Why Make This Recipe
The Ultimate Overnight Breakfast Casserole is perfect for busy mornings or lazy weekends. This dish combines all your breakfast favorites in one easy-to-make casserole. You can prepare it the night before, allowing flavors to meld together while you sleep. In the morning, all you have to do is bake it, making it a stress-free way to serve a hearty breakfast to family or friends.
How to Make The Ultimate Overnight Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients
- 1 pound breakfast sausage
- 1 package frozen hash browns (about 30 oz)
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
Directions
- Cook the sausage in a skillet over medium heat until browned. Set aside to cool.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, sour cream, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Grease a 9×13 baking dish and layer half of the hash browns, half the sausage, and a layer of cheese.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining hash browns, sausage, and cheese.
- Pour the egg mixture evenly over the top of the layered ingredients.
- Cover with foil and refrigerate overnight.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F in the morning and bake the casserole, covered, for 45 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake an additional 20–25 minutes until golden and fully set.
- Top with chopped green onions and serve warm.
How to Serve The Ultimate Overnight Breakfast Casserole
Serve the casserole warm right out of the oven. It pairs well with fresh fruit, coffee, or juice. You can also add more toppings like avocado, salsa, or hot sauce for extra flavor.
How to Store The Ultimate Overnight Breakfast Casserole
If you have leftovers, store the casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze individual portions for an easy breakfast later. Just make sure to reheat it thoroughly before serving.
Tips to Make The Ultimate Overnight Breakfast Casserole
- Use your favorite type of breakfast sausage, like turkey or spicy sausage, to match your taste.
- Add veggies like bell peppers or spinach for a healthier twist.
- For a creamier texture, use a mix of cheeses, such as mozzarella or pepper jack.
- If you like a crispy top, bake it uncovered for the last few minutes.
Variation
You can customize this casserole by adding diced tomatoes or mushrooms. If you prefer a meatless version, simply skip the sausage and load up on more veggies or use plant-based sausage.
FAQs
Can I prepare this casserole without sausage?
Yes! You can make it vegetarian by omitting the sausage and adding extra vegetables.
How can I reheat leftovers?
To reheat, pop the casserole in the microwave or the oven at 350°F until heated through.
Can I freeze The Ultimate Overnight Breakfast Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze it before baking. Just make sure to cover it well. When you’re ready to bake, thaw it in the fridge overnight and then bake as directed.
Ultimate Overnight Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients
Casserole Base
- 1 pound breakfast sausage Use your favorite type of breakfast sausage.
- 30 oz frozen hash browns Approximately 1 package.
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup sour cream For a creamier texture, consider other dairy options.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese Feel free to mix different types of cheese.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions For garnish before serving.
Instructions
Preparation
- Cook the sausage in a skillet over medium heat until browned. Set aside to cool.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, sour cream, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Layering
- Grease a 9x13 baking dish and layer half of the hash browns, half the sausage, and a layer of cheese.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining hash browns, sausage, and cheese.
- Pour the egg mixture evenly over the top of the layered ingredients.
Refrigeration and Baking
- Cover with foil and refrigerate overnight.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F in the morning and bake the casserole, covered, for 45 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake an additional 20–25 minutes until golden and fully set.
- Top with chopped green onions and serve warm.