Save Quick Christmas Morning Hash Brown Bake is a festive, comforting breakfast casserole perfect for holiday mornings when you want something hearty but easy to prepare. Crispy hash browns combine with savory breakfast sausage, melty cheddar cheese, and fluffy eggs to create a dish that feels like a warm holiday hug on a plate. Whether you're feeding family or friends, this bake is sure to bring smiles and satisfy appetites.
Save This casserole not only tastes delicious but also creates a cozy ambiance for any holiday morning. The combination of smoky paprika and garlic powder adds subtle warmth, while the melted cheddar topping delivers that irresistible golden crust. Plus, it pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or fresh fruit for a complete festive meal.
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 the hash browns are thoroughly thawed for even cooking. Browning the sausage well adds depth of flavor and prevents excess grease in the bake. Whisk the eggs and spices until fully combined for a smooth custard that binds the dish perfectly. Letting the bake rest for a few minutes after baking helps it set and makes slicing easier.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For a vegetarian version, omit the sausage or substitute with your favorite vegetarian sausage. You can add chopped spinach, mushrooms, or jalapeños for extra flavor and texture. Swap cheddar for other cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a different cheesy twist.
Serviervorschläge
Serve warm with a dollop of sour cream or salsa to cut through the richness. Pair it with fresh fruit, a green salad, or your favorite breakfast beverages for a complete festive meal that delights guests and family alike.
Save This Quick Christmas Morning Hash Brown Bake is a sure-fire way to bring warmth and festive joy to your holiday breakfast table with minimal fuss. Its savory-satisfying flavors, combined with easy prep and baking, make it a reliable recipe to revisit again and again for celebrations or cozy weekend brunches.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I use a vegetarian sausage alternative?
Yes, replacing pork or turkey sausage with a plant-based or vegetarian sausage works well without altering the texture significantly.
- → Is it possible to make the dish gluten-free?
Using gluten-free sausage and ensuring all other ingredients are free from gluten will make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive individuals.
- → What cheese works best for this bake?
Sharp cheddar cheese is ideal for its meltability and flavor, but mild cheddar or a cheese blend can also be used.
- → Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the bake the night before, cover, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving for best results.
- → What are good additions to enhance the flavor?
Try adding chopped spinach, mushrooms, or jalapeños for extra texture and depth of flavor.
- → How should leftovers be stored?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within 3 days. Reheat gently to preserve texture.