Breakfast Casserole with Biscuits and Gravy

Nothing says comfort food like a Biscuits and Gravy Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole. This hearty, flavorful dish combines all your breakfast favorites flaky biscuits, savory sausage gravy, crispy hashbrowns, and melted cheese into one irresistible casserole. It’s the perfect way to start your day, bringing together rich textures and bold flavors in every bite. In this article, you’ll learn how to make this crowd-pleasing breakfast casserole, perfect for weekend mornings or special occasions. From prepping to baking, we’ll guide you through every step to ensure your casserole turns out perfect.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The Biscuits and Gravy Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole is a dream for anyone who loves classic breakfast comfort food. The combination of buttery biscuits and creamy, flavorful sausage gravy layered with crispy hashbrowns creates a hearty and satisfying dish. Each bite brings together the rich, savory flavors of sausage, the crunchiness of golden hashbrowns, and the soft, pillowy texture of the biscuits. With its savory components and a touch of cheesy goodness, this casserole offers the ultimate in breakfast indulgence.

The beauty of this casserole lies in its versatility. You can make it as indulgent or as light as you want, depending on your choice of sausage, cheese, and other ingredients. Whether you prefer spicy sausage for a kick or a more mild version, this recipe allows you to customize the flavor profile to suit your preferences. It’s a one-pan dish that feeds a crowd, making it ideal for family brunches, holiday breakfasts, or potlucks. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and can even be made ahead of time, making busy mornings a breeze.

One of the standout features of this casserole is how all the flavors meld together in the oven. The sausage gravy, biscuits, and hashbrowns cook together, allowing the flavors to blend beautifully. The result is a comforting, satisfying dish that will keep you full and happy all morning long.

Recipe Details

Biscuits and gravy are a classic American breakfast staple, especially popular in the Southern United States. The origins of sausage gravy date back to the early 19th century, where it was often made as a hearty, inexpensive dish for working-class families. Paired with fluffy, buttery biscuits, it became a beloved comfort food. The addition of hashbrowns in this casserole gives it a modern twist, turning the traditional dish into something even more indulgent.

This recipe uses the same key ingredients found in traditional biscuits and gravy, but combines them into a casserole for easy serving and maximum flavor. The hashbrowns provide a crispy base that contrasts beautifully with the creamy, savory sausage gravy and the pillowy biscuits. The casserole is baked in the oven, allowing the flavors to meld and the cheese to melt perfectly over the top, creating a delicious, comforting meal.

The cooking method for this casserole combines several techniques, including sautéing, layering, and baking. Sautéing the sausage before adding it to the casserole base enhances the flavor, allowing the meat to brown and develop a savory depth. The casserole is then baked until golden brown and bubbling, ensuring that each component is cooked to perfection.

Culturally, this dish is a fusion of classic Southern breakfast flavors, with hashbrowns added for a satisfying crunch. It’s a dish that can be enjoyed by anyone, regardless of whether they’re familiar with Southern cuisine or not, thanks to its universal appeal and comforting flavors.

Nutritional Information

A Biscuits and Gravy Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole is a rich and hearty dish, making it a filling and satisfying breakfast. While it’s not the lightest option, it provides essential nutrients in a balanced way. The casserole is packed with protein from the sausage and eggs, while the hashbrowns offer carbohydrates for energy. The cheese adds fat, which helps with satiety and flavor.

Each serving provides a good source of calcium from the cheese and vitamin C from any vegetables you might add, like bell peppers or onions. The sausage gravy adds additional fats and protein, making the dish both filling and indulgent. However, the richness of the casserole means it’s best enjoyed in moderation, especially for those watching their fat intake.

If you’re looking to make this recipe a bit lighter, consider swapping out the whole sausage for lean turkey sausage or using reduced-fat cheese. You can also substitute the hashbrowns with a lighter alternative, such as roasted sweet potatoes, to cut down on the carbs.

This dish is ideal for those who need a hearty meal to start their day, and when served with a side of fresh fruit or a simple green salad, it becomes a more balanced option. The casserole is packed with energy to fuel your morning activities and can easily be adapted for various dietary preferences or needs.

Ingredients

• Sausage: For the best flavor, use breakfast sausage or spicy sausage, depending on your preference. Ground pork sausage is traditional, but turkey or chicken sausage can be used for a leaner version.
• Hashbrowns: Frozen hashbrowns work well for this recipe. They provide the perfect base for the casserole and get crispy when baked.
• Biscuits: You can use store-bought refrigerated biscuits or homemade biscuits if you prefer. The biscuits add a tender, flaky texture that complements the richness of the gravy.
• Eggs: Eggs help bind the casserole together and provide additional protein. They also add a rich, creamy texture.
• Cheese: Shredded cheddar cheese is the most common choice, but you can also use a blend of cheeses or substitute for mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a milder flavor.
• Milk: Milk is used to create the creamy sausage gravy. Whole milk is recommended for richness, but you can use a lower-fat version if preferred.
• Flour: The flour is used to thicken the gravy. It helps create a creamy, smooth texture when combined with the milk.
• Seasonings: Salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder are the basic seasonings for the sausage gravy. You can add herbs like thyme or sage for additional flavor.

