As the sun peeks through the kitchen window, the rich, savory scent of crispy beef sausage mingles with the comforting aroma of hashbrowns, making it impossible to resist breakfast. My Easy Cheesy Beef Sausage Hashbrown Casserole is here to revolutionize your mornings, offering a delightful make-ahead solution that’s both family-friendly and unbelievably easy to prepare. This overnight casserole is perfect for busy weekdays or lazy weekends, giving you a scrumptious start without the mad dash in the morning. With its creamy, cheesy goodness and the heartiness of sausage and hashbrowns, it’s no wonder this dish has become a favorite in my home. Are you curious about how to whip up this delightful breakfast treat? Let’s dive into the recipe! Why Choose This Breakfast Casserole? Effortless Prep: This casserole requires minimal hands-on time, letting you enjoy a peaceful morning while it bakes. Just mix, refrigerate, and bake! Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family gatherings or brunches, its cheesy and savory flavors appeal to everyone, making it a go-to breakfast choice. Versatile: Swap ingredients easily, like using turkey sausage or adding your favorite veggies, making it adaptable to any dietary needs. Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare it the night before, and wake up to a hot, comforting meal that’s ready to serve when you are. Hearty Satisfaction: With layers of crispy hashbrowns and rich beef sausage, this casserole is both filling and delicious, setting you up for the day ahead. For another easy and delicious option, try my recipe for Cheesy Hamburger Casserole or the Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole perfect for any gathering! Cheesy Beef Sausage Hashbrown Casserole Ingredients • The perfect blend of flavors awaits! For the Casserole Shredded Mild Cheddar Cheese – Provides creaminess and a rich cheesy flavor; substitute with Monterey Jack for a milder taste or Pepper Jack for a spicy kick. Frozen Shredded Hash Browns – Acts as the base of the casserole, providing texture; thaw before use or microwave if short on time. Beef Breakfast Sausage – Adds savory depth; use hot sausage for spiciness or swap for turkey sausage for a lighter option. Milk – Increases creaminess and moisture; can be substituted with half-and-half for a richer flavor. Eggs – Binds the casserole together, creating a custard-like texture; no substitutes for this core ingredient. Onion Powder – Adds savory undertones; fresh onions can be used for a stronger flavor if desired. Garlic Powder – Enhances flavor depth; using fresh minced garlic is a tasty alternative. Salt and Pepper – These basic seasonings elevate the overall taste; adjust to your preference. Optional Toppings Additional Cheddar Cheese – Sprinkle on top before baking for a gooey, extra-cheesy finish. Fresh Chives – Adds a burst of flavor and color; sprinkle on right before serving. Sour Cream – Serve on the side for a cool, creamy contrast to the savory casserole. Enjoy the delightful adventure of preparing this Cheesy Beef Sausage Hashbrown Casserole, a recipe designed to bring warmth and joy to your mornings! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cheesy Beef Sausage Hashbrown Casserole Step 1: Cook Sausage In a large skillet over medium-high heat, crumble 2 lbs of beef breakfast sausage. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess grease from the skillet to prevent a greasy casserole, then set the cooked sausage aside to allow the flavors to deepen. Step 2: Prepare Egg Mixture In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 8 eggs and 2 cups of milk until uniform and smooth. Add in 1/4 tsp onion powder, 1/4 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp pepper for seasoning, ensuring each ingredient is well blended. This creamy egg mixture is essential for binding the ingredients together in your Cheesy Beef Sausage Hashbrown Casserole. Step 3: Combine Ingredients Gently fold in 30 oz of thawed frozen shredded hash browns, the cooked sausage, and 1.5 cups of shredded mild cheddar cheese into the egg mixture. Stir until all ingredients are evenly coated, creating a deliciously creamy combination. This step sets the foundation for the hearty filling of the casserole, marrying the flavors beautifully. Step 4: Assemble Casserole Pour the sausage and hash brown mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it evenly, ensuring that the layers are consistent. