Introduction
Are you looking for the perfect way to start your day? A hearty breakfast can set the tone for your morning and fuel you with the energy you need to tackle the day ahead. One dish that never fails to impress is the Sausage, Egg & Hash Brown Breakfast Bake. This delicious breakfast bake combines savory sausage, fluffy eggs, and crispy hash browns, all wrapped up in gooey cheddar cheese. It’s an easy-to-make casserole that will please even the pickiest eaters. The flexibility of this dish allows you to incorporate your favorite ingredients, making it a customizable breakfast option for the whole family.
Detailed Ingredients
Sausage: 1 lb (16 oz) breakfast sausage
Eggs: 4 large eggs
Hash Browns: 2 cups frozen hash browns (thawed)
Cheddar Cheese: 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Milk: 1/2 cup milk
Garlic Powder: 1/2 tsp garlic powder
Onion Powder: 1/2 tsp onion powder
Seasoning: Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish: Optional – chopped green onions for garnish
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: Serves approximately 6
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Preheat Oven
To begin your culinary adventure, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your breakfast bake will cook evenly and develop a nice, golden top.
Cook Sausage
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage until browned and fully cooked. Use a spatula to crumble the sausage while it cooks, ensuring even browning. After the sausage is fully cooked, drain any excess fat to keep the dish from being too greasy.
Mix Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. This mixture will create a flavorful base for your breakfast bake. Once the egg mixture is well combined, gently stir in the thawed hash browns and the cooked sausage. The hash browns will add a delightful texture to your bake.
Add Cheese
Mix in 3/4 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese into the egg and sausage mixture. Reserve the remaining 1/4 cup of cheese for topping the bake later. This step adds richness and a cheesy flavor that’s hard to resist.
Prepare Baking Dish
Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. You can use cooking spray or a little butter to ensure that the breakfast bake does not stick. Pour the egg mixture into the prepared dish, spreading it evenly to ensure uniform cooking.
Bake
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. You will know the breakfast bake is ready when the eggs are set and the top is golden brown. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be simply irresistible!
Add Toppings
Once your breakfast bake is cooked to perfection, remove it from the oven and sprinkle the reserved cheddar cheese on top. Let it cool slightly before cutting into squares for serving.
Garnish
For added freshness and flavor, consider garnishing with chopped green onions. This step is optional but highly recommended to elevate the visual appeal and taste of your dish.
Notes
Feel free to add your favorite veggies, like bell peppers, spinach, or even diced tomatoes, for added nutrition and flavor! You can also incorporate different types of cheese or sausage—such as spicy sausage or even turkey sausage—based on your preferences.
Cook techniques
For best results, use a non-stick skillet when cooking the sausage to avoid sticking and ensure even cooking. Additionally, consider covering the baking dish with aluminum foil for the first 20 minutes of baking to help retain moisture, then remove the foil for the last 10 to 15 minutes to allow the top to brown perfectly.
FAQ
Can I prepare this dish the night before?
Yes! This dish can be prepared the night before. Simply assemble all the ingredients in the baking dish, cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and refrigerate. In the morning, remove it from the fridge while you preheat the oven, then bake as directed. You may need to add an additional 5-10 minutes to the baking time due to the cold temperature.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely! You can freeze individual portions of the breakfast bake. Just cool the dish completely, cut it into squares, and wrap each square in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store in the freezer for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
What can I serve with this breakfast bake?
This breakfast bake pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit, yogurt, or a side of mixed greens. For a brunch setting, consider serving it alongside mimosas or freshly brewed coffee to complete the meal.
Conclusion
The Sausage, Egg & Hash Brown Breakfast Bake is a delightful way to start your day. It’s convenient, customizable, and utterly satisfying. With minimal prep and cook time, this dish can seamlessly fit into any busy morning routine. Whether you’re cooking for your family on a quiet weekend or preparing a brunch spread, this breakfast bake will surely impress!
More recipes suggestions and combination
– Breakfast Burritos: Fill tortillas with scrambled eggs, sausage, cheese, and your favorite veggies for a portable and tasty breakfast option.
– Veggie Omelette: Whisk together eggs and toss in your choice of veggies for a lighter, yet hearty start to the day.
– Pancake Casserole: A sweet twist on breakfast, bake pancakes with syrup and berries for a delightful treat.
– Smoothie Bowl: Blend your favorite fruits and yogurt, and top with granola, nuts, and fresh fruit for a refreshing breakfast.
– Quinoa Breakfast Bowl: A protein-packed option topped with eggs, sautéed greens, and salsa for a savory start.
No matter what you choose, remember that a great breakfast can make all the difference! Enjoy your cooking and the process of creating flavorful meals.