This Egg and Hashbrown Casserole is a warm, comforting dish perfect for breakfast or brunch! It’s made with crispy hashbrowns, fluffy eggs, and melted cheese for a tasty treat.
Can we take a moment to appreciate how easy this is to whip up? Just mix everything together, bake, and enjoy! I love serving it with some fresh fruit on the side—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Hashbrowns: Frozen shredded hashbrowns are perfect for this recipe. If you don’t have them, you can grate fresh potatoes and squeeze out the excess moisture. This adds a nice, crispy texture to the casserole.
Breakfast Sausage: The sausage adds great flavor, but it’s also okay to skip or substitute with cooked bacon or turkey sausage if you prefer. For a vegetarian option, leave it out and add more veggies instead.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar provides a delicious cheesy flavor. If you’re looking for something different, try using Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack for a kick, or a blend of cheeses for more depth.
Sour Cream: This keeps the casserole creamy. Greek yogurt can be a healthy substitute, and it will add some extra protein!
What’s the Best Way to Ensure a Perfectly Cooked Casserole?
Cooking this casserole right is key for the best results. You want it fully set but still moist and cheesy. Here are some steps to follow:
- Make sure to thaw your hashbrowns completely and press them lightly to remove excess moisture.
- Mix dry and wet ingredients separately before combining them. This ensures even distribution of flavor.
- Check for doneness by inserting a knife or toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean, it’s ready!
- Let it sit for a few minutes after baking. This helps it set and makes slicing easier.
These tips will help you achieve a delicious and well-cooked casserole! Happy cooking!
Egg And Hashbrown Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 4 cups frozen shredded hashbrowns, thawed
- 1 cup cooked breakfast sausage, crumbled (optional)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
Creamy Mixture:
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
Seasonings:
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For Baking:
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Egg and Hashbrown Casserole will take about 15-20 minutes for prep and 45-50 minutes for baking. So, you’ll spend around 1 hour to 1 hour and 10 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is warming up, grease a 9×9-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Hashbrown Base:
In a large bowl, combine the thawed hashbrowns, crumbled cooked sausage (if you’re using it), 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, and the chopped onions. Mix everything gently until well combined.
3. Prepare the Egg Mixture:
In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until everything is well mixed and smooth.
4. Combine Mixtures:
Now, pour the egg mixture over the hashbrown mixture. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients evenly, making sure everything is covered nicely.
5. Bake the Casserole:
Transfer the combined mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle some extra cheddar cheese on top for a deliciously cheesy crust. Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for about 45-50 minutes, or until the casserole is set in the middle and the top is beautifully golden brown.
6. Cool and Serve:
Once done, carefully remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes. This helps it cool slightly and makes serving easier. If you want, garnish with fresh parsley or chives before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy this hearty breakfast or brunch dish!
Enjoy your tasty Egg and Hashbrown Casserole!
Can I Use Fresh Hashbrowns Instead of Frozen?
Yes, you can! If using fresh hashbrowns, make sure to grate them and squeeze out any excess moisture. This will help achieve a crispy texture in the casserole.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Simply omit the breakfast sausage and consider adding extra vegetables such as bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition!
Can I Prepare This Casserole in Advance?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it in the morning; you may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in the microwave or oven until heated through. Enjoy it as a quick breakfast option!