Description

A make-ahead breakfast casserole that stays fluffy and crisp, avoiding the common pitfalls of soggy eggs and raw potatoes. Perfect for busy mornings and freezing for later.

Ingredients

Scale

1 pound breakfast sausage (pork or turkey)
2 cups frozen shredded hash browns (or 2 cups diced potatoes, par-boiled)
6 large eggs
1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 medium yellow onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional: 1/2 cup diced bell peppers, 1 tablespoon fresh herbs (chives/parsley), 1/2 cup crumbled bacon bits

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the sausage, breaking it up, until browned and crispy (5-7 minutes). Remove sausage with a slotted spoon, leaving fat in the pan.
In the same skillet, sauté the diced onions (and peppers if using) in the sausage fat for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic in the last minute.
Spread hash browns evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the cooked sausage and onion mixture over the potatoes.
In a mixing bowl, whisk eggs, cream, salt, and pepper vigorously for 30 seconds until frothy.
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the potato and sausage layer. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top.
Bake for 35-40 minutes until eggs are set and top is golden brown. If browning too fast, cover loosely with foil for the last 10 minutes.
Let rest for 5-10 minutes before cutting to allow structure to set.

Notes

If using fresh diced potatoes, par-boil them for 5 minutes and pat dry to prevent sogginess. Do not use pre-shredded cheese as it contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. For make-ahead, assemble the night before and refrigerate; add 5-10 minutes to baking time if starting cold.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Breakfast
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 280
Sugar: 2
Sodium: 580
Fat: 18
Saturated Fat: 8
Carbohydrates: 15
Fiber: 2
Protein: 18

Keywords: breakfast casserole, make-ahead breakfast, sausage egg casserole, easy breakfast, freezer friendly, gluten-free option