This hearty sausage breakfast casserole is a crowd-pleaser! With layers of savory sausage, fluffy eggs, and crispy bread, it’s a wonderful way to start your day.
I love whipping this up for family brunches. It’s so easy—I just mix everything and let it bake while I sip my coffee. Perfect for lazy mornings and hungry bellies!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Breakfast Sausage: Crumbled breakfast sausage adds great flavor. If you prefer a leaner option or want to reduce fat, try turkey sausage or even plant-based sausage for a meatless version.
Eggs: You’ll need a good amount of large eggs for a fluffy base. If you’re looking for a low-cholesterol option, use egg whites or a substitute like liquid egg replacer.
Hash Browns: Frozen shredded hash browns are super convenient! If you can’t find them, freshly grated potatoes work too, but they might need extra time to cook. Just soak them in water to remove starch and pat dry before use.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a nice kick. If you’re aiming for something different, try Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a bit of spice. Vegan cheese is an excellent alternative as well!
How Do I Make Sure My Casserole is Perfectly Baked?
Baking your casserole right ensures it’s cooked through and enjoyable. Here are some simple steps to nail it:
- Preheat your oven! This helps everything cook evenly.
- Check if the center is firm and not jiggly. You might need a bit more time depending on your oven.
- Let it cool for a few minutes after baking. This allows the casserole to set, making it easier to slice.
Enjoying this dish is all about getting the right consistency, so keep an eye on it while baking!
Pioneer Woman Sausage Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb breakfast sausage (crumbled)
- 10 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 4 cups frozen shredded hash browns (thawed)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup diced red bell pepper
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole requires about 15-20 minutes of prep time and then needs 45-55 minutes to bake. So, total, you’re looking at around 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes before your breakfast is ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating up, take a moment to grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
2. Cook the Sausage:
In a large skillet over medium heat, crumble and cook the breakfast sausage until it’s fully browned and cooked through. Be sure to drain any excess fat after it’s cooked and set the sausage aside. This adds so much flavor to the casserole!
3. Prepare the Egg Mixture:
In a big mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and black pepper until it’s all nicely combined. This is the creamy base of your casserole.
4. Layer the Hash Browns:
Spread the thawed hash browns evenly across the bottom of your greased casserole dish. This will serve as the cozy bed for all the delicious toppings!
5. Add Sausage and Peppers:
Evenly layer the cooked sausage over the hash browns, followed by the diced red bell pepper. This adds a beautiful color and sweetness to the dish.
6. Pour the Egg Mixture:
Carefully pour the prepared egg mixture over the sausage and hash browns, ensuring everything gets coated well.
7. Top with Cheese:
Now sprinkle the shredded sharp cheddar cheese generously over the top. Cheese makes everything better!
8. Bake:
Place the casserole in your preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 45-55 minutes. You want the eggs to be set and the top to be golden brown and bubbly.
9. Cool and Garnish:
Once it’s done baking, take it out and let the casserole cool for about 5-10 minutes. This helps it set a bit more, making it easier to cut into squares.
10. Serve:
Before serving, garnish with sliced green onions and freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness!
This Pioneer Woman Sausage Breakfast Casserole is perfect for filling brunches or breakfast gatherings and can easily be prepped the night before! Enjoy a hearty meal with minimal fuss!
Can I Use a Different Type of Sausage?
Absolutely! You can substitute the breakfast sausage with turkey sausage for a leaner option, or even a plant-based sausage for a vegetarian version. Just ensure it’s cooked thoroughly before layering it in the casserole.
How Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the casserole the night before! Simply assemble it according to the recipe, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. In the morning, bake it straight from the refrigerator, but you may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave or warm it up in the oven until heated through.
What Can I Serve with This Casserole?
This casserole is delicious on its own, but you can serve it with fresh fruit, a light salad, or some buttered toast for a complete meal. A drizzle of hot sauce or salsa can also add a nice kick!