salt and pepper for balanced flavors.
5. If you prefer a spicier casserole, you can use hot breakfast sausage or add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
6. Experiment with different types of cheese to find your favorite combination.
7. You can add a layer of cooked and chopped spinach for an extra boost of nutrients.
8. To make this casserole gluten-free, ensure that all ingredients are gluten-free certified.
9. Don’t overcook the casserole, as the eggs may become rubbery. Keep an eye on it towards the end of the baking time.
10. Feel free to garnish the casserole with fresh herbs like parsley or chives before serving for a pop of color.
### Expert Secrets:
1. Use high-quality breakfast sausage for the best flavor in this casserole.
2. Mixing the eggs thoroughly with the milk and seasonings ensures a creamy and well-balanced texture.
3. Baking the casserole at a lower temperature ensures even cooking without drying out the eggs.
4. Make sure to spread the hashbrowns evenly in the baking dish to create a solid base for the casserole.
5. Letting the casserole cool slightly before serving allows the flavors to meld together for a more delicious experience.
6. Try adding a tablespoon of hot sauce to the egg mixture for a spicy kick.
7. For a richer flavor, you can use half-and-half instead of milk in the egg mixture.
8. Garnish the casserole with a sprinkle of smoked paprika before serving for an added smoky flavor.
9. Use a non-stick baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
10. To make this casserole extra indulgent, top it with a drizzle of hollandaise sauce or a dollop of sour cream.
Enjoy this Creamy Sausage and Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole as a delicious and satisfying meal to start your day off right!
