Egg and Hash Brown Casserole is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines crispy hash browns, savory sausage, and a blend of cheeses, all baked together in a rich egg custard. This versatile casserole is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner, and can be customized with your favorite ingredients.
Ingredients:
- 1 (20-ounce) package frozen hash brown potatoes, thawed
- ⅓ cup vegetable oil
- 1 (12-ounce) package bulk pork breakfast sausage
- 6 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup sliced fresh mushrooms
- ¾ cup shredded pepper jack cheese
- ¾ cup shredded Swiss cheese
- ½ cup milk
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon garlic salt
Instructions:
- Prepare the Hash Browns:
- In a large bowl, toss the thawed hash browns with vegetable oil until evenly coated.
- Cook the Sausage:
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the pork sausage until browned and crumbled. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Spread the oiled hash browns evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Distribute the cooked sausage and sliced mushrooms over the hash browns.
- Prepare the Egg Mixture:
- In a bowl, whisk together the beaten eggs, milk, garlic salt, and a pinch of black pepper until well combined.
- Assemble the Casserole (Continued):
- Pour the egg mixture evenly over the hash brown and sausage layer in the baking dish.
- Sprinkle the shredded pepper jack and Swiss cheeses over the top.
- Bake:
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is lightly golden.
- Serve:
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before slicing. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for garnish if desired.
Variations and Tips:
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the pork sausage and add more vegetables such as bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini for a meatless version.
- Cheese Choices: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Gruyère to suit your taste preferences.
- Make-Ahead: Assemble the casserole the night before, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Bake as directed the next morning for a convenient breakfast option.
- Spice It Up: Add diced green chilies or jalapeños to the egg mixture for an extra kick.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair this casserole with a fresh fruit salad or a simple green salad to balance the richness of the dish.
This Egg and Hash Brown Casserole offers a satisfying combination of flavors and textures, making it a favorite for gatherings and family meals. Its adaptability allows you to tailor the ingredients to your liking, ensuring a delicious outcome every time.
