Easy Breakfast Casserole Recipe

This Easy Breakfast Casserole is everything you wish a busy morning breakfast could be—hearty, cheesy, and incredibly simple to make. Picture golden, crispy edges, savory sausage, a blanket of gooey cheddar, and creamy eggs all nestled together in one comforting bite. It’s the ideal make-ahead meal for family brunches, feeding overnight guests, or fueling your household before everyone dashes out the door. With minimal prep and straightforward steps, this casserole truly is a hero for hectic mornings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s break down what goes into this ultimate breakfast casserole, along with a few notes to set you up for delicious success:

• Sausage: Adds smoky, savory flavor and hearty protein. Pork sausage is classic, but turkey or chicken sausage work well for a lighter twist.
• Eggs: The backbone of the casserole, bringing everything together with a custardy texture.
• Milk: Keeps everything moist and tender. Whole milk gives extra richness, but any dairy or non-dairy milk will work.
• Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning—it makes those classic breakfast flavors pop.
• Frozen Hashbrowns: Pure convenience! They add a satisfying, tender potato base without any peeling or shredding.
• Cheddar Cheese: Melts into a beautifully gooey, golden topping. Feel free to experiment with sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend.
• Note: No need to thaw the hashbrowns—straight from the freezer works best for an even bake.

Variations

Everyone’s breakfast preferences are a little different—try these easy twists:

• Swap the Protein: Use bacon, diced ham, or even chopped veggie sausage for a different flavor profile.
• Add Veggies: Toss in some sautéed bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms. Just cook off any moisture before adding.
• Change the Cheese: Try Colby-Jack, pepper jack for spice, or Swiss for a mellow flavor.
• Go Southwestern: Sprinkle in diced green chiles, cumin, or a handful of chopped cilantro.
• Make It Dairy-Free: Use a plant-based milk and cheese—this recipe is ultra-flexible.

How to Make Easy Breakfast Casserole

Step 1: Prepare and Brown the Sausage

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Crumble the sausage into a skillet over medium heat. Cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until fully browned and no longer pink. Drain off any excess fat if needed.

Step 2: Whisk the Eggs and Milk

In a large mixing bowl, crack in the eggs and pour in the milk. Add salt and pepper. Whisk them together until you have a smooth, frothy mixture. This step is key to a light, fluffy casserole.

Step 3: Layer the Base Ingredients

Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish. Scatter in the frozen hashbrowns, the browned sausage, and the shredded cheddar cheese. Gently stir the ingredients together right in the dish for an even mix—no need to dirty another bowl!

Step 4: Add the Egg Mixture

Pour your egg and milk mixture evenly over the hashbrown-sausage-cheese layer. Lightly shake or tap the pan to help distribute everything.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Cover the dish with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10–15 minutes, until the casserole is golden, bubbly around the edges, and the cheese is perfectly melted.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Let the casserole cool for 5–10 minutes before slicing. This short rest helps the casserole firm up, making serving a breeze.

How to Serve

This breakfast casserole shines all on its own, but it also loves a little company! Slice big, hearty squares and serve warm. It pairs beautifully with:

• Fresh Fruit Salad: The brightness of berries or citrus is a wonderful contrast.
• Hot Sauce or Salsa: Add a little kick for anyone who likes extra flavor.
• Buttered Toast or Biscuits: Perfect for soaking up any cheesy, eggy goodness.
• A Simple Green Salad: Keep it light for brunch gatherings.

Tip: If you’re serving a crowd, set up a toppings bar—think chopped chives, sour cream, or avocado slices.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover casserole covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It stays moist and reheats beautifully, making weekday breakfasts effortless.

Freezing

To freeze, let the casserole cool completely, then cut into portions. Pack individual pieces in airtight containers or tightly wrapped foil. It’ll keep well for up to 2 months. Perfect for prepping ahead!

Reheating

For a quick warm-up, microwave individual servings for a minute or two. To reheat the entire casserole, cover it with foil and bake at 350°F until hot throughout. If frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge first for best results.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Easy Breakfast Casserole brings together the very best of breakfast in one satisfying, make-ahead dish. Simple, flexible, and always a hit, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Give it a try—you might just find it becomes your go-to answer for stress-free mornings and happy, well-fed guests. Enjoy creating, sharing, and savoring every bite!

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