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Sausage & Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole: A Hearty Homemade Recipe

Breakfast is often touted as the most important meal of the day, providing the necessary nourishment to kick-start your morning. If you’re looking for a filling and delicious breakfast option that caters to the whole family, look no further than a Sausage & Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole. This delightful dish combines the rich flavours of sausage with crispy hash browns and a creamy egg mixture, creating a hearty meal perfect for any occasion, be it a leisurely weekend brunch or a festive gathering.

Ingredients

To create this delectable breakfast casserole, you will need:

• 500g (1 lb) fresh sausages (pork, turkey, or your preferred variety)
• 450g (1 lb) frozen hash browns, thawed (or homemade if you prefer)
• 6 large eggs
• 250ml (1 cup) milk (whole or semi-skimmed)
• 200g (1 cup) grated cheese (cheddar works wonderfully)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, diced (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh herbs, like parsley or chives, for garnish (optional)

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). Greasing a large baking dish (about 9×13 inches) with cooking spray or a bit of oil will help prevent the casserole from sticking.

2. Cook the Sausages: In a large skillet, cook the sausages over medium heat until they are browned and cooked through. Once browned, remove from the heat and slice into bite-sized pieces. If you’re using optional vegetables, such as the onion and bell pepper, you can sauté them in the same skillet until they are tender.

3. Assemble the Base: Spread the thawed hash browns evenly across the bottom of your prepared baking dish. This will act as the foundation for your casserole.

4. Layer the Ingredients: Next, scatter the cooked sausage pieces (and sautéed vegetables, if using) over the hash browns. Sprinkle the grated cheese evenly on top of the sausages.

5. Mix the Egg Mixture: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Pour this mixture evenly over the layered ingredients in the baking dish, ensuring everything is well coated.

6. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 35-40 minutes or until the eggs are fully set and the top is golden brown. You can check for doneness by inserting a knife; it should come out clean.

7. Serve: Once ready, allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before slicing it into squares. Garnish with freshly chopped herbs for an added touch of flavour and colour.

Tips and Variations

• Make it Ahead: This casserole can be prepared the night before. Simply complete the assembly, cover it with cling film, and refrigerate. In the morning, just pop it in the oven and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if necessary.

• Vegetarian Option: For a meat-free version, substitute the sausage with cooked mushrooms or plant-based sausage alternatives, and add extra vegetables like spinach or zucchini for a nutritional boost.

• Cheese Choices: While cheddar is a classic choice, feel free to mix in other types of cheese such as mozzarella or feta for a different flavour profile.

Conclusion

The Sausage & Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole is a versatile and satisfying dish that is sure to become a staple in your breakfast repertoire. With minimal preparation and cooking time, it’s perfect for busy mornings or relaxed weekend gatherings. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just your family, this casserole delivers on taste and comfort, making every breakfast feel like a special occasion. Enjoy!