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Breakfast Potato Casserole
Have you ever wondered how a simple dish can bring together families and friends around the breakfast table? The answer lies in the beloved Breakfast Potato Casserole—a dish that not only satisfies morning hunger but also captivates taste buds with its rich flavors and textures. Notably, this recipe is known for its versatility and ease of preparation, making it a timeless favorite in kitchens across the globe.
Ingredients List
Creating a hearty Breakfast Potato Casserole begins with selecting the right ingredients. Here’s a mouthwatering list to guide you:
- 2 lbs. of frozen hash browns (or diced fresh potatoes for a fresher taste)
- 1 cup of diced onion (sweet or yellow for a milder flavor)
- 1 cup of bell pepper (red, green, or a mix for a colorful presentation)
- 1 lb. of cooked sausage (spicy or mild, or substitute with turkey sausage for a lighter option)
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups of shredded cheese (cheddar and Monterey Jack are excellent choices)
- 1 cup of milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional add-ins: diced tomatoes, jalapeños, or fresh herbs like parsley for garnish
This ingredient list invites creativity, allowing you to personalize your casserole based on dietary preferences or what you have available.
Timing
In total, this Breakfast Potato Casserole takes approximately 90 minutes to prepare and cook, which is about 20% less time than the average casserole recipe. Here’s the breakdown:
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 70 minutes
With timing like this, you can whip up a hearty breakfast without consuming your entire morning.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures a perfectly cooked casserole with a gooey cheese topping.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage until browned. If you’re using fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns, cook them in the same skillet for added flavor. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the hash browns, cooked sausage, diced onion, and bell peppers. Stir in the milk, eggs, and half of your cheese, along with salt and pepper.
Step 4: Transfer to Baking Dish
Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula. This step is crucial for ensuring even cooking and easy serving.
Step 5: Add Cheese
Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top for that delicious melting effect during baking.
Step 6: Bake
Bake your casserole in the preheated oven for 60-70 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden brown. To avoid a soggy bottom, check doneness by inserting a knife in the center—if it comes out clean, you’re good to go!
Step 7: Serve
Let your Breakfast Potato Casserole cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy the rave reviews!
Nutritional Information
This dish is more than just delicious; it’s also nutritious! Here are estimated nutritional details based on standard serving sizes:
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
-
Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
If you’re looking to lighten the dish while keeping its tantalizing taste, consider these modifications:
- Substitute low-fat cheese or nut-based cheese for a dairy-free option.
- Use egg whites or a plant-based egg alternative to lower cholesterol.
- Replace some of the sausage with spinach or mushrooms to increase fiber and nutrients without sacrificing heartiness.
Serving Suggestions
To enhance your Breakfast Potato Casserole experience, consider serving it with:
- Fresh fruit compote or a side of seasonal fruits for a refreshing contrast.
- A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for added creaminess.
- Classic accompaniments like crispy bacon or breakfast links to round out the meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding the Casserole: Ensure even distribution of all ingredients to avoid soggy spots.
- Not Preheating the Oven: This can lead to uneven cooking or longer cooking times.
- Using Excessive Liquid: Aim to strike a balance between moist and overly wet.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
Leftovers can be a breakfast lifesaver! Here’s how to store them properly:
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
- Freeze: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheat: Microwave portions or reheat in an oven preheated to 350°F until heated through.
Conclusion
The Breakfast Potato Casserole is not just a recipe; it’s a canvas for your morning creativity! Rich in flavor and easy to prepare, it’s perfect for family gatherings and weekday breakfasts alike. Try your hand at this delicious dish and feel free to share your experiences or variations in the comments below!
FAQs
Can I prepare the casserole the night before?
Absolutely! Combine all ingredients and store in the refrigerator overnight. Bake in the morning for a fresh breakfast.
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh potatoes can be sautéed or parboiled. Just ensure they are precooked to avoid crunchiness in the final dish.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Certainly! Skip the sausage and load up on veggies for a delightful vegetarian breakfast potato casserole.
Enjoy this hearty and scrumptious Breakfast Potato Casserole, and don’t forget to check out our other related recipes for more delightful meals!

Breakfast Potato Casserole
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 2 lbs. frozen hash browns (or diced fresh potatoes for a fresher taste)
- 1 cup diced onion (sweet or yellow for a milder flavor)
- 1 cup bell pepper (red, green, or a mix for a colorful presentation)
- 1 lb. cooked sausage (spicy or mild, or substitute with turkey sausage for a lighter option)
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar and Monterey Jack are excellent choices)
- 1 cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional add-ins
- diced tomatoes, jalapeños, or fresh herbs like parsley for garnish Feel free to personalize based on dietary preferences.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage until browned. If using fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns, cook them in the same skillet for added flavor. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the hash browns, cooked sausage, diced onion, and bell peppers. Stir in the milk, eggs, and half of the cheese, along with salt and pepper.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
Baking
- Bake in the preheated oven for 60-70 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden brown.
- Check doneness by inserting a knife in the center—if it comes out clean, it’s ready.
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm.