Cheesy Sausage Hashbrown Casserole is a rich, comforting baked dish that delivers bold flavor, satisfying texture, and pure homemade goodness in every bite. This classic casserole is especially popular as a breakfast or brunch favorite, but it’s hearty enough to serve for lunch or dinner as well. With layers of crispy hashbrowns, savory sausage, and a generous blanket of melted cheese, it’s the kind of recipe that quickly becomes a family staple.
What makes this casserole so irresistible is its simplicity. Using familiar, affordable ingredients, it comes together easily and bakes into a golden, bubbly dish that feeds a crowd with minimal effort. The hashbrowns form a soft yet structured base, the sausage adds depth and richness, and the cheese melts into every corner, creating a creamy, satisfying bite. Whether you’re preparing a weekend brunch, a holiday breakfast, or a comforting weeknight meal, this casserole always delivers.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 (30 oz) bag frozen hashbrowns, thawed
- 1 pound breakfast sausage
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
Creamy Base
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup
- ½ cup sour cream
- ¼ cup milk
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Seasoning
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
Instructions
Cook the Sausage
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage until fully browned and crumbly. Break it apart as it cooks to ensure even browning. Once cooked, drain excess grease and set the sausage aside to cool slightly.
Prepare the Creamy Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream soup, sour cream, milk, melted butter, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Stir until smooth and well blended. This mixture creates the rich, creamy texture that binds the casserole together and keeps it moist during baking.
Assemble the Casserole
Lightly grease a rectangular baking dish. Spread the thawed hashbrowns evenly across the bottom of the dish. Sprinkle the cooked sausage over the hashbrowns, followed by the chopped onion for added flavor and aroma.
Pour the creamy mixture evenly over the sausage and potatoes, making sure it reaches all edges of the dish. Use a spatula to gently spread it if needed. Top everything with shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese, distributing evenly for a uniform, golden finish.
Bake
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes. The cheese should be fully melted, lightly browned, and bubbling around the edges. If you prefer a crispier top, bake for an additional 5–10 minutes until the surface reaches your desired level of golden brown.
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. This helps the layers set and makes serving easier.
Serving Suggestions
Cheesy Sausage Hashbrown Casserole is incredibly versatile. Serve it hot on its own or pair it with scrambled eggs, fresh fruit, or a simple green salad for balance. It also works beautifully alongside toast, biscuits, or fresh bread.
For brunch gatherings, this dish pairs well with coffee, juice, or tea and can be made ahead of time, making it ideal for hosting without stress. Its rich flavor and hearty texture make it especially satisfying during cooler months.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
This casserole also freezes well. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best results.
Why This Recipe Works
Cheesy Sausage Hashbrown Casserole combines creamy, cheesy comfort with savory sausage and tender potatoes in a way that feels both indulgent and familiar. It’s easy to prepare, feeds a crowd, and delivers reliable results every time. With its golden top and rich interior, this casserole is proof that simple ingredients can create unforgettable comfort food.
Warm, filling, and packed with flavor, this Cheesy Sausage Hashbrown Casserole is a dish you’ll return to again and again. 🧀🥔✨