Name: Fully Loaded Cheesy Breakfast Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb breakfast sausage; 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled; 4 cups frozen hash browns or diced potatoes, thawed; 8 large eggs; 1 cup milk; 2½ cups shredded cheddar or Colby-Jack cheese; ½ cup chopped green onions; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; Cooking spray or butter for greasing

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If you are craving a breakfast that hits every note from hearty and savory to cheesy and comforting, this Fully Loaded Cheesy Breakfast Casserole Recipe is going to become your new weekend obsession. Imagine crispy potatoes, perfectly browned sausage, crispy bacon, fluffy eggs, and a blanket of melted cheddar cheese baked together to golden perfection. It’s not just a meal; it’s a full-on breakfast experience crafted to satisfy a crowd or to make your busy mornings unbelievably easy and delicious. Let me walk you through making this ultimate breakfast treat that tastes like a warm hug first thing in the morning.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl filled with a creamy white mixture, topped with six bright yellow egg yolks evenly spaced around the surface. In the middle of the bowl, there is a sprinkle of black pepper and light brown seasoning. Behind the bowl on a light wooden table, there are four smaller white bowls with chopped vegetables: red, green, yellow, and white onion. A metal whisk rests on the left side of the table, and a woman's hand is touching the glass bowl. The background surface is a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Every ingredient in this Fully Loaded Cheesy Breakfast Casserole Recipe plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture that will have you going back for seconds. From the savory sausage to the sharp cheddar cheese, these simple staples come together beautifully without any fuss.

1 lb breakfast sausage: Adds a rich and savory punch with just the right amount of seasoning.
6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled: Brings crispy texture and smoky depth that complements the other proteins.
4 cups frozen hash browns or diced potatoes, thawed: Provides a crispy, tender base that soaks up the flavors perfectly.
8 large eggs: The binding agent that creates the fluffy, custardy texture inside the casserole.
1 cup milk: Keeps the egg mixture creamy and tender, balancing out the richness.
2½ cups shredded cheddar or Colby-Jack cheese: Loads the dish with gooey, melty cheesiness that’s simply irresistible.
½ cup chopped green onions: Adds a fresh, mildly sharp bite and a pop of color.
½ teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall flavors without overpowering.
½ teaspoon black pepper: Gives just a touch of warmth and kick.
½ teaspoon garlic powder: Adds subtle depth and a hint of aromatic richness.
Cooking spray or butter for greasing: Prevents sticking and helps create a golden crust on the bottom.

How to Make Fully Loaded Cheesy Breakfast Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Sausage and Bacon

Start by cooking the breakfast sausage in a skillet over medium heat until it’s nicely browned and cooked through. Drain any excess grease to keep the casserole from becoming too greasy. Meanwhile, cook the bacon until crispy, then crumble it into bite-sized pieces. This combination of meats lays the foundation for that iconic breakfast flavor.

Step 2: Arrange the Potatoes

Spread the thawed hash browns or diced potatoes evenly across the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. These potatoes will crisp up during baking, providing the satisfying texture you want in every bite.

Step 3: Layer the Meats and Cheese

Scatter the cooked sausage evenly over the potatoes, then sprinkle the crumbled bacon on top. Add half of the shredded cheese to create a luscious, melty middle layer that’s stuffed with flavor.

Step 4: Mix and Pour the Egg Mixture

Whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and garlic powder in a large bowl until well combined. Pour this mixture gently over the layered casserole ingredients, ensuring the eggs soak into every crevice. This step guarantees the casserole will set beautifully with that tender, fluffy custard texture.

Step 5: Add the Final Touches and Bake

Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese on top, then add the chopped green onions for a fresh, bright finish. Bake the casserole uncovered at 375°F (190°C) for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the eggs are fully set and the cheese is golden and bubbly. Let the casserole rest for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing to hold its shape and to make serving easier.

How to Serve Fully Loaded Cheesy Breakfast Casserole Recipe

Fully Loaded Cheesy Breakfast Casserole Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

Adding simple garnishes like extra chopped green onions or a dollop of sour cream can take this casserole to the next level. Fresh herbs like parsley or chives also brighten the dish and add a pop of color that’s inviting on the plate.

Side Dishes

This dish shines on its own but pairs beautifully with fresh fruit salad, crispy toast, or even a light mixed green salad to balance the richness. For a low-key brunch, serve it alongside fresh orange juice or a hot cup of coffee for the perfect start.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the casserole in individual ramekins for a charming, personalized touch. It’s also fantastic layered in a clear glass casserole or trifle dish to show off the colorful beans of potatoes, meats, and layered cheese. Feel free to sprinkle extra cheese on top right before serving for a gooey, decadent finish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld even more overnight, making for quick and delicious breakfasts during the week.

Freezing

This Fully Loaded Cheesy Breakfast Casserole Recipe freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and foil before freezing. It will keep well for up to 2 months and makes for an easy morning by just popping it in the oven after thawing.

Reheating

Reheat slices in the microwave for about 1 to 2 minutes or warm the whole casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Adding a little extra cheese on top before reheating melts perfectly to refresh the dish.

FAQs

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?

Absolutely! If using fresh potatoes, dice them small and parboil for a few minutes before adding to the casserole to ensure they cook through during baking.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, using typical breakfast sausage and frozen hash browns without additives makes this dish gluten-free. Always check labels to be sure your ingredients are gluten-free certified.

Can I substitute the meats?

Definitely! Feel free to swap sausage or bacon with ham, turkey sausage, or even skip the meat for a vegetarian-friendly version loaded with veggies.

How far in advance can I assemble this casserole?

You can assemble the casserole the night before and refrigerate it overnight. When ready to bake, bring it to room temperature for 15 minutes then proceed with baking.

What cheese works best for this casserole?

Cheddar and Colby-Jack are classic for their flavor and melting qualities, but feel free to experiment with mozzarella or pepper jack for a different twist and extra creaminess.

Final Thoughts

This Fully Loaded Cheesy Breakfast Casserole Recipe is pure breakfast magic that brings together all the flavors and textures you love in one go. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or prepping ahead for busy mornings, this dish never disappoints. I can’t wait for you to try it and create some delicious breakfast memories!