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Crispy Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole Recipe with Perfect Crunch

crispy hash brown breakfast casserole - featured image

A hearty and easy breakfast casserole featuring crispy hash browns with a creamy, cheesy egg mixture and savory sausage, perfect for brunch or gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 30 oz (850 g) frozen shredded hash browns (Ore-Ida recommended)
  • 2 cups (200 g) shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup (150 g) cooked breakfast sausage, crumbled (or bacon/ham)
  • 6 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 cup (240 ml) whole milk (or almond milk for lighter version)
  • 1/2 cup (120 g) sour cream
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 cup (15 g) chopped green onions (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Spread frozen hash browns evenly in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Press gently to form a flat layer. Par-bake for 15 minutes until lightly golden.
  3. Cook breakfast sausage in a skillet over medium heat until browned and cooked through. Drain excess grease.
  4. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, sour cream, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
  5. Remove hash browns from oven. Spread cooked sausage evenly over the top, then sprinkle 1 1/2 cups (150 g) shredded cheddar cheese.
  6. Pour egg mixture gently over the layers, allowing it to seep through.
  7. Sprinkle remaining 1/2 cup (50 g) cheddar cheese on top.
  8. Bake uncovered for 35-40 minutes until casserole puffs up, top is golden brown, and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. Tent with foil if browning too fast.
  9. Let casserole rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Sprinkle chopped green onions on top if desired.

Notes

Par-baking the hash browns is essential to achieve a crispy crust and avoid sogginess. Use room temperature eggs and dairy for a smooth custard. Drain cooked sausage well to prevent greasiness. Tent with foil if the top browns too quickly. This casserole can be assembled ahead and refrigerated overnight before baking. It freezes well for up to 2 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: hash brown casserole, breakfast casserole, crispy hash browns, brunch recipe, cheesy breakfast bake, easy breakfast, sausage casserole