Breakfast Casserole Recipe

Learn how to make the best homemade breakfast casserole with this easy baking recipe. Layers of hash browns, sausage, eggs, and cheese come together for a make-ahead morning masterpiece perfect for feeding a crowd. Simple preparation with impressive results—ideal for holiday mornings or weekend brunches!

Difficulty:

Beginner

Prep Time:

25 mins

Cook Time:

45 mins

Serves:

8 servings

Ingredients

<ul class="ingredients-main-list"> <li class="ingredients-single-item">450g frozen hash browns, thawed</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">2 tbsp olive oil</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">1 tsp salt, divided</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">400g breakfast sausage (or vegetarian sausage alternative)</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">1 medium onion, diced</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">1 red bell pepper, diced</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">8 large eggs</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">240ml milk</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">1 tsp dried oregano</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">1 tsp garlic powder</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">1/2 tsp black pepper</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">200g cheddar cheese, grated</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">100g mozzarella cheese, grated</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">3 tbsp fresh chives, chopped (plus extra for garnish)</li> </ul>

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🍽️ Serving Size: 1 serving

🔥 Calories: 385 calories

🥑 Fat: 26 g

🧈 Saturated Fat: 10 g

🍞 Carbohydrates: 18 g

🍭 Sugar: 2 g

🍗 Protein: 19 g

🫀 Cholesterol: 215 mg

🧂 Sodium: 720 mg

Equipment

<ul class="equipment-main-list"> <li class="equipment-single-item">23x33cm (9x13-inch) baking dish</li> <li class="equipment-single-item">Large non-stick skillet</li> </ul>

Directions

<ol class="no-list-style"> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 1</h4> Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and lightly grease a 23x33cm baking dish. Squeeze any excess moisture from the thawed hash browns using paper towels - this ensures they'll crisp properly rather than becoming soggy. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 2</h4> In a large bowl, toss the hash browns with olive oil and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Press them evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking dish to create a crust. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the edges begin to turn golden brown - this pre-baking step creates a wonderful crispy base for your casserole. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 3</h4> While the hash browns are baking, heat a large non-stick skillet over medium heat and add the sausage. Break it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks until it's browned and crumbly, about 8-10 minutes. Transfer the cooked sausage to a paper-towel lined plate to drain any excess fat. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 4</h4> In the same skillet, using the residual sausage fat (or add a touch more olive oil if needed), sauté the diced onion and bell pepper until softened, about 5-6 minutes. The natural sugars in the vegetables will start to caramelize, adding depth of flavor to your casserole. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 5</h4> In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt, dried oregano, garlic powder, and black pepper until well combined. The milk adds protein and creates a custard-like texture that will bake up light and fluffy. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 6</h4> Once the hash brown base has pre-baked, remove it from the oven. Spread the cooked sausage evenly over the hash browns, followed by the sautéed vegetables. Sprinkle half of both cheeses over the meat and vegetable layer. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 7</h4> Pour the egg mixture carefully over everything, allowing it to seep into all the layers. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top, followed by the chopped chives. The layering method ensures flavor in every bite. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 8</h4> Bake the casserole uncovered for 35-40 minutes, or until the center is set and no longer jiggles when gently shaken. The top should be beautifully golden brown with bubbling cheese. If the top starts browning too quickly, loosely cover with aluminum foil for the remaining baking time. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 9</h4> Allow the casserole to rest for 10 minutes before serving - this resting time is crucial as it allows the eggs to set completely and makes slicing much easier. Garnish with additional fresh chives and serve warm. The casserole can be refrigerated overnight and reheated the next morning at 160°C (320°F) for 20 minutes if you prefer to make it ahead. </li> </ol>

FAQs

Find answers to your most pressing questions about this delicious recipe right here.

What ingredients are used in Breakfast Casserole Recipe?

This hearty breakfast casserole combines frozen hash browns, breakfast sausage, onion, bell pepper, eggs, milk, cheese (cheddar and mozzarella), and seasoning (salt, oregano, garlic powder, black pepper). Fresh chives add a bright finishing touch to this complete morning meal.

How to cook Breakfast Casserole Recipe at home?

Learn how to cook Breakfast Casserole Recipe by layering pre-baked hash browns with browned sausage, sautéed vegetables, and a seasoned egg-milk mixture. The casserole is topped with cheese and baked until golden and set. The beauty lies in its make-ahead potential - prepare it the night before and simply bake in the morning for a stress-free breakfast.

Can I make this breakfast casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! This breakfast casserole is perfect for making ahead. You can assemble it completely the night before, cover and refrigerate overnight, then bake in the morning. Alternatively, you can bake it, refrigerate, and reheat portions at 160°C for 20 minutes when needed.

What are good substitutions for the meat in a breakfast bake?

For a vegetarian version, use plant-based sausage alternatives, crumbled firm tofu seasoned with smoked paprika, or sautéed mushrooms. You can also substitute bacon, ham, or chorizo for the sausage, or simply increase the vegetables for a meat-free option rich in flavour.

How do I know when my egg casserole is completely cooked?

A properly cooked egg casserole should reach an internal temperature of 71°C (160°F). The centre should be set and no longer jiggly when gently shaken. Insert a knife in the middle - it should come out clean. Allow 10 minutes of resting time after baking for the eggs to finish setting.

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