If you’re searching for a dish that offers comfort and ease on busy mornings, this overnight breakfast casserole has you covered! With layers of savory breakfast sausage, crispy hash browns, and gooey cheddar cheese, it’s not just a meal; it’s a cozy gathering of flavors that families adore. Perfect for those lazy weekends, holiday brunches, or whenever you’re hosting a crowd, this casserole allows you to prepare ahead of time, giving you more quality moments with loved ones and less time in the kitchen!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This casserole is the ultimate solution for a hassle-free start to your day. Simple to prepare yet rich in flavor, it combines freshness and convenience without breaking the bank. Kids and adults alike will fall in love with the delicious layers, making it an ideal crowd-pleaser.
“This casserole is a game changer! I made it for our Sunday brunch, and everyone went back for seconds. So easy and delicious!” – Happy Home Cook
How to Make The Ultimate Overnight Breakfast Casserole
Crafting this delightful breakfast features a simple assembly of layers packed with flavor. From browning the sausage to preparing the egg mixture, the process may be straightforward, but the end result is exceptionally rewarding. Here’s what you’ll need to gather for this delicious breakfast casserole:
Ingredients
1 pound breakfast sausage
1 package frozen hash browns (about 30 oz)
8 large eggs
1 cup milk
1 cup sour cream
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 cup chopped green onions
Substitution tip: You can swap out the breakfast sausage for turkey sausage or even a plant-based alternative for a lighter or vegetarian version. Feel free to use fresh hash browns if you prefer that texture!
Directions
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage until it’s nicely browned. Once done, set it aside to cool.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, sour cream, salt, and pepper until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Layer half of the hash browns across the bottom, then add half of the cooked sausage, and sprinkle a layer of shredded cheddar cheese on top.
- Repeat the layering process with the remaining hash browns, sausage, and cheese.
- Pour the egg mixture evenly over all the layered ingredients, ensuring an even distribution.
- Cover the dish with foil and refrigerate overnight to let the flavors meld.
- In the morning, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole, covered, for 45 minutes.
- After 45 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden and the casserole is fully set.
- Once done, remove from the oven and sprinkle with chopped green onions before serving it warm.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your breakfast casserole, consider serving it with a fresh green salad for some crunch, or accompany it with fruit for a vibrant touch. Consider adding some sliced avocado or a dollop of salsa on top for added flavor. This hearty dish is also great alongside warm biscuits or muffins for a full brunch spread!
Storage & Reheating
After your delicious meal, you might have leftovers (if you’re lucky!). Store any remaining casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, cut it into portions and freeze for up to 2 months. When reheating, simply place portions in the microwave or oven until heated through, ensuring they maintain their delicious texture.
Pro Tips
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh eggs and dairy make a noticeable difference in flavor.
- Make it spicy: Add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to give it a kick if you’re feeling adventurous!
- Don’t skip the refrigerating step: Allowing the casserole to rest overnight lets the flavors blend beautifully, enhancing every bite.
Variations
Mix things up by introducing different proteins like ham or bacon into the layers. For a twist, try using different types of cheese such as pepper jack for a spicy version or feta for a Mediterranean flair. You can also add seasonal vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra color and nutrition!
FAQs
Can I prepare this casserole without the sausage?
Absolutely! You can omit the sausage for a vegetarian version or replace it with your favorite meat substitute.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free if you use gluten-free hash browns. Always check the labels of the other ingredients.
Can I bake it straight away instead of overnight?
Yes, you can bake it immediately, but letting it rest overnight enhances the flavor and texture. If short on time, simply bake it for a bit longer to ensure it sets properly.
- Morning Muffins
- Quick Brunch Ideas
Overnight Breakfast Casserole
- Total Time: 80 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free, Vegetarian (if sausage is omitted)
Description
This overnight breakfast casserole combines layers of savory sausage, crispy hash browns, and gooey cheddar cheese for a hassle-free, comforting meal.
Ingredients
- 1 pound breakfast sausage
- 1 package frozen hash browns (about 30 oz)
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
Instructions
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage until it’s nicely browned. Once done, set it aside to cool.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, sour cream, salt, and pepper until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Layer half of the hash browns across the bottom, then add half of the cooked sausage, and sprinkle a layer of shredded cheddar cheese on top.
- Repeat the layering process with the remaining hash browns, sausage, and cheese.
- Pour the egg mixture evenly over all the layered ingredients, ensuring an even distribution.
- Cover the dish with foil and refrigerate overnight to let the flavors meld.
- In the morning, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole, covered, for 45 minutes.
- After 45 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden and the casserole is fully set.
- Once done, remove from the oven and sprinkle with chopped green onions before serving it warm.
Notes
For a lighter version, consider turkey sausage or a plant-based alternative. This casserole can be served with a fresh salad or fruit.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 65 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 210mg