Prep time: 15 mins | Cook time: 45 mins | Servings: 8-10
Ingredients
1 lb ground Italian sausage or breakfast sausage
1 red bell pepper, finely diced
1 small yellow onion, diced
6 cups frozen hash browns or tater tots (thawed)
2 cups shredded cheddar jack or mozzarella cheese (divided)
8 large eggs
1/2 cup milk or heavy cream
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Prep the Oven & Pan: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or large disposable foil pan with non-stick spray.
2. Brown the Meat & Veggies: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground sausage, breaking it up into crumbles, for 5-6 minutes. Add the diced red bell pepper and onion, and cook for another 3-4 minutes until softened and the sausage is fully cooked. Drain off excess grease.
3. Layer the Base: Spread the hash browns (or tater tots) evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking pan. Layer the cooked sausage and pepper mixture over the hash browns, then sprinkle 1 cup of the shredded cheese on top.
4. Mix & Pour Egg Custard: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk (or heavy cream), garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until well combined. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the casserole layers.
5. Add Cheese & Bake: Top with the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheese. Bake uncovered for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the eggs are set in the center and the cheese on top is bubbly and golden brown.
6. Garnish & Serve: Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley, let cool for 10 minutes to allow it to set, then slice and serve warm.