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. This allows the casserole to soak up the flavors and ensures a satisfying texture for the next morning. Step 5: Bake When ready to serve, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Remove the plastic wrap and sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese on top of the casserole. Bake for 45-55 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the center is set. A toothpick inserted in the middle should come out clean, signaling that your Cheesy Beef Sausage Hashbrown Casserole is ready to enjoy. Step 6: Rest and Serve Once baked, allow the casserole to rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This resting period helps it firm up, making it easier to cut clean portions. Serve warm and consider garnishing with fresh chives or a dollop of sour cream to elevate the delicious flavors of your breakfast treat. Cheesy Beef Sausage Hashbrown Casserole Variations Feel free to get creative with this delightful casserole! The possibilities are endless, allowing you to tailor it to your tastes and dietary needs. Alternate Meats: Swap the beef sausage for crispy bacon or turkey sausage for a lighter twist. Both options add unique flavors, giving your casserole a whole new vibe. Vegetarian Delight: Use plant-based sausage crumbles or replace the meat with sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach. This not only adds nutrition but creates a colorful and hearty dish. Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses! Try gouda for a smokier flavor or pepper jack for a delightful spicy kick, offering a new depth of flavor with every bite. Spice it Up: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños for heat. This gives the casserole a comforting warmth that perfectly complements the creamy cheese and savory sausage. Herb Infusion: Toss in fresh herbs like thyme or chives for an aromatic boost. Their vibrant flavors complement the richness of the casserole, elevating your breakfast. For easy meal prep ideas, consider making variations like the Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole or try something different with the Ooey Gooey Cheesy Garlic Chicken. Embrace your inner chef, and let these variations inspire your next breakfast together! What to Serve with Easy Cheesy Beef Sausage Hashbrown Casserole Start your morning with a wonderful meal that transforms breakfast into a comforting experience. Fresh Fruit Salad: A bright, fruity side adds a refreshing contrast to the savory casserole and cleanses the palate perfectly. Including a mix of berries, melon, and citrus will provide a burst of flavor and color to your table. Dollop of Sour Cream: A creamy topping enhances the richness of the casserole while providing a cool and tangy balance. Just a scoop on each slice makes for a delightful touch that lifts every bite. Crispy Bacon: This classic breakfast staple introduces a crunchy texture and smokiness that pairs well with the cheesy and savory notes. The added crunch of the bacon, alongside the soft casserole, creates a wonderful textural contrast. Savory Sautéed Spinach: Lightly sautéed spinach adds a touch of green while boosting nutrition. Its earthy flavor complements the richness of the casserole, incorporating a fresh element that’s often welcome at breakfast tables. Eggs Any Style: Serve with a sunny-side-up or scrambled egg on the side to boost the protein content of your meal. This not only enhances the breakfast experience but also allows for flavor blending with the casserole’s creamy goodness. Mimosa: For a celebratory touch, pair this dish with a refreshing mimosa. The fruity sweetness of the orange juice combined with champagne offers a lively start to your morning, making it perfect for special occasions or leisurely weekends. Expert Tips for Cheesy Beef Sausage Hashbrown Casserole Drain the Grease: Ensure you drain the sausage well to avoid a greasy casserole, which can ruin the dish’s texture. Whisk Well: Whisk the egg mixture thoroughly to avoid streaks; this promotes a uniform custard-like consistency throughout the cheesy beef sausage hashbrown casserole. Tent with Foil: If the top is browning too quickly while baking, tent it with foil to prevent over-browning while the center continues cooking. Let It Rest: Allow the casserole to rest for 5-10 minutes after baking. This aids in setting the layers and makes slicing easier without crumbling. Thaw Hash Browns: Don’t forget to thaw your frozen hash browns beforehand. Microwaving them quickly can save time if you forget to do it in advance. Storage Tips for Cheesy Beef Sausage Hashbrown Casserole Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until heated through. Freezer: This casserole freezes beautifully! After baking, cool and cut into portions; wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen, then warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-30 minutes until heated through, or microwave individual portions for a quick treat. Serving Suggestion: Enhance your breakfast experience by serving with fresh fruit or a dollop of sour cream upon reheating your cheesy beef sausage hashbrown casserole. Make Ahead Options These Cheesy Beef Sausage Hashbrown Casserole pieces are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the entire casserole up to 24 hours in advance by following the initial assembling steps and simply covering it with plastic wrap before refrigerating. For optimal flavor, allow it to marinate overnight in the fridge. Just remember to bake it fresh the next morning; preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), sprinkle with extra cheese, and bake for 45-55 minutes until golden and set. This way, you’ll enjoy a hearty, comforting breakfast with minimal effort on busy mornings, just as delicious as if you made it from scratch that day! Cheesy Beef Sausage Hashbrown Casserole Recipe FAQs How do I select the right hash browns? You want to use frozen shredded hash browns, ensuring they’re thawed before assembly to avoid excess moisture in the casserole. Look for bags with no ice crystals, which means they’ve been stored properly. If you’re in a hurry, you can microwave them for a few minutes to thaw. How long can I store the leftovers? Store any leftover Cheesy Beef Sausage Hashbrown Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This allows the casserole to maintain its delicious flavors while ensuring you can enjoy it later on busy mornings! Can I freeze this casserole? Absolutely! To freeze, cool the casserole completely after baking and then cut it into individual portions. Wrap each piece tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Your casserole can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just remember to label with the date so you don’t lose track! What should I do if my casserole is too soggy? If your casserole turns out soggy, it’s likely due to not thawing the hash browns adequately or excess moisture from the sausage. For next time, ensure the hash browns are thoroughly thawed and drained before mixing them in. You can also pre-bake them for about 10 minutes at 375°F (190°C) before combining them with the other ingredients to help remove excess moisture. Can my pet have any leftovers? While the Cheesy Beef Sausage Hashbrown Casserole is primarily designed for humans, pets can safely enjoy a small portion without the seasonings. Be cautious of any ingredients that may be harmful, such as onions or excessive dairy. Always consult with your vet if you’re unsure about sharing leftovers. Cheesy Beef Sausage Hashbrown Casserole for Effortless Mornings Delightful Cheesy Beef Sausage Hashbrown Casserole is a family-friendly breakfast that offers a make-ahead solution for busy mornings. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 50 minutes minsResting Time 10 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 15 minutes mins Servings: 8 slicesCourse: BreakfastCuisine: AmericanCalories: 400 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Casserole2 lbs Beef Breakfast Sausage Use hot sausage for spiciness or swap for turkey sausage.30 oz Frozen Shredded Hash Browns Thaw before use or microwave if short on time.8 large Eggs Binds the casserole together.2 cups Milk Can be substituted with half-and-half for a richer flavor.1.5 cups Shredded Mild Cheddar Cheese Provides creaminess and a rich cheesy flavor.1/4 tsp Onion Powder Fresh onions can be used for a stronger flavor.1/4 tsp Garlic Powder Using fresh minced garlic is a tasty alternative.1 tsp Salt Adjust to your preference.1/2 tsp Pepper Adjust to your preference.Optional Toppings1/2 cup Additional Cheddar Cheese Sprinkle on top before baking.Fresh Chives Add right before serving.Sour Cream Serve on the side. Equipment Large SkilletMixing bowl9x13-inch baking dishWhisk Method Step-by-Step InstructionsCook 2 lbs of beef breakfast sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat for about 8-10 minutes until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess grease and set aside.In a mixing bowl, whisk together 8 eggs and 2 cups of milk, then add 1/4 tsp onion powder, 1/4 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp pepper.Fold in 30 oz thawed shredded hash browns, cooked sausage, and 1.5 cups shredded mild cheddar cheese until evenly coated.Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish and cover with plastic wrap. Refrigerate overnight.Preheat oven to 375°F. Remove plastic wrap, sprinkle 1/2 cup cheddar cheese on top, and bake for 45-55 minutes.Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 22gFat: 24gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 220mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg NotesConsider garnishing with fresh chives or a dollop of sour cream before serving. Allowing the casserole to rest before slicing will aid in holding its shape. 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