Save Quick Christmas Morning Hash Brown Bake is a festive, comforting breakfast casserole that brings joy to your holiday mornings. Crispy hash browns combine with savory breakfast sausage, melty cheddar cheese, and a well-spiced egg mixture to create a hearty dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for sharing with family and friends.
Save This casserole not only delights the taste buds but also fills your kitchen with comforting aromas. Its golden top and hearty filling make for a beautiful centerpiece on any holiday breakfast table.
Ingredients
- 1 (24 oz / 680 g) bag frozen shredded hash browns, thawed
- 1 lb (450 g) breakfast sausage (pork or turkey), casing removed
- 1 ½ cups (180 g) shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup (60 g) diced red bell pepper
- ½ cup (60 g) diced green onions
- 1 cup (240 ml) whole milk
- 6 large eggs
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
Instructions
- 1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish with olive oil or melted butter.
- 2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage until browned and crumbled, about 5–7 minutes. Drain excess fat.
- 3. In a large bowl, combine thawed hash browns, cooked sausage, diced red bell pepper, green onions, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Mix well.
- 4. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika until fully combined.
- 5. Pour the egg mixture over the hash brown mixture and stir to evenly coat.
- 6. Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Top with the remaining ½ cup cheddar cheese.
- 7. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden brown.
- 8. Let cool for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
Make sure to thaw the hash browns fully before assembling to avoid excess moisture. Browning the sausage thoroughly and draining the fat ensures a rich flavor without greasiness. For an extra crispy top, bake uncovered and consider broiling for the last minute if your oven allows.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For a vegetarian version, omit the sausage or substitute with your favorite vegetarian sausage. Add chopped spinach, mushrooms, or jalapeños to enhance flavor and texture according to your preferences.
Serviervorschläge
Serve warm with a dollop of sour cream or fresh salsa on the side for a zesty contrast. Pair with a fresh fruit salad or your favorite breakfast beverages to complete a festive holiday meal.
Save This Quick Christmas Morning Hash Brown Bake is sure to become a treasured part of your holiday tradition, offering comfort, flavor, and ease all in one satisfying dish.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I make this hash brown bake vegetarian?
Yes, substitute the breakfast sausage with vegetarian sausage or omit it and add extra vegetables like mushrooms or spinach for added flavor.
- → Is it possible to prepare this dish ahead of time?
You can assemble the bake the night before, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. Bake fresh in the morning for best results.
- → What cheese works best in this dish?
Sharp or mild cheddar cheese melts well and adds both flavor and creaminess, complementing the savory ingredients.
- → Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?
Yes, shredding fresh potatoes and patting them dry works, but ensure excess moisture is removed to avoid sogginess.
- → How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Use gluten-free breakfast sausage and confirm no cross-contamination to keep the casserole gluten-free.
- → What temperature and time should I bake it?
Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 35–40 minutes until the center is set and the top is golden brown.