Loaded Hashbrown Casserole is a hearty breakfast dish packed with flavor and perfect for brunch or meal prep. With turkey sausage, vegetables, and cheesy layers, this creamy casserole is comforting and satisfying. Easy to customize and make ahead, it’s ideal for feeding a crowd.

Ingredients:

12 turkey sausage links, diced
1 small white onion, diced
½ red bell pepper, diced
½ orange bell pepper, diced
5 eggs
1¼ cup egg whites
1 cup cottage cheese
½ cup skim milk
1 lb frozen diced hash brown potatoes (½ bag)
½ tbsp olive oil
½ tsp paprika
½ tsp onion powder
1 tbsp green goddess seasoning
Salt and pepper, to taste
¾ cup pepper jack cheese, shredded
1 tbsp green onions, diced (for garnish)
Non-stick cooking spray

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 350°F.
Dice the onion, bell peppers, and turkey sausage into small pieces.
In a blender, combine eggs, egg whites, cottage cheese, skim milk, and green goddess seasoning. Blend until smooth.
Heat a skillet over medium heat and spray with non-stick cooking spray. Sauté the onion, sausage, and bell peppers for 5-7 minutes until soft.
Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray. Spread the frozen hash browns evenly in the dish, drizzle with olive oil, and season with paprika and onion powder. Toss to coat.
Layer the sautéed sausage and vegetable mixture over the hash browns.
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the top and gently stir to combine.
Sprinkle the shredded pepper jack cheese evenly over the casserole.
Bake for 40-45 minutes until the eggs are fully cooked and the cheese is golden brown.
Garnish with green onions and serve warm.

Nutrients (Per Serving):

Calories: 249
Carbohydrates: 18g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 11g
Fiber: 3g
Sodium: 836mg
Potassium: 310mg
Sugar: 3g

Enjoy this flavorful, protein-packed breakfast casserole that’s easy to make and perfect for sharing!

Loaded Hashbrown Casserole: A Flavorful and Versatile Breakfast Delight

Breakfast is often considered the most important meal of the day, and for good reason. Starting your morning with a meal that is both nourishing and delicious can set the tone for the rest of the day. One dish that perfectly fits this description is the Loaded Hashbrown Casserole. Packed with protein, vegetables, and a cheesy, creamy texture, this dish is not only satisfying but also versatile enough to fit into any brunch spread or meal prep routine.

In this article, we’ll explore the features that make this dish unique, why it’s a crowd-pleaser, and how it can be customized to suit various dietary needs and preferences. We’ll also discuss its role in meal prep, the nutritional benefits, and how it can elevate your weekend brunch or weekday breakfasts.

A One-Pan Wonder for Busy Mornings

The Loaded Hashbrown Casserole is a dish that combines convenience and flavor. Designed to be assembled in one pan and baked in the oven, it requires minimal hands-on time, making it ideal for busy mornings. Whether you’re preparing breakfast for your family or hosting a brunch gathering, this casserole allows you to focus on other tasks while it bakes to perfection.

The foundation of this dish is frozen diced hashbrown potatoes, which bring a hearty texture and comforting flavor. By pairing them with eggs, turkey sausage, colorful vegetables, and a generous layer of melted pepper jack cheese, you create a balanced breakfast that’s both indulgent and nutritious.

The Perfect Brunch Dish

Brunch has become a cultural staple for gatherings with friends and family, and a dish like this Loaded Hashbrown Casserole is a perfect fit. Its vibrant presentation, thanks to the colorful bell peppers and golden melted cheese, makes it a showstopper on any table. Plus, it’s easy to portion and serve, allowing guests to help themselves while you enjoy the company.

Pair this casserole with a side of fresh fruit, a green salad, or even some crusty bread for a complete and satisfying meal. If you’re hosting a brunch with a variety of dietary preferences, the recipe is easily adaptable. For example, you can substitute the turkey sausage for a vegetarian alternative, such as plant-based sausage crumbles, or swap the pepper jack cheese for a milder or non-dairy option.

Customizable for Every Palate

One of the best aspects of the Loaded Hashbrown Casserole is how customizable it is. While the base recipe includes turkey sausage, eggs, and hashbrowns, there’s plenty of room to get creative and tailor the dish to your taste. Here are a few ideas to switch things up:

Add More Vegetables: Amp up the nutritional value by incorporating spinach, zucchini, mushrooms, or broccoli. These vegetables blend seamlessly into the casserole while adding fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
Switch Up the Protein: Not a fan of turkey sausage? Opt for chicken sausage, bacon, or even diced ham. Vegetarians can use tofu or tempeh crumbles for a plant-based protein boost.
Try Different Cheeses: While pepper jack cheese adds a mild kick, you can experiment with cheddar, mozzarella, gouda, or a dairy-free alternative for those with dietary restrictions.
Spice It Up: Add a touch of heat with diced jalapeños, a sprinkle of cayenne pepper, or your favorite hot sauce.

A Meal Prep Marvel

For those who like to plan ahead, this casserole is a meal prep superstar. You can assemble it the night before, store it in the refrigerator, and bake it fresh in the morning. Alternatively, you can bake it in advance, portion it into individual servings, and reheat as needed throughout the week. This makes it an excellent choice for those with hectic schedules who want a nutritious breakfast ready in minutes.

The dish also freezes well. Simply bake, cool, and cut it into portions before storing in airtight containers. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat it in the oven or microwave for a warm, homemade meal.

Nutritional Benefits

Despite its indulgent flavors, this casserole is surprisingly balanced in terms of nutrition. The combination of protein-rich turkey sausage, eggs, and cottage cheese makes it a great source of muscle-building protein, while the addition of vegetables and hashbrowns provides carbohydrates, fiber, and essential vitamins.

Each serving contains approximately 249 calories, making it a filling yet moderate choice for breakfast. With only 18 grams of carbohydrates and 11 grams of fat, it aligns well with low-carb or moderate-fat dietary goals. The inclusion of egg whites and skim milk keeps the dish light without compromising on creaminess or flavor.

For those monitoring their sodium intake, you can reduce the amount of added salt or opt for low-sodium versions of the sausage and cheese. The dish also provides a good dose of potassium, which helps support heart health and muscle function.

A Dish for All Occasions

Loaded Hashbrown Casserole isn’t just limited to breakfast. Its hearty composition and crowd-pleasing flavors make it suitable for other occasions, such as potlucks, holiday brunches, or even dinner. Pair it with a side salad and a warm soup for a comforting evening meal.

For holidays like Christmas morning or Easter brunch, this casserole can be the centerpiece of your menu. Its make-ahead potential ensures you can spend more time with loved ones instead of being stuck in the kitchen.

Conclusion

The Loaded Hashbrown Casserole is a true gem in the world of breakfast and brunch dishes. Its combination of hearty ingredients, rich flavors, and easy preparation make it a standout option for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it to a crowd or enjoying it as part of your weekly meal prep, this casserole delivers comfort and satisfaction in every bite.

What truly sets this dish apart is its versatility. From accommodating dietary preferences to incorporating seasonal vegetables or alternative proteins, it can be customized to fit your needs. Beyond its flavor and convenience, the casserole also offers balanced nutrition, making it a wholesome choice for starting your day.

So, whether you’re hosting a weekend brunch, preparing for a holiday gathering, or simply looking for a breakfast option to make your mornings easier, this Loaded Hashbrown Casserole is sure to impress. Give it a try, and enjoy the warmth and deliciousness it brings to your table!

0 Shares

Loaded Hashbrown Casserole