Instructions
1. Preheat & Prep
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Cook the Sausage
Cook sausage in a skillet over medium heat until browned, breaking it up. Set aside; drain excess grease.
3. Sauté Vegetables
Sauté onion and bell pepper (if using) in the same skillet for 4-5 minutes until softened. Set aside with sausage.
4. Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine hash browns, cooked sausage, sautéed vegetables, 1 1/2 cups cheddar cheese, mozzarella, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
5. Assemble the Casserole
Pour mixture into prepared dish, spreading evenly. Sprinkle remaining cheddar cheese on top. Drizzle with melted butter.
6. Bake
Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly. Cool 5 minutes before serving.
7. Garnish & Serve
Garnish with parsley (optional). Serve warm!
Cooking Notes
- Sausage: Use your favorite type! Adjust seasoning accordingly.
- Hash Browns: Shredded or diced work well.
- Cream of Soup: Substitute with cream of chicken or celery soup.
- Cheese: Experiment with other cheeses!
Variations
- Spicy: Use spicy sausage and add red pepper flakes.
- Vegetarian: Omit sausage; add extra veggies or vegetarian sausage.
- Mexican: Add green chilies, cream of chicken soup, pepper jack cheese, and top with salsa and sour cream.
- Bacon & Sausage: Add crumbled cooked bacon.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this ahead?
Yes! Assemble the night before, cover, and refrigerate. Add 5-10 minutes to baking time.
Can I freeze it?
Yes! Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Thaw overnight and bake; may need extra time.
How to store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven.
Can I use fresh potatoes?
Yes! Grate or dice, rinse to remove excess starch, and dry thoroughly before using.
What to serve with it?
Enjoy with scrambled eggs, a salad, or roasted vegetables.
Enjoy this cheesy, comforting casserole!