For the best results, try to source high-quality ingredients, especially for the sausage and cheese. Fresh eggs and flavorful sausage will elevate the dish and give it that homemade feel. If you want to make the casserole even more flavorful, consider adding finely chopped onions, bell peppers, or green onions to the mix.

Equipment Needed

To prepare the Biscuits and Gravy Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole, you’ll need a few key pieces of equipment:

• Large Skillet: A heavy-duty skillet or frying pan is essential for sautéing the sausage and preparing the gravy. This is where you’ll brown the sausage and make the base of the gravy.
• Casserole Dish: A 9×13-inch casserole dish works perfectly for this recipe. It provides enough space for the layers of biscuits, gravy, and hashbrowns to bake evenly.
• Mixing Bowls: You’ll need bowls for whisking the eggs, milk, and seasonings together. One for the wet ingredients and another for any vegetables or cheese you plan to mix in.
• Whisk and Spoon: A whisk is useful for mixing the eggs and milk, while a spoon or spatula is helpful for stirring the sausage gravy and other components.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precise measurements are essential for the gravy and egg mixture. Make sure to have measuring spoons and cups on hand.

Having these items ready will make the preparation process smooth and efficient. If you don’t have a casserole dish, you can also use a large baking dish, but ensure it’s oven-safe and can handle the volume of ingredients.

Pro Tips For Success

1. Use Quality Sausage: The sausage is the backbone of this dish, so don’t skimp on quality. Whether you prefer mild or spicy sausage, make sure it’s flavorful and well-seasoned to elevate the overall taste of the casserole.
2. Don’t Overcrowd the Skillet: When browning the sausage, avoid overcrowding the pan. If needed, cook the sausage in batches to ensure it browns properly and doesn’t steam.
3. Layer the Ingredients: Make sure to layer the hashbrowns, biscuits, sausage gravy, and eggs evenly for consistent cooking. Each bite should have a balanced mix of flavors.
4. Make-Ahead Option: If you want to save time, assemble the casserole the night before and store it in the refrigerator. In the morning, simply bake it off for a hassle-free breakfast.
5. Add Fresh Herbs: For extra flavor, sprinkle chopped fresh herbs such as parsley or thyme on top before serving. These add a burst of freshness that complements the richness of the casserole.
6. Test for Doneness: Since this casserole is dense, it’s important to check that it’s fully cooked. Insert a toothpick in the center to ensure it comes out clean, indicating the casserole is set and fully baked.

Avoid the common mistake of undercooking the casserole. It’s crucial that all components are cooked through, especially the eggs and hashbrowns, to avoid a soggy or raw texture.

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
2. Cook the Sausage: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Gravy: In the same skillet, add the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until it forms a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Cook until the gravy thickens, about 5 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
4. Assemble the Casserole: Layer the frozen hashbrowns at the bottom of the casserole dish. Spoon the cooked sausage evenly over the hashbrowns. Pour the sausage gravy over the sausage and hashbrowns. Break the biscuits into pieces and scatter them over the top of the gravy mixture.
5. Prepare the Egg Mixture: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and any additional seasonings. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the casserole.
6. Bake the Casserole: Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top of the casserole and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown.
7. Serve: Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs, if desired, and enjoy!

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Swap the sausage for a plant-based sausage or sautéed mushrooms for a meatless option. The gravy can also be made with vegetable broth instead of milk for a dairy-free version.
• Spicy Kick: Add a few dashes of hot sauce or spicy sausage for an extra burst of heat. You can also sprinkle some red pepper flakes into the sausage gravy for added spice.
• Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses. Pepper Jack adds a spicy kick, while Swiss or Gruyère cheese can provide a more mild, nutty flavor.

Storage & Serving Suggestions

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This casserole can also be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply bake at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave individual portions.

Serving Suggestions: Serve this casserole with a side of fresh fruit, a simple green salad, or even some crispy bacon for a full breakfast spread. It’s also perfect for brunch and pairs beautifully with a light mimosa or freshly brewed coffee.

FAQs

1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the casserole the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Bake it in the morning for a quick, hot breakfast.
2. What can I substitute for the hashbrowns? You can use tater tots, roasted sweet potatoes, or even crumbled breakfast potatoes as a substitute.
3. Can I use homemade biscuits? Absolutely! Homemade biscuits add a personal touch and will make this casserole even more special.
4. Can I make this dish without meat? Yes, use a vegetarian sausage or mushrooms as a replacement for the sausage.
5. Can I freeze this casserole? Yes, this casserole freezes well. Just wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap before freezing, and bake from frozen or after thawing in the fridge.

Conclusion

The Biscuits and Gravy Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole is a flavorful, satisfying dish that combines the best of classic breakfast comfort food into one easy-to-serve casserole. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just your family, this recipe will be a hit at any breakfast or brunch gathering. The savory sausage gravy, crispy hashbrowns, and fluffy biscuits come together to create a hearty, delicious meal that everyone will love.

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