Cheesy Sausage & Hashbrowns Casserole Recipe

If you have ever dreamed of a hearty, comforting dish that combines creamy, cheesy goodness with savory breakfast sausage and the irresistible crispiness of hashbrowns, then you are about to fall in love with this Cheesy Sausage & Hashbrowns Casserole Recipe. This dish comes together easily and offers a satisfying blend of textures and flavors that make it perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a cozy dinner. Trust me, once you try this casserole, it’s going to become your go-to recipe for any occasion that calls for rich, crowd-pleasing comfort food.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for this recipe is wonderfully straightforward, yet each item plays an essential role. From the flavorful breakfast sausage to the creamy tang of sour cream, every component is carefully chosen to bring out the perfect texture, taste, and vibrant color that makes this dish truly special.

• 1 lb breakfast sausage: Provides a savory, meaty base that infuses the casserole with bold flavor.
• 1 package (30 oz) frozen hashbrowns, thawed: Adds crispy and tender potato goodness, forming the hearty foundation.
• 1/2 cup onion, chopped: Brings subtle sweetness and a slight crunch to balance richness.
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup: Creates a creamy, velvety texture that binds the ingredients together perfectly.
• 1 cup sour cream: Adds tang and moisture, giving the casserole a luscious creaminess.
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into gooey, golden layers, providing cheesy, melty perfection.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Lends a mild, aromatic punch that enhances savory depth.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle spicy kick for balanced flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors in the casserole.
• 1/2 cup milk: Pours over the dish for extra moisture, ensuring a creamy finish.

How to Make Cheesy Sausage & Hashbrowns Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, grease a 9×13-inch baking dish well — this is where your casserole magic will happen. Preparing your dish ensures that your delicious creation releases easily after baking.

Step 2: Cook the Sausage

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage until it’s browned and nicely crumbled. It’s important to drain any excess grease afterwards so your casserole doesn’t turn out too oily but remains juicy and flavorful.

Step 3: Mix the Main Components

Grab a large bowl and combine the thawed hashbrowns, chopped onion, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. Mix everything thoroughly to make sure those flavors mingle beautifully.

Step 4: Incorporate the Sausage

Fold your cooked sausage into the mixture gently but thoroughly. This step ensures every bite of your Cheesy Sausage & Hashbrowns Casserole Recipe is bursting with meaty flavor and that the ingredients distribute evenly when baked.

Step 5: Assemble in the Baking Dish

Transfer the combined mixture into your greased dish, spreading it out evenly. This helps the casserole cook uniformly and develop that irresistible golden crust on top.

Step 6: Add Milk for Creaminess

Pour the milk evenly over the top of the casserole. The milk will add moisture and help everything meld together during baking, producing that luscious, creamy texture you’re craving.

Step 7: Cheese It Up!

Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top. This final cheesy layer will melt into a bubbly, golden crown that’s nothing short of irresistible.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Place your casserole in the oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes, until it’s bubbling all around and the cheese on top turns a gorgeous golden brown. This step is where all those flavors and textures fully come together.

Step 9: Cool and Serve

Once baked, let your Cheesy Sausage & Hashbrowns Casserole Recipe cool for a few minutes to settle. This cooling time helps it slice neatly and makes every bite perfectly satisfying.

How to Serve Cheesy Sausage & Hashbrowns Casserole Recipe

Garnishes

Garnishing this casserole enhances both flavor and presentation. Fresh chopped chives, a dollop of sour cream, or sliced green onions add a bright, fresh contrast that cuts through the richness beautifully.

Side Dishes

This casserole pairs wonderfully with simple, lighter sides to balance its richness. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or steamed seasonal vegetables are fantastic complements, adding texture and freshness to your meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Feeling fancy? Scoop the casserole into individual ramekins and bake them for personal-sized servings. You can also top with a fried egg or serve alongside warm, crusty bread for a brunch spread that will wow your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This Cheesy Sausage & Hashbrowns Casserole Recipe stores beautifully in the refrigerator. Cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap and consume within 3 to 4 days for optimal freshness and flavor.

Freezing

You can freeze this casserole either before or after baking. Wrap it securely in freezer-safe containers or foil. If unbaked, freeze for up to 3 months; if baked, try to enjoy it within 2 months for best taste and texture.

Reheating

To reheat, cover the casserole with foil to prevent it from drying out and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. Microwaving works for quick reheats but can make the texture a bit softer – oven reheating is preferred if you want that crispy top back.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of sausage?

Absolutely! While breakfast sausage gives this casserole its classic flavor, you can substitute with Italian sausage, turkey sausage, or even a plant-based alternative. Just make sure to cook it fully before mixing it in.

Is it necessary to thaw the hashbrowns?

Yes, thawing the hashbrowns helps them cook evenly and prevents excess moisture from making your casserole soggy. If you’re short on time, you can thaw them quickly in the microwave.

Can I make this casserole vegetarian?

Definitely! Simply omit the sausage and consider adding diced mushrooms, bell peppers, or a meat substitute to maintain the hearty texture and flavor.

What’s the best cheese to use?

Sharp cheddar cheese is ideal here for its tangy flavor and great meltability, but you can mix in Monterey Jack, Colby, or a blend for a slightly different but equally delicious taste.

Can I prepare this casserole the night before?

Yes! Assemble the casserole as directed, cover tightly, and refrigerate overnight. Bake it fresh the next morning for an easy and impressive meal.

Final Thoughts

This Cheesy Sausage & Hashbrowns Casserole Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate — it’s wonderfully easy to make and delightfully rich in flavor. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or simply want a comforting meal that feels special, this casserole has got you covered. Go ahead and give it a try; I promise it will become a beloved classic in your recipe box.

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