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Cozy Cheesy Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole Easy Sausage Peppers Recipe

cheesy hash brown breakfast casserole - featured image

A hearty and comforting breakfast casserole featuring crispy hash browns, savory sausage, sweet peppers, and a blend of sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Perfect for weekend brunch or cozy mornings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups (about 450g) frozen shredded hash browns
  • 1 pound (450g) ground breakfast sausage (mild or spicy)
  • 1 cup diced bell peppers (about 1 medium pepper, red or green)
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 6 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 cup (240 ml) milk (whole or 2%)
  • 2 cups (200g) shredded cheese (blend of sharp cheddar and mozzarella)
  • Salt and pepper to taste (about 1 teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon pepper)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
  • Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes, fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground sausage, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook for 5-7 minutes until browned and cooked through.
  3. Add diced bell peppers and chopped onion to the skillet. Sauté with the sausage for another 5 minutes until vegetables soften and onions turn translucent.
  4. Drain excess fat if necessary, then set the sausage and veggie mixture aside to cool slightly.
  5. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 6 large eggs and 1 cup (240 ml) milk until smooth. Stir in 1 teaspoon garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
  6. Add 4 cups (450g) frozen shredded hash browns to the egg mixture. Stir gently to coat evenly.
  7. Fold in the sausage and pepper mixture along with 2 cups (200g) shredded cheese. Mix until evenly distributed.
  8. Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish and spread evenly with a spatula.
  9. Bake uncovered for 45-55 minutes until the top is golden brown, the center is set, and a knife inserted in the middle comes out clean.
  10. Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.
  11. Optional: If the top browns too quickly, tent loosely with aluminum foil halfway through baking. For a crispier crust, broil for the last 2-3 minutes, watching closely.

Notes

Do not overmix the egg and hash brown mixture to keep the casserole light and fluffy. Cook sausage fully before baking to avoid excess grease. Sauté peppers and onions until soft for best flavor. Let casserole rest after baking for easier slicing. For extra crispiness, sprinkle additional cheese or crushed cornflakes/breadcrumbs on top before baking. Can be made ahead and baked in the morning with slightly increased baking time.

Nutrition

Keywords: breakfast casserole, hash browns, sausage, peppers, cheesy casserole, brunch recipe, easy breakfast, comfort food