Hissy Fit Hash Brown Casserole

Hissy Fit Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole is the very definition of comfort food that also happens to feed a crowd easily. Every time I make this, the room fills with the scent of sizzling sausage and bubbling cheese, and I know I am about to make someone’s morning. This casserole captures the best parts of a party dip in breakfast form with layers of creamy hash browns, spiced sausage, and two kinds of melted cheese all tied together with soft eggs. It is honestly the dish I turn to when I need hearty food with almost no fuss.

I made this one Christmas morning when we had way too many people visiting and it has been on steady repeat since. My family literally requests this every time someone claims they are “starving” on a chilly weekend.

Ingredients

• Hot breakfast sausage: brings necessary spice and heartiness Try to get a sausage with some fat for flavor
• Frozen shredded hash browns: add creaminess and body Thaw before using for even cooking
• Salt and pepper: bring out the best in each ingredient Choose kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper if possible
• Garlic powder and onion powder: offer savory depth Always check your spices for freshness
• Shredded muenster cheese: creates a gooey melt and mellow flavor Go for a fresh block and shred it yourself for best texture
• Shredded Velveeta cheese: lends creaminess and classic comfort Shred it cold so it does not clump
• Large eggs: bind everything together and make the casserole rich Use the freshest eggs you can get
• Milk: adds softness to the eggs and a custard effect Whole milk tastes richest in this casserole
• Worcestershire sauce: adds a subtle tang and umami flavor Always shake the bottle before measuring

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Oven and Pan:

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F and lightly coat a nine by thirteen inch baking dish with nonstick spray so nothing sticks later

Brown the Sausage:

Cook your sausage in a large skillet over medium heat breaking it up into crumbles Continue stirring until all the pink disappears and the fat renders off Drain away any excess fat and set the cooked sausage aside This step is what brings flavor to the whole casserole

Brown the Hash Browns:

Add the thawed hash browns right into the same skillet and cook gently over medium heat Stir often and let them take on a light golden color If you need a touch of oil to prevent sticking add it here Spread these evenly in the base of your prepared pan

Layer and Top:

Scatter the cooked sausage over the hash browns Distribute both cheeses evenly on top so every bite gets melty goodness

Mix and Pour Custard:

Crack all your eggs into a mixing bowl and beat well with salt pepper garlic powder onion powder milk and Worcestershire Pour this egg mixture slowly over the casserole letting it fill all the little nooks

Bake to Perfection:

Slide the dish uncovered into the oven Bake for forty five to sixty minutes until the center barely jiggles and the top is golden Let it rest at least five minutes before slicing and serving

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I get obsessed with the blend of muenster and Velveeta in this casserole You get the stretch from muenster and real diner comfort from that creamy Velveeta It is amazing how both cheeses work together

Storage Tips

This casserole keeps fresh in the fridge for up to three days Just let it cool then cover the dish tightly or transfer slices to an airtight container If you want to freeze make sure the casserole is fully cooled before wrapping it well in plastic and foil and freezing for up to three months Let it thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating

Ingredient Substitutions

Do not worry if you do not have hot sausage Any breakfast sausage or even turkey sausage will do nicely Velveeta can be switched for shredded cheddar Monterey jack or gouda If you want extra veggies add sauteed peppers mushrooms or onions right before baking

Serving Suggestions

This casserole is lovely on its own but I love adding dollops of sour cream fresh chives or a side of fruit salad For a brunch feast serve it alongside a simple green salad or a big bowl of citrus slices The leftovers reheat beautifully for a quick meal any time of the day

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Cultural and Historical Context

Hash brown casseroles like this are true staples in Southern kitchens especially when a big group is expected It is one of those dishes that shows up at holiday breakfasts church potlucks and family reunions My family always requested it for Christmas morning but I know many who bake it every Sunday

Recipe FAQs

→ Can this casserole be assembled ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead and refrigerate overnight. Just add a few extra minutes to baking if chilled.

→ Is freezing an option for this dish?

Absolutely. Assemble, cover well, and freeze for up to three months. Thaw thoroughly before baking as usual.

→ What cheese varieties can I use?

Velveeta and muenster are suggested, but cheddar, colby-jack, gouda, or Monterey jack are great alternatives.

→ Can I use turkey sausage instead of pork?

Certainly! Turkey sausage is a suitable substitute and lowers the calorie count without sacrificing flavor.

→ Do I need to thaw hash browns first?

Yes, thaw frozen hash browns before browning in the skillet to ensure even cooking and optimal texture.

→ Are additional vegetables optional?

Yes, you can add bell pepper, mushrooms, or onions to suit your taste and add extra color or nutrition.