Imagine the comforting aroma of buttery biscuits, savory sausage gravy, and golden hashbrowns all baked into one irresistible dish. This Biscuits Gravy Hashbrown Casserole combines three breakfast favorites into an ultimate morning masterpiece that’s guaranteed to satisfy even the heartiest appetites. The crispy hashbrown base topped with creamy country gravy and flaky biscuits creates a texture and flavor combination that’s simply unbeatable. You’ll learn how to layer these elements perfectly for a breakfast casserole that will become your new weekend tradition.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This soul-warming Biscuits Gravy Hashbrown Casserole is about to become your new breakfast obsession for several compelling reasons. First, it’s the ultimate time-saver, transforming three separate breakfast components into one dish that can feed the whole family. The contrasting textures are what make this casserole truly special – crispy hashbrowns on the bottom, creamy sausage gravy in the middle, and pillowy biscuits on top that develop golden, buttery crusts.
The flavor profile hits all the right notes with savory sausage, black pepper, and hints of garlic, creating that classic country breakfast taste you crave. Best of all, this hearty breakfast hashbrown bake can be partially prepped the night before, making morning assembly quick and stress-free. It’s perfect for weekend family breakfasts, holiday morning gatherings, or meal prep for busy weekdays.
Ingredients
For the Biscuits Gravy Hashbrown Casserole, you’ll need:
- 1 lb (450g) frozen hashbrowns, thawed
- 2 Tbsp (30ml) melted butter
- 1 lb (450g) breakfast sausage (sage or country-style)
- 3 Tbsp (42g) butter
- 3 Tbsp (24g) all-purpose flour
- 2 cups (480ml) whole milk
- 1 tsp (5g) salt
- 1 1/2 tsp (3g) black pepper
- 1/4 tsp (1g) garlic powder
- 1 can (16 oz/450g) refrigerated biscuit dough (8 count)
- 1 cup (113g) shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced (optional, for garnish)
The quality of your breakfast sausage matters significantly here – choose a flavorful country-style or sage variety for the most authentic gravy. For the biscuits, refrigerated dough works perfectly, but you can substitute homemade biscuit dough if you prefer. The hashbrowns provide the foundation, so make sure they’re thoroughly thawed and patted dry to achieve that desirable crispy texture.
Pro Tips
Prep the Hashbrowns Properly
For the crispiest base to your Biscuits Gravy Hashbrown Casserole, thoroughly thaw your frozen hashbrowns and then press them between paper towels to remove excess moisture. This crucial step ensures they’ll crisp up rather than turn soggy. For extra flavor, mix the hashbrowns with a tablespoon of onion powder and a pinch of garlic salt before pressing them into the casserole dish.
Perfect Gravy Technique
The secret to silky-smooth gravy is patience during the roux stage. After browning your sausage, add butter and flour, then cook for a full 2 minutes before slowly adding milk. This eliminates the raw flour taste and prevents lumps. Whisk constantly while gradually adding the milk, and let the gravy simmer until it coats the back of a spoon – it will thicken further while baking.
Biscuit Placement Strategy
Instead of placing whole biscuits on top, cut each biscuit into quarters. This allows the biscuit pieces to expand while baking and creates more surface area for browning, resulting in more of those delicious crispy edges. For an extra-golden finish, brush the biscuit tops with melted butter before baking.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pan and Hashbrowns
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Mix the thawed hashbrowns with 2 tablespoons of melted butter and a pinch of salt and pepper. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish, creating an even layer. Bake just the hashbrown layer for 15 minutes to give it a head start on crisping.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage
While the hashbrowns pre-bake, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the breakfast sausage and break it into small crumbles with a wooden spoon. Cook until the sausage is browned and no longer pink, about 7-8 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked sausage to a paper towel-lined plate, leaving about 1 tablespoon of drippings in the pan.
Step 3: Make the Gravy
Reduce heat to medium and add 3 tablespoons of butter to the sausage drippings. Once melted, sprinkle in the flour and whisk continuously for 2 minutes until it forms a light golden roux. Gradually pour in the milk while whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Add salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Continue cooking and whisking until the gravy thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, about 3-4 minutes. Return the cooked sausage to the gravy and stir to combine.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Remove the pre-baked hashbrown base from the oven. Pour the hot sausage gravy evenly over the hashbrown layer. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese over the gravy. Cut each biscuit into quarters and arrange them across the top of the casserole, slightly overlapping. Sprinkle the remaining cheese around and over the biscuit pieces.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake the assembled Biscuits Gravy Hashbrown Casserole for 25-30 minutes, until the biscuits are puffed and golden brown and the edges are bubbling. If the biscuits brown too quickly, loosely cover with foil for the remaining bake time. Allow the casserole to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with sliced green onions if desired.
