Savory Sausage and Potato Breakfast Casserole

Indulge in the delightful experience of a warm and hearty breakfast with this Savory Sausage and Potato Breakfast Casserole, a super easy and delicious dish that has become a favorite for brunch gatherings. This recipe, inspired by a dish found on Epicurious.com, offers a perfect blend of savory sausage, creamy cheddar cheese, and tender potatoes, making it a satisfying start to your day. Whether you’re serving it to family or friends, this casserole is sure to impress with its comforting flavors and straightforward preparation.

Recipe Details

Ingredients

To create this delicious casserole, gather the following ingredients, ensuring you have everything on hand for a seamless cooking experience:

Nutritional Information

Here’s a glance at the nutritional content per serving, ensuring you can enjoy this dish while keeping track of your dietary needs:

Instructions

Creating this delectable casserole is straightforward, making it a great choice for busy mornings or relaxed weekends. Follow these detailed instructions for best results:

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step ensures that your casserole cooks evenly and thoroughly.

2. Prepare the Baking Dish: While the oven heats up, take an 8×8-inch baking dish and butter it generously. This will prevent the casserole from sticking and make for easy serving later.

3. Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the bulk sausage. Cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces with a spatula, which should take about 5 to 7 minutes. Ensure that the sausage is fully cooked and no longer pink.

4. Make the Sauce: Sprinkle the flour over the cooked sausage, stirring to combine. Gradually add in the milk, continuing to stir until the mixture comes to a boil. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until it thickens, creating a creamy sauce that will bring flavor to the casserole.

5. Layer the Ingredients: Without needing to thaw, arrange the frozen cubed hash browns evenly across the bottom of the prepared dish. This will serve as a hearty base for your casserole.

6. Add the Toppings: Sprinkle one-third of the chopped green onions (if using) over the hash browns, followed by 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese. Layer half of the sausage mixture on top, followed by another third of the onions, and finish with the remaining cheese.

7. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven, baking uncovered for approximately 45 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

8. Serve: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Sprinkle the remaining onions on top for an added fresh crunch. Serve warm and enjoy the comforting blend of flavors with your loved ones.

Tips for Customization

This casserole is wonderfully versatile, allowing for various adaptations to suit your preferences:

• Potato Variations: Consider using O’Brien potatoes, which add a mix of bell peppers for an extra layer of flavor and color.
• Vegetable Additions: Feel free to add other vegetables such as bell peppers or spinach for additional nutrition and flavor.
• Leftover Magic: If you have leftovers, you can reheat them the next day. For a fun twist, scramble some eggs and mix them into the leftover casserole for a delicious second-day breakfast.

Final Thoughts

The Savory Sausage and Potato Breakfast Casserole is not only a satisfying meal for brunch but also a fantastic option for breakfast on busy weekdays. Its ease of preparation, combined with the hearty flavors, ensures that it will be a staple in your recipe repertoire. Enjoy sharing this delightful dish with family and friends, and watch as it quickly becomes a beloved favorite at your breakfast table.