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Crispy Baked Breakfast Casserole: Easy 5-Ingredient Sausage Hash Brown Recipe

Crispy Baked Breakfast Casserole - featured image

A nostalgic, easy-to-make breakfast casserole featuring crispy frozen hash browns, savory sausage, and a rich custard base. This dish delivers a crunchy top and soft center, perfect for busy mornings or weekend brunches.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound raw pork breakfast sausage (mild sage-flavored preferred)
  • 1 large bag (30 ounces) frozen shredded hash browns (do not thaw)
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
  • 8 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Butter or non-stick spray for greasing dish

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 13×9 inch baking dish.
  2. In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook the sausage, breaking it apart, until fully browned (8-10 minutes). Drain excess grease, leaving about a tablespoon.
  3. While sausage cooks, break up any large clumps in the frozen hash browns.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the frozen hash browns, diced onion, and cooked sausage.
  5. In a separate bowl, whisk eggs, heavy cream, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until frothy.
  6. Pour the egg mixture over the hash brown and sausage mix, stirring gently to coat evenly.
  7. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese over the top, pressing it down slightly.
  8. Bake for 45-50 minutes until the center is set and edges are golden brown. Tent with foil if browning too quickly.
  9. Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes before cutting.
  10. Sprinkle with remaining cheese and fresh chives before serving.

Notes

Do not thaw the hash browns, as this leads to a soggy casserole. Ensure sausage is well-browned to render fat and develop flavor. Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes after baking to allow the custard to set properly. Can be assembled the night before and refrigerated; add 10-15 minutes to baking time if baking from cold.

Nutrition

Keywords: breakfast casserole, sausage hash brown recipe, easy brunch, baked eggs, comfort food, meal prep, family breakfast