Last Updated on January 28, 2026 by recipeinspire

How to Make a Classic Breakfast Hashbrown Casserole: 5 Simple Steps

Are you searching for the ultimate comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction to your breakfast table? How often do you find yourself craving that delightful blend of crispy hashbrowns, melted cheese, and savory goodness? If so, you’re in for a treat! Today, we will show you how to master the art of the Classic Breakfast Hashbrown Casserole in just five simple steps. Elevate your brunch game and learn the secrets of this crowd-pleasing dish!

Ingredients List

To create this comforting casserole, gather the following ingredients:

• Frozen hashbrowns (30 oz) – The star of our dish! You can substitute with shredded or diced potatoes if preferred.
• Shredded cheddar cheese (2 cups) – A blend of sharp and mild adds great flavor.
• Cream of mushroom soup (10.5 oz) – Use cream of chicken soup for a different flavor twist or opt for a gluten-free version.
• Sour cream (1 cup) – Greek yogurt can be a healthier substitute.
• Chopped onions (1 cup) – Sweet onions bring a lovely sweetness, but feel free to substitute with scallions for a milder taste.
• Cooked breakfast sausage (1 lb) – Turkey sausage is a leaner alternative.
• Salt and black pepper (to taste) – Season to your liking.
• Olive oil (for greasing) – You can use cooking spray if desired.

Timing

Preparation for the Classic Breakfast Hashbrown Casserole takes approximately 20 minutes, while cooking requires about 50 minutes. In total, you’ll spend about 70 minutes creating this mouthwatering delight—20% less time than many traditional casseroles! The result? A wonderful warm dish that’s perfect for family gatherings or a lazy Sunday morning.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is crucial to achieve that perfectly baked casserole texture—don’t skip this step!

Step 2: Prepare the Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine your frozen hashbrowns, chopped onions, cooked sausage, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and 1.5 cups of cheddar cheese. Season with salt and pepper and blend well! This step allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 3: Transfer to Baking Dish

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking. Pour the mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly. This ensures every bite is equally delicious, with the gooey cheese melting throughout!

Step 4: Add Cheese Topping

Sprinkle the remaining 0.5 cup of cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole. This will create a delightful cheesy crust that everyone loves.

Step 5: Bake

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbling. Let the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving to enhance the flavor and make serving easier!

Nutritional Information

One serving of Classic Breakfast Hashbrown Casserole contains approximately:

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 18g
• Total Fat: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sodium: 780mg

Keep in mind that the nutritional content may vary based on ingredient substitutions.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

You can lighten this dish without sacrificing taste! Here are some ideas:

• Use egg whites instead of whole eggs to cut down on cholesterol.
• Reduce or skip the cheese and add more vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to enhance nutrition.
• Substitute low-fat or plant-based sour cream for a lighter touch.

These swaps help maintain the casserole’s signature comfort while making it a little healthier!

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Classic Breakfast Hashbrown Casserole with fresh fruit, avocado slices, or a light green salad for a refreshing balance. Don’t forget some sizzling crispy bacon or turkey sausage on the side—an excellent protein boost to accompany this hearty dish!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcooking the casserole: Keep an eye on the baking time; too much can lead to a dry dish.
2. Forgetting to grease the pan: Prevent sticking by ensuring your dish is adequately greased!
3. Rushing the cooling period: Let the casserole rest for at least five minutes before serving. This makes it easier to cut and helps the flavors settle.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

If you have any leftovers (which is unlikely because it’s so delicious!), allow the casserole to cool to room temperature and store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge. For longer storage, freeze the casserole for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then bake until warmed through.

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Conclusion

The Classic Breakfast Hashbrown Casserole is a simple yet satisfying dish that brings together flavors everyone will love. From sourcing the ingredients to enjoying the final product, we’ve simplified each step for you. We invite you to try this recipe for your next brunch gathering and share your thoughts with us. What modifications did you make?

FAQs

Q1: Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble it the night before and refrigerate it. Just allow extra baking time.

Q2: Is this suitable for vegetarians?
Absolutely! Simply omit the sausage and add more vegetables for a delicious vegetarian version.

Q3: Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen?
Yes, just peel and shred your potatoes! You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly.

Embrace the ease and comfort of this Classic Breakfast Hashbrown Casserole, and happy cooking!