Sausage Hashbrown Casserole

## **Instructions**

### **Step 1: Cook the Sausage**
1. In a large skillet, cook the **sausage** over medium heat until it’s browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the **chopped onion** (and **bell pepper**, if using) to the skillet and sauté until the vegetables are softened, about **3-4 minutes**. Once cooked, set the sausage mixture aside.

### **Step 2: Prepare the Casserole Base**
1. Preheat your oven to **350°F (175°C)**.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the **eggs**, **milk**, **salt**, **pepper**, **garlic powder**, and **paprika**.
3. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, layer the **frozen hashbrowns** evenly across the bottom. Top the hashbrowns with the cooked sausage mixture, making sure it’s spread out evenly.

### **Step 3: Assemble the Casserole**
1. Pour the egg mixture over the sausage and hashbrowns, making sure everything is covered.
2. Sprinkle the **shredded cheese** evenly over the top.

### **Step 4: Bake the Casserole**
1. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for **40-45 minutes**.
2. After this time, remove the foil and continue baking for another **10-15 minutes** until the cheese is bubbly and the casserole is fully set.
3. Let the casserole rest for about **5 minutes** before serving.

### **Step 5: Garnish & Serve**
1. Garnish with fresh **parsley** or **green onions** for an extra burst of color and flavor.
2. Serve warm and enjoy this hearty casserole with a side of fresh fruit or a light salad if you prefer!

## **Tips for the Perfect Sausage Hashbrown Casserole**
🥔 **Hashbrown Alternatives** – If you prefer, you can use fresh, shredded potatoes instead of frozen hashbrowns. Just be sure to cook them slightly before layering in the casserole.
🌶 **Spice It Up** – If you like a little heat, try using spicy sausage or adding a few dashes of hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the egg mixture.
🧀 **Cheese Variety** – Experiment with different cheeses! While cheddar is a classic choice, you can also use mozzarella, pepper jack, or Swiss for a different flavor profile.
🥄 **Make Ahead** – This casserole can be made ahead of time! Prepare the casserole and refrigerate it overnight, then bake it the next morning. You might need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
🥘 **Add Veggies** – Feel free to add more veggies to this casserole—sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini would all be great additions for extra flavor and nutrition.

## **Final Thoughts**
This **Sausage Hashbrown Casserole** is the epitome of comfort food. It’s hearty, cheesy, and packed with flavors that everyone will love. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weekday breakfast or preparing a dish for a weekend brunch gathering, this casserole will be the star of the meal. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile, so you can make it your own by adjusting ingredients based on what you have on hand.

So, the next time you’re craving a filling breakfast or an easy dinner, give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!

What’s your go-to breakfast casserole? Let’s share ideas for more hearty, delicious dishes! 🥔🍳