Cheesy Apple and Sausage Breakfast Casserole

This Cheesy Apple and Sausage Breakfast Casserole is the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table without much effort. It’s warm, hearty, and full of cozy flavors, making it perfect for weekend brunches, holiday mornings, or feeding a crowd on busