Breakfast For A Crowd
A hearty breakfast casserole perfect for feeding a crowd, combining crispy hash browns, savory sausage, melted cheddar, and fresh green onions. Baked to perfection, it's ideal for brunch gatherings, family breakfasts, or weekend celebrations, offering warm, cheesy comfort in every bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place the thawed hash browns in a greased baking dish to form an even layer.
- Layer the cooked and crumbled hot sausage over the hash browns.
- Sprinkle grated Cheddar cheese over the sausage layer.
- Chop green onions and sprinkle them on top of the cheese.
- Pour milk evenly over the layered ingredients.
- Beat the 12 eggs until well combined and pour over the entire mixture.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 50 minutes until set and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a vegetarian option, substitute the hot sausage with sautéed mushrooms or a meat alternative. You can also mix in other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for added flavor and nutrition. If you prefer a spicier dish, consider adding jalapeños or using pepper jack cheese instead of Cheddar. Make sure to drain excess moisture from the hash browns to prevent a soggy casserole.
Serving Suggestions
This Breakfast For A Crowd pairs beautifully with fresh fruit or a light salad for a balanced meal. Consider serving it alongside toast or muffins for a heartier breakfast spread. For a beverage, offer coffee, tea, or fresh juice to complete the experience. This dish is perfect for brunch gatherings or holiday mornings.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or warm the entire dish in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes until heated through. This helps maintain the texture and flavor of the casserole.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Breakfast For A Crowd contains roughly 1118 calories, with 35g protein, 123g carbohydrates, and 55g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (164% of the Daily Value), calcium (84% of the Daily Value), and protein (71% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1306mg per serving (57% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole the night before and refrigerate it before baking. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if it's coming straight from the fridge. This makes it a convenient option for busy mornings or entertaining guests.
What can I use instead of hash browns?
If you don't have hash browns, shredded potatoes or even cooked quinoa can work as a base. Alternatively, you can use a mixture of diced bread for a breakfast strata version, creating a different texture and flavor profile while still being delicious.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this Breakfast For A Crowd gluten-free, ensure that the hash browns and sausage are certified gluten-free. You can also use gluten-free bread if opting for a strata-style version. Always double-check labels on all packaged ingredients to avoid cross-contamination.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).