Variations
Spicy Southwest Version
Transform your Biscuits Gravy Hashbrown Casserole with a southwestern twist by using hot breakfast sausage and adding 1 diced jalapeño, 1/2 cup of corn kernels, and 1/2 cup black beans to the gravy mixture. Replace the cheddar with pepper jack cheese and garnish with chopped cilantro and a dollop of sour cream. This variation adds vibrant colors and a pleasant heat that cuts through the richness of the dish.
Lighter Country Herb Option
For a lighter version, substitute turkey breakfast sausage and use 2% milk instead of whole milk in the gravy. Add 1 tablespoon of fresh chopped sage, 1 teaspoon of thyme, and 1/2 cup of diced bell peppers to the gravy for additional flavor and nutrition. Use reduced-fat biscuits and cheese to further reduce calories without sacrificing the comforting essence of this hearty breakfast casserole.
Bacon and Mushroom Twist
Replace half the sausage with 6 slices of crispy chopped bacon and add 8 ounces of sautéed mushrooms to the gravy for an earthy, smoky flavor profile. This variation works wonderfully with the addition of Swiss cheese instead of cheddar and a sprinkle of fresh thyme on top of the biscuits before baking.
Storage and Serving
Your Biscuits Gravy Hashbrown Casserole can be refrigerated for up to 3 days in an airtight container. For best results when reheating, cover with foil and warm in a 325°F oven for 15-20 minutes until heated through. Microwave reheating works in a pinch, but the biscuits may lose some of their desirable texture.
This hearty casserole stands beautifully on its own, but there are several ways to elevate your serving. Pair it with fresh fruit such as berries or citrus segments to cut through the richness. For brunch gatherings, serve alongside a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. For an extra-indulgent breakfast, top individual portions with a perfectly fried egg, allowing the runny yolk to create another dimension of sauce.
For meal prep purposes, you can freeze individual portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for the best texture and flavor preservation.
FAQs
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the hashbrown layer and the sausage gravy the night before and refrigerate separately. In the morning, warm the gravy slightly before assembling with the cold hashbrown base, then top with biscuits and cheese before baking. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time if starting with cold components.
Can I use homemade biscuit dough instead of canned?
Absolutely. Prepare your favorite biscuit dough and either cut it into rounds to place on top or dollop it by spoonfuls for a more rustic look. Homemade biscuits may require adjusting the baking time slightly.
My gravy got lumpy. How can I fix it?
If you notice lumps forming, remove the pan from heat immediately and whisk vigorously. If lumps persist, strain the gravy through a fine-mesh sieve or pulse it briefly with an immersion blender before continuing.
Can I use fresh hashbrowns instead of frozen?
Yes. If you’re shredding your own potatoes, wring out excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel before mixing with butter and seasonings. Fresh hashbrowns may cook faster, so watch carefully during the pre-baking step.
Is there a way to make this vegetarian?
Substitute the breakfast sausage with a plant-based alternative or 8 ounces of sautéed mushrooms and 1 cup of diced vegetables like bell peppers and onions. Use vegetable broth and a little extra butter to create the gravy base.
Conclusion
This Biscuits Gravy Hashbrown Casserole is comfort food at its finest — a delicious trinity of breakfast favorites transformed into one spectacular dish. It’s the kind of recipe that brings everyone to the table with its irresistible aroma and satisfies with its hearty, savory goodness. Whether you’re serving it for a special weekend breakfast, holiday brunch, or cozy family dinner, this casserole proves that sometimes the most comforting meals are the ones that combine familiar favorites in new and exciting ways. Make this your next breakfast tradition and watch how quickly it becomes requested time and again.
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Biscuits Gravy Hashbrown Casserole
Description
Skip the drive-thru and make this loaded breakfast casserole that combines ALL your morning favorites in one mouthwatering dish. Breakfast dreams do come true!
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) frozen hashbrowns, thawed
- 2 Tbsp (30ml) melted butter
- 1 lb (450g) breakfast sausage (sage or country-style)
- 3 Tbsp (42g) butter
- 3 Tbsp (24g) all-purpose flour
- 2 cups (480ml) whole milk
- 1 tsp (5g) salt
- 1 1/2 tsp (3g) black pepper
- 1/4 tsp (1g) garlic powder
- 1 can (16 oz/450g) refrigerated biscuit dough (8 count)
- 1 cup (113g) shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Mix thawed hashbrowns with melted butter and a pinch of salt and pepper, then press into dish. Bake for 15 minutes.
- Meanwhile, cook breakfast sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into crumbles. Transfer sausage to a paper towel-lined plate, leaving 1 Tbsp drippings in pan.
- Reduce heat to medium. Add butter to drippings. Once melted, whisk in flour and cook for 2 minutes until golden. Gradually whisk in milk, then add salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Cook, whisking constantly, until gravy thickens. Return sausage to gravy and stir.
- Pour sausage gravy over pre-baked hashbrowns. Sprinkle with half the cheese. Cut each biscuit into quarters and arrange on top, then sprinkle with remaining cheese.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until biscuits are golden and casserole is bubbling. Let rest 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with green onions if desired.