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Crispy Breakfast Potato Casserole Recipe with Sausage and Cheese Made Easy

crispy breakfast potato casserole - featured image

A simple, satisfying breakfast casserole featuring crispy russet potatoes, savory sausage, and a blend of cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Perfect for weekend mornings, potlucks, or any time you want a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 12 ounces breakfast sausage (mild or spicy)
  • 1 cup shredded sharp or extra-sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 cup whole or 2% milk (or dairy-free milk alternative)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
  2. Place diced russet potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil and cook for 5 minutes until potatoes start to get tender but are still firm. Drain and let cool slightly.
  3. Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Transfer sausage to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess fat.
  4. In the same skillet, add chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Remove from heat.
  5. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika until smooth.
  6. Add the parboiled potatoes, cooked sausage, sautéed onion and garlic, shredded cheddar, and mozzarella to the egg mixture. Gently fold everything together, keeping potato chunks intact.
  7. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading evenly. Optionally, sprinkle extra cheese on top.
  8. Bake for 35-40 minutes until the casserole puffs slightly and the top is golden brown with crispy edges. A knife inserted in the center should come out clean and potatoes fully tender.
  9. Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before slicing.
  10. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve warm.

Notes

Parboiling potatoes is key to achieving crispy edges without drying out the casserole. Drain sausage fat well to avoid greasiness. Use a mix of sharp cheddar and mozzarella for best flavor and melt. Tent with foil if edges brown too quickly. Let casserole rest before slicing for easier serving. Variations include vegetarian sausage alternatives, swapping potatoes for sweet potatoes or riced cauliflower for low-carb options, and different cheese or herb choices.

Nutrition

Keywords: breakfast casserole, crispy potatoes, sausage casserole, cheesy breakfast, easy breakfast recipe, brunch recipe, comfort food