Hash brown casserole with sausage is the ultimate comfort food that brings together crispy potatoes, savory sausage, and melty cheese in one delicious dish. This crowd-pleasing casserole has become a staple at family brunches, holiday gatherings, and potluck breakfasts across America.
With its origins in homestyle cooking, this hearty dish delivers satisfaction that few other breakfast options can match.
What makes this casserole truly special is its versatility and simplicity. You can prepare it the night before for an easy morning meal, customize it with your favorite ingredients, or serve it alongside other breakfast favorites.
Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or looking for a dish that provides delicious leftovers throughout the week, hash brown casserole with sausage delivers on all fronts.
The combination of crispy and creamy textures alongside protein-packed sausage creates a balanced meal that will keep everyone satisfied until lunchtime.
INGREDIENTS
- 1 pound breakfast sausage (mild or spicy)
- 1 package (30 oz) frozen shredded hash browns, thawed
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, diced (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (10.75 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
- Green onions or fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
INSTRUCTIONS
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage while breaking it into crumbles with a spatula. Continue cooking until the sausage is browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the cooked sausage to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease.
In the same skillet, add a small amount of oil if needed and sauté the chopped onion and bell pepper (if using) until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Remove from heat.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed hash browns, 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheese, the sautéed vegetables, and cooked sausage. Mix gently until well combined.
In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, milk, melted butter, salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme until smooth. Pour this mixture over the hash brown mixture and stir until everything is evenly coated.
Transfer the mixture to your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheese over the top. Cover the dish with aluminum foil.
Bake covered for 40 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbly. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C).
Allow the casserole to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped green onions or fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
FAQs
1. Can I prepare this casserole the night before?
Yes! You can assemble the entire casserole, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and refrigerate overnight. When ready to bake, remove it from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before baking to take the chill off, then bake as directed.
You may need to add 5-10 minutes to the covered baking time.
2. What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?
If you don’t have or don’t like cream of mushroom soup, you can substitute cream of chicken, cream of celery, or even a homemade white sauce.
For a homemade alternative, melt 2 tablespoons butter, whisk in 2 tablespoons flour, then gradually add 1 cup of milk or chicken broth while whisking until thickened.
3. Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the sausage and add more vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or broccoli. You could also use a plant-based sausage substitute if desired.
Just be sure to check that your soup is vegetarian as well, or use the homemade alternative mentioned above.
4. How long do leftovers last?
Leftover hash brown casserole with sausage can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or larger amounts in the oven at 350°F until heated through.
5. Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well! You can freeze it either before or after baking. To freeze before baking, assemble the casserole, cover tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months.
Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking. For leftovers, freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months.
CONCLUSION
Hash brown casserole with sausage is more than just a delicious meal—it’s a versatile dish that can simplify your morning routine while satisfying hungry appetites.
With its perfect balance of flavors and textures, this casserole has earned its place as a beloved comfort food classic. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday breakfast, weekend brunch, or make-ahead weekday meal, it’s sure to become a requested favorite in your household.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability—feel free to experiment with different cheeses, add your favorite vegetables, or adjust the seasonings to suit your taste preferences.
No matter how you customize it, the combination of crispy hash browns, savory sausage, and creamy, cheesy goodness creates a memorable dish that brings people together around the table.
Next time you’re looking for a hearty, crowd-pleasing breakfast option, give this hash brown casserole with sausage a try!
