This Cheesy Sausage Hash Brown Bake is the ultimate breakfast or brunch comfort dish — hearty, creamy, and loaded with crispy hash browns, savory sausage, and layers of melted cheese. Every bite delivers that satisfying combination of smoky, cheesy flavor with just the right balance of crunch and creaminess. It’s the kind of dish that makes mornings special, yet it’s easy enough to throw together even on a busy weekday. Whether you’re hosting brunch, prepping meals for the week, or just craving something indulgent, this casserole hits the spot. It’s a one-pan meal that’s as delicious fresh out of the oven as it is reheated the next day, making it a perfect choice for families, potlucks, and holiday mornings.
Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Sausage Hash Brown Bake
You’ll love this recipe because it transforms simple ingredients into a warm, satisfying meal that’s impossible to resist. The combination of browned sausage, golden hash browns, and creamy sauce gives it a rich flavor that’s both familiar and comforting. Baking everything together allows the edges to crisp while the inside stays soft and cheesy, creating the perfect texture contrast. It’s also extremely versatile — you can make it ahead, freeze it for later, or serve it straight from the oven when guests arrive. Plus, the recipe can easily be doubled to feed a crowd, making it a reliable favorite for gatherings or weekend breakfasts.
Why You Should Try This Recipe
If you enjoy cozy casseroles that taste like home, this one deserves a place in your rotation. It’s budget-friendly, uses easy-to-find ingredients, and comes together with minimal effort. The sausage adds depth and flavor, the creamy mixture keeps it moist and luscious, and the cheese ties everything together into a bubbly, golden masterpiece. It’s ideal for breakfast but just as good for dinner, and it reheats perfectly, so you can enjoy leftovers throughout the week. Once you try it, it’ll quickly become your go-to recipe for feeding hungry guests or treating yourself to something warm and delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
1 lb (450 g) breakfast sausage (pork or turkey), 1 bag (30 oz) frozen shredded hash browns (thawed), 1 small onion (chopped), 1 bell pepper (chopped, optional), 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup, 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup, 1 cup sour cream, 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided), ½ cup milk, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon onion powder, ½ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon black pepper, and ½ teaspoon paprika or smoked paprika (optional).
How to Make Cheesy Sausage Hash Brown Bake (Step-by-Step)
- Step 1 – Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray and set aside.
- Step 2 – Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage until browned and crumbly. If using onion or bell pepper, add them to the skillet and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Drain off any excess grease.
- Step 3 – Mix the Creamy Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and fully blended. This creates the creamy binder that keeps the casserole rich and flavorful.
- Step 4 – Add Hash Browns and Sausage: Add the thawed hash browns to the creamy base and stir gently to coat. Fold in the cooked sausage mixture and 1½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese, mixing just until everything is evenly distributed.
- Step 5 – Assemble the Casserole: Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top and dust lightly with paprika for extra color and a touch of smokiness.
- Step 6 – Bake Until Golden: Bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes or until the casserole is bubbling and the top is golden brown. For a crisper top, broil for the last 2–3 minutes while keeping a close eye on it.
- Step 7 – Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and let rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions and serve warm.
Tips for the Best Cheesy Sausage Hash Brown Bake
Use thawed hash browns for even cooking and better texture. Drain sausage thoroughly to avoid excess grease. Combine the creamy base well so every bite is coated evenly. Use freshly grated cheese for the best melt. Add bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for extra flavor and color. Bake uncovered for a crisp, golden topping. Rest the casserole before serving to help it set. Mix cheeses — cheddar and Monterey Jack work beautifully. Add a little hot sauce to the mixture for a spicy kick. Make it ahead and refrigerate overnight for even richer flavor.
Variations & Substitutions
- Breakfast Casserole: Add scrambled eggs to the mix for extra protein.
- Loaded Hash Brown Bake: Add bacon bits, green onions, and more cheese.
- Spicy Version: Use hot sausage or add diced jalapeños.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace sausage with sautéed mushrooms and spinach.
- Lighter Version: Use turkey sausage, light sour cream, and reduced-fat cheese.
- Tex-Mex Twist: Mix in black beans, corn, and a little taco seasoning.
- Cheese Lover’s Bake: Combine cheddar, mozzarella, and pepper jack.
- Crunchy Topping: Sprinkle crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs before baking.
- BBQ Style: Add a spoonful of barbecue sauce to the sausage for a smoky flavor.
- Mini Bakes: Divide into muffin tins for individual breakfast portions.
What to Serve With Cheesy Sausage Hash Brown Bake
This hearty dish pairs beautifully with lighter sides that balance its richness. Serve it with a fresh fruit salad, mixed greens, or a simple coleslaw. For brunch, add scrambled eggs, toast, or biscuits to make it a full spread. If serving for dinner, complement it with roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad. A drizzle of hot sauce or ketchup adds an extra layer of flavor that ties everything together.
Storage & Reheating Tips
- To Store: Allow the casserole to cool completely, then cover with foil or transfer to airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to 4 days.
- To Freeze: Cut into portions and wrap individually, or store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- To Reheat: Warm individual servings in the microwave for 1–2 minutes or reheat the entire casserole in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 20 minutes, covered with foil to keep it moist.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns? Yes, just shred them and remove excess moisture before adding.
- Can I make this ahead of time? Definitely — assemble and refrigerate overnight, then bake when ready.
- Can I use different sausage types? Yes, turkey, chicken, or spicy Italian sausage all work well.
- Can I replace the soups? Substitute with homemade cream sauce made from butter, flour, and milk.
- Can I add eggs for breakfast? Yes, whisk 4–6 eggs into the mixture for a richer, breakfast-style casserole.
- Can I make it vegetarian? Omit sausage and add extra veggies or meatless crumbles.
- Can I double the recipe? Yes, use two pans or a larger dish — ideal for holidays.
- Can I make it gluten-free? Use gluten-free soups or homemade sauce alternatives.
- Can I use different cheeses? Absolutely — Swiss, mozzarella, or pepper jack all melt beautifully.
- How long do leftovers last? Up to 4 days in the fridge or 2 months in the freezer.