Sausage Hash Brown Bake: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Are you looking for a hearty, satisfying, and easy-to-make meal that will please the whole family? Look no further than Sausage Hash Brown Bake! This dish combines the savory goodness of sausage with the crispy comfort of hash browns, all baked together in a cheesy, creamy sauce. It’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or dinner, and it’s incredibly versatile – you can easily customize it to your liking with different types of sausage, cheeses, and vegetables.

This recipe is a crowd-pleaser for a reason. It’s relatively simple to prepare, requires minimal active cooking time, and delivers maximum flavor and comfort. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family on a busy weeknight or hosting a brunch for friends, Sausage Hash Brown Bake is a guaranteed hit.

## Why You’ll Love This Sausage Hash Brown Bake

* **Comfort Food Classic:** This bake is pure comfort food in every bite. The combination of savory sausage, crispy hash browns, creamy sauce, and melted cheese is simply irresistible.
* **Easy to Make:** With just a few simple steps, you can have this delicious bake in the oven in no time. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.
* **Versatile:** You can easily customize this recipe to your liking. Use different types of sausage, cheese, or vegetables to create your own unique version.
* **Crowd-Pleaser:** This bake is always a hit with family and friends. It’s perfect for potlucks, brunch gatherings, or any occasion where you need a delicious and satisfying dish.
* **Make-Ahead Option:** You can assemble this bake ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it. This makes it a great option for meal prepping or entertaining.
* **Budget-Friendly:** Using simple ingredients, this bake is an affordable and delicious option for feeding a crowd.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

Before we dive into the recipe, let’s gather the ingredients you’ll need. Here’s a breakdown of everything you’ll need to create this delightful Sausage Hash Brown Bake:

* **Sausage:** 1 pound, breakfast sausage (ground or links, casings removed). You can use mild, medium, or hot sausage depending on your preference. Italian sausage also works well.
* **Hash Browns:** 30 ounces, frozen shredded hash browns, thawed. Make sure to thaw them properly and squeeze out any excess moisture for optimal crispiness.
* **Onion:** 1 medium, chopped. Adds a savory depth of flavor to the bake.
* **Bell Pepper:** 1/2 cup, chopped (optional). Adds color and a slightly sweet flavor. Red, green, or yellow bell peppers work well.
* **Cheese:** 2 cups, shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite). Cheddar is a classic choice, but you can also use Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or a blend of cheeses.
* **Eggs:** 6 large. Act as a binder and help create a creamy texture.
* **Milk:** 1 cup. Adds moisture and creaminess to the egg mixture.
* **Heavy Cream:** 1/2 cup (optional, for extra richness). You can substitute with more milk if desired.
* **Garlic Powder:** 1 teaspoon. Enhances the savory flavor.
* **Onion Powder:** 1 teaspoon. Complements the chopped onion.
* **Salt:** 1/2 teaspoon (or to taste). Adjust to your preference.
* **Black Pepper:** 1/4 teaspoon (or to taste). Adds a touch of spice.
* **Optional Add-ins:** Chopped green onions, diced tomatoes, mushrooms, spinach, or jalapenos for extra flavor and texture.

## Equipment You’ll Need

* Large Skillet
* 9×13 inch Baking Dish
* Large Bowl
* Whisk
* Measuring Cups and Spoons

## Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that we have our ingredients and equipment ready, let’s get started with the step-by-step instructions for making this amazing Sausage Hash Brown Bake:

**Step 1: Prepare the Sausage**

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage until it’s browned and cooked through. If using sausage links, remove the casings before cooking.
2. Break the sausage apart into crumbles as it cooks using a spatula or spoon.
3. Drain off any excess grease from the skillet.
4. If adding onion and bell pepper, add them to the skillet with the cooked sausage and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.

**Step 2: Prepare the Hash Browns**

1. Thaw the frozen hash browns completely.
2. Squeeze out any excess moisture from the thawed hash browns. This will help them crisp up better in the oven. You can do this by placing the hash browns in a clean kitchen towel and squeezing.

**Step 3: Prepare the Egg Mixture**

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.

**Step 4: Assemble the Bake**

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray.
3. Spread the thawed and squeezed hash browns evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
4. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese over the hash browns.
5. Spread the cooked sausage mixture evenly over the cheese.
6. Pour the egg mixture over the sausage.
7. Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top.

**Step 5: Bake the Hash Brown Casserole**

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the egg mixture is set. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean.
2. If the top starts to brown too quickly, you can loosely cover the baking dish with aluminum foil during the last 15-20 minutes of baking.

**Step 6: Let it Rest and Serve**

1. Once the bake is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before cutting and serving. This allows the egg mixture to set completely.
2. Garnish with chopped green onions or fresh parsley, if desired.
3. Serve hot and enjoy!

## Tips and Variations

* **Sausage Variations:** Experiment with different types of sausage to find your favorite flavor combination. Italian sausage, chorizo, or even vegetarian sausage alternatives work well in this recipe.
* **Cheese Variations:** Use your favorite type of cheese or a blend of cheeses. Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, pepper jack, or even Gruyere would be delicious.
* **Vegetable Additions:** Add extra vegetables to the sausage mixture for added flavor and nutrients. Diced tomatoes, mushrooms, spinach, or jalapenos are all great options.
* **Spice it Up:** For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the egg mixture or use hot sausage.
* **Make it Gluten-Free:** This recipe is naturally gluten-free if you use gluten-free sausage.
* **Make it Dairy-Free:** Use dairy-free cheese alternatives and almond milk or soy milk in place of milk and heavy cream.
* **Make it Ahead:** Assemble the bake ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator overnight. Add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time when you’re ready to bake it.
* **Add a Topping:** Top the bake with breadcrumbs or crushed crackers for added texture.

## Serving Suggestions

Sausage Hash Brown Bake is a complete meal on its own, but here are some serving suggestions to make it even more special:

* **Breakfast/Brunch:** Serve with fresh fruit, yogurt, or a side of toast.
* **Lunch/Dinner:** Serve with a side salad or roasted vegetables.
* **For a Crowd:** Serve alongside other breakfast or brunch favorites like pancakes, waffles, or French toast.
* **Sauces:** Offer a variety of sauces for drizzling, such as hot sauce, sour cream, or salsa.

## Storage Instructions

* **Leftovers:** Store leftover Sausage Hash Brown Bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
* **Reheating:** Reheat individual portions in the microwave or bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
* **Freezing:** You can freeze the baked Sausage Hash Brown Bake for up to 2-3 months. Let it cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

## Nutritional Information (Approximate)

*Note: Nutritional information is approximate and may vary depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes.*

* Calories: 350-450 per serving
* Fat: 25-35 grams
* Saturated Fat: 12-18 grams
* Cholesterol: 200-250 mg
* Sodium: 500-700 mg
* Carbohydrates: 15-25 grams
* Fiber: 2-4 grams
* Sugar: 2-5 grams
* Protein: 15-20 grams

## Sausage Hash Brown Bake Recipe Card

recipe
**Yields:** 6-8 servings
**Prep time:** 20 minutes
**Cook time:** 45-55 minutes

**Ingredients:**

* 1 pound breakfast sausage (ground or links, casings removed)
* 30 ounces frozen shredded hash browns, thawed
* 1 medium onion, chopped
* ½ cup chopped bell pepper (optional)
* 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite)
* 6 large eggs
* 1 cup milk
* ½ cup heavy cream (optional)
* 1 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1 teaspoon onion powder
* ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
* ¼ teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
* Optional add-ins: Chopped green onions, diced tomatoes, mushrooms, spinach, or jalapenos

**Equipment:**

* Large Skillet
* 9×13 inch Baking Dish
* Large Bowl
* Whisk
* Measuring Cups and Spoons

**Instructions**

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook sausage in a large skillet over medium heat until browned and cooked through. Drain excess grease. Add onion and bell pepper (if using) and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Thaw hash browns completely and squeeze out excess moisture.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
5. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Spread hash browns evenly across the bottom of the dish.
7. Sprinkle half of the cheese over the hash browns.
8. Spread the cooked sausage mixture over the cheese.
9. Pour the egg mixture over the sausage.
10. Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top.
11. Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the egg mixture is set.
12. Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped green onions or fresh parsley, if desired.

**Notes**

* Customize with different types of sausage, cheese, and vegetables.
* Make it ahead of time and store in the refrigerator overnight.
* Add a topping of breadcrumbs or crushed crackers for added texture.

## Conclusion

Sausage Hash Brown Bake is the perfect recipe for a comforting and satisfying meal. It’s easy to make, versatile, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re looking for a hearty breakfast, a delicious brunch, or a simple dinner, this bake is sure to hit the spot. So gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and get ready to enjoy a truly unforgettable dish!