Cheesy Sausage Casserole

The rich aroma of a cheesy sausage casserole baking in the oven is something truly irresistible. Imagine being greeted by that warm, savory scent wafting through your kitchen, as family gathers around the table, eager to dig in. Did you know that a serving of this casserole can pack up to 20 grams of protein? That’s a hefty bonus for a dish that feels like a warm hug! This recipe is not only satisfying but also a breeze to whip up, perfect for those early mornings or late-night cravings.

Cheesy Sausage Casserole

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A hearty and satisfying cheesy sausage casserole that’s perfect for breakfast or brunch, packed with flavor and protein.

• Author: amanda-miller
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Breakfast
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Omnivore

Ingredients

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• 1 lb sausage (spicy or mild)
• 6 large eggs
• 2 cups milk (whole or low-fat)
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup diced hash browns (frozen or freshly shredded)
• ½ cup chopped green onions

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Instructions

1. Cook the sausage in a skillet over medium heat until browned and crumbly, about 5-7 minutes; drain excess fat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder until smooth.
3. Stir in the cooked sausage, shredded cheddar cheese, and diced hash browns until combined.
4. Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Bake at 350°F for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is set and golden.
6. Let it cool slightly before garnishing with chopped green onions and serve warm.

Notes

Consider adding bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor. You can freeze leftovers for future meals.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 300
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 700mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 250mg

How to Make Cheesy Sausage Casserole in 30 Minutes

If you’re on the hunt for a quick and delicious breakfast that hits all the right notes, this cheesy sausage casserole is your new best friend. In just half an hour, you can have a hearty meal that pleases both adults and kids alike. Plus, it’s flexible—the perfect canvas for your latest culinary whims. Get ready to impress your family with minimal effort!

Ingredient Breakdown

Here’s what you’ll need to create this comforting masterpiece:

• 1 lb sausage (spicy or mild): Choose your favorite; spicy adds a nice kick, while mild keeps it classic.
• 6 large eggs: The backbone of your casserole, providing richness and fluffiness.
• 2 cups milk (whole or low-fat): Creamy goodness that binds it all together.
• 1 tsp salt: Just the right amount for flavor without overpowering.
• ½ tsp pepper: For a hint of spice.
• 1 tsp garlic powder: Brings warmth and depth.
• 1 tsp onion powder: A classic flavor enhancer.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Because what’s a casserole without cheese?
• 1 cup diced hash browns (frozen or freshly shredded): For that delightful texture.
• ½ cup chopped green onions: Speaks to freshness and color.

Let’s Cook

1. Cook the sausage in a skillet over medium heat until browned and crumbly, about 5-7 minutes; drain excess fat. This keeps your casserole from becoming too greasy.
2. In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder until smooth. Whisk well to incorporate air for a fluffier texture.
3. Stir in the cooked sausage, shredded cheddar cheese, and diced hash browns until combined. Make sure everything is evenly distributed for the best bites.
4. Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly. A little grease goes a long way in preventing sticking!
5. Bake at 350°F for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is set and golden; a toothpick should come out clean. Keep an eye towards the end to avoid overbaking—nobody likes a dry casserole!
6. Let it cool slightly before garnishing with chopped green onions. Serve warm. This step adds a pop of color and freshness!

Nutrition Breakdown

Per serving, this casserole is not just delicious; it’s packed with nutrients. You can expect roughly 300 calories, 20 grams of protein, 15 grams of fat, and 25 grams of carbohydrates. With a good dose of fiber, thanks to the hash browns, it strikes a nice balance. It’s a filling option that won’t leave you hungry for hours, standing strong for a breakfast or even a brunch gathering.

Perfect Pairings

Serving your cheesy sausage casserole? It’s a no-brainer to pair it with fresh fruits like sliced berries or oranges for a hit of vitamin C. Enjoy it with a side of crusty whole-grain toast—perfect for sopping up any cheesy goodness left on your plate. This dish is also ideal for holiday breakfasts or lazy Sunday mornings when you want something comforting yet easy to prepare.

How to Store It Right

To keep your casserole fresh, let it cool completely before storing it in the fridge, where it will last for about 3-4 days. For longer storage, slice the cooled casserole, wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, and then place it in an airtight container in the freezer. It will maintain quality for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy again, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge, and reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. Tip: Reheat gently to preserve that glorious texture!

Pro Tips

1. For added flavor, consider sautéing diced bell peppers or mushrooms with your sausage.
2. Swap out cheddar for Gruyère or gouda for a richer taste.
3. Double the recipe and prepare it in two dishes; keep one for later or share with a friend!
4. If you want a bit of crunch, sprinkle some panko breadcrumbs on top before baking.
5. Serve with a dollop of sour cream or a splash of hot sauce for an extra kick.

Flavor Experiments

1. Seasonal Twist: Add roasted butternut squash in the fall for a warm, sweet flavor contrast.
2. Gourmet Variation: Mix in crumbled feta and sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean flair.
3. Playful Mix: Incorporate taco seasoning and replace cheddar with pepper jack cheese for a fun twist on flavors.

Learn from My Mistakes

1. Overcooking: Cooking too long can dry out the casserole. Keep an eye on it towards the end—pull it out as soon as it’s set.
2. Skipping the grease: Not greasing the dish can lead to an unwelcome sticky situation. Always grease that casserole dish!
3. Uneven mixing: If the ingredients aren’t mixed well, you might end up with bites that vary wildly in flavor. Give it a good stir!
4. Using frozen sausage: If you start with frozen sausage, the cooking time can double. Always ensure it’s thawed first for even cooking.
5. Ignoring the cooling time: Cutting too soon can lead to a messy slice. Give it a few minutes to firm up!

Creative Second-Day Ideas

1. Use leftover casserole as a filling for breakfast burritos—simple wrap and go!
2. Crumble it over a fresh salad for an easy, flavorful lunch.
3. Mix it into scrambled eggs for a hearty twist on your traditional morning fare.

Quick Questions

Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare it the night before, refrigerate it, and bake it in the morning.

What can I substitute for sausage? Try turkey sausage, chicken sausage, or even sautéed vegetables for a meat-free version.

Is this casserole good for freezing? Yes, it freezes wonderfully. Just ensure you store it in an airtight container and reheat thoroughly before serving.

Can I use different cheeses? Definitely! Feel free to mix up cheeses to suit your tastes—mozzarella, pepper jack, or a blend can elevate the flavor.