Smoked Sausage and Hashbrown Casserole Recipe

If there’s one cozy crowd-pleaser that always steals the show at breakfast, brunch, or even dinner, it’s Smoked Sausage and Hashbrown Casserole. Picture golden hashbrowns, rich smoked sausage, oozy cheese, and a creamy sauce all baked to bubbly perfection — it’s pure comfort in a pan. This casserole checks every box: hearty, flavorful, incredibly easy, and guaranteed to have everyone coming back for seconds (or thirds). Whether you’re cooking for a holiday gathering or just need something deliciously unfussy for a busy weeknight, Smoked Sausage and Hashbrown Casserole somehow always fits the bill.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the beauties of this dish is just how easy it is to whip together from a handful of familiar ingredients. Each one plays its part, creating rich layers of flavor, texture, and that inviting golden color on top — absolutely nothing is wasted here.

• Smoked Sausage: Savory, smoky, and packed with flavor; choose your favorite brand or variety for a personal twist.
• Frozen Hashbrowns: They deliver the perfect starchy bite and make prep a breeze — no shredding potatoes required!
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Sharp or mild, this melty cheese gives classic richness and that irresistible gooey texture.
• Cream of Mushroom Soup: The backbone of the creamy sauce; it holds the casserole together and adds a subtle earthy note.
• Sour Cream: Adds a subtle tang and velvety finish to the sauce, cutting through the richness beautifully.
• Onion: Diced for a little crunch and sweetness; you can use yellow or white depending on your flavor preference.
• Butter: Melted and drizzled on top for a glossy, golden finish that’s simply irresistible.
• Salt and Pepper: Just a sprinkle of each to lift and balance all the other flavors in the casserole.

How to Make Smoked Sausage and Hashbrown Casserole

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready when you are. While the oven heats up, slice your smoked sausage into rounds, chop the onion finely, and get all your ingredients measured and ready. Having everything prepped up front makes assembling Smoked Sausage and Hashbrown Casserole a total breeze.

Step 2: Mix Up the Creamy Base

In a large bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, chopped onion, and half of your shredded cheddar. Give everything a good stir—you want it creamy and well blended. This is the flavor-packed base that transforms simple hashbrowns into something extra-special.

Step 3: Add Hashbrowns and Smoked Sausage

Now, gently fold in your frozen hashbrowns and sliced smoked sausage. Try not to break up the hashbrowns too much—you want plenty of texture. Season with salt and pepper, then carefully mix until every bite has bits of sausage and potato nestled in that creamy sauce.

Step 4: Transfer and Top

Spread the mixture evenly into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the rest of the cheddar cheese over the top, then drizzle that melted butter across the whole pan. This step sets up that delicious golden, bubbly finish that makes Smoked Sausage and Hashbrown Casserole so inviting.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Slide your casserole dish into the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the top is gorgeously golden. Let it cool for a few minutes after baking—this not only makes serving easier but really lets all the flavors shine.

How to Serve Smoked Sausage and Hashbrown Casserole

Garnishes

Brighten up each serving with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or green onions. The fresh pop of green contrasts beautifully with the hearty casserole and adds a delicious herbal aroma. A dash of hot sauce or a dollop of extra sour cream is also wonderful if you want a bolder finish.

Side Dishes

This casserole pairs perfectly with a simple green salad, steamed broccoli, or some fresh fruit to balance out its richness. For a full brunch spread, serve alongside scrambled eggs or fresh-baked buttermilk biscuits. The possibilities are endless, and everything seems to taste a bit better next to Smoked Sausage and Hashbrown Casserole.

Creative Ways to Present

For fun gatherings, use a muffin tin to bake the casserole into individual portions. This makes serving a breeze and looks adorable for potlucks or brunch buffets. You can also try layering in extra veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms for color and variety—just be sure to sauté them first to avoid extra moisture.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Smoked Sausage and Hashbrown Casserole keeps well in the fridge, tightly covered, for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen and mellow overnight, making it a fantastic choice for meal prep or next-day lunches.

Freezing

For longer storage, wrap individual servings or the whole casserole tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. The cheese and potatoes reheat surprisingly well and the sausage keeps its smoky character.

Reheating

To reheat, cover with foil and bake in a 350°F oven until hot throughout, about 20-30 minutes. For quick single servings, a short zap in the microwave works great—just cover the dish so it stays moist. If the casserole seems dry, a splash of milk before reheating brings it right back to life.

FAQs

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hashbrowns?

Absolutely! If you want to use fresh potatoes, simply peel and shred them, then squeeze out as much moisture as you can—this helps keep your Smoked Sausage and Hashbrown Casserole from becoming watery. You might need to add a bit more salt and bake slightly longer to ensure they’re tender.

Is it possible to make this casserole vegetarian?

Yes, you can! Swap out the smoked sausage for a plant-based sausage or smoked tofu, and use a vegetarian cream soup. The result is just as hearty and flavorful, with that same crave-worthy texture.

Can I add extra vegetables to this casserole?

Of course! Bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach are all fantastic add-ins. Just sauté them first to remove excess liquid and prevent your casserole from becoming too watery. It’s a great way to sneak extra veggies into Smoked Sausage and Hashbrown Casserole.

What type of cheese works best for this dish?

Sharp cheddar is the classic choice, but feel free to experiment with Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even smoked gouda for a twist. Any good melting cheese will work and can bring a new dimension to the flavor and the gooey factor.

Can I assemble Smoked Sausage and Hashbrown Casserole ahead of time?

Yes! Simply assemble everything up to the point of baking, cover tightly, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning or evening, pop it into the oven as directed. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it goes in cold.

Final Thoughts

Few recipes can rival the heartwarming comfort and sheer goodness of Smoked Sausage and Hashbrown Casserole. Whether you’re feeding a hungry crowd or just want to make your own weeknights a lot tastier, this dish is easy, flexible, and always a hit. Give it a try—you might just find it becomes your new go-to favorite for every occasion!

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