This hearty breakfast dish is perfect for busy mornings when you want something delicious and ready to go. Packed with eggs, cheese, veggies, and sausage, it’s a comforting way to start your day with minimal effort.
Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s nicely browned and crumbly—this usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes. Once done, take it off the heat and let it cool for a few minutes. Then, transfer the sausage to a big bowl.
Next, add the hash browns, ham, Monterey Jack cheese, dry mustard, and onion powder to the sausage. Give everything a good mix so it’s all combined. Spread this mixture loosely into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, evaporated milk, half-and-half, salt, and pepper until smooth. Pour this evenly over the hash brown and sausage mixture. Cover the dish tightly with foil and pop it in the fridge for at least 8 hours, or overnight.
When you’re ready to bake, take the dish out of the fridge about 30 minutes beforehand to let it come closer to room temperature. Sprinkle the Cheddar cheese on top and cover it again.
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Bake the casserole covered for 45 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for another 15 to 20 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Let it sit for about 10 minutes before slicing and serving—it helps everything set up nicely.
- Use day-old bread for better texture and to soak up the custard mixture well.
- Let the casserole sit for at least 30 minutes before baking to allow the flavors to meld.
- If you want a lighter version, swap sausage for turkey sausage or add more veggies.
This dish brings together all the best breakfast flavors in one easy-to-make meal. It’s perfect for busy mornings because you prepare it the night before and just bake it in the morning. The combination of eggs, cheese, sausage, and veggies makes it hearty and satisfying.
Serve warm with a side of fresh fruit or a simple green salad to balance the richness. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like chives or parsley adds a nice fresh touch.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through. This dish can also be frozen; thaw overnight before reheating.
