Save Start your holiday morning with a festive and comforting breakfast casserole that brings everyone to the table with ease and joy. The Quick Christmas Morning Hash Brown Bake combines crispy, golden hash browns with savory breakfast sausage, melted cheddar cheese, and a flavorful mix of red bell peppers and green onions. This easy-to-make dish bakes to a golden perfection, offering a warm, hearty start to your special day.
Save Whether you're gathering family for Christmas brunch or simply want a special weekend breakfast, this hash brown bake delivers comforting flavors, nourishing protein, and veggie goodness—all in one dish. With simple preparation and familiar ingredients, it’s a recipe that becomes an instant holiday classic.
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 to thoroughly thaw the hash browns to avoid excess moisture which can affect the bake's texture. Browning the sausage properly will enhance the savory taste and texture. Using smoked paprika adds a subtle smoky depth, but it’s optional depending on your preference.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For a vegetarian version, simply omit the sausage or swap it with a vegetarian sausage alternative. You can also boost the vegetable content by adding chopped spinach, mushrooms, or jalapeños for more flavor and color.
Serviervorschläge
Serve warm, accompanied by perfectly cooked eggs and fresh veggies to round out your festive spread. Adding a dollop of sour cream or salsa can brighten each bite and add a fresh contrast.
Save This Quick Christmas Morning Hash Brown Bake is guaranteed to become a staple for your holiday breakfasts—delivering hearty, comforting, and flavorful bites that bring a little extra cheer to your festive mornings.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, simply omit the breakfast sausage or substitute with a vegetarian alternative to keep the hearty texture and flavor.
- → How long should I bake the casserole?
Bake the mixture at 375°F (190°C) for 35-40 minutes until the center sets and the top is golden brown.
- → What type of cheese works best?
Shredded cheddar cheese provides a sharp, melty finish, but you can also use a blend like mozzarella or Monterey Jack for variation.
- → Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, assemble it a few hours in advance and refrigerate. Bake just before serving for optimal freshness and texture.
- → Is it possible to add vegetables?
Absolutely! Diced bell peppers, green onions, spinach, mushrooms, or jalapeños add extra flavor and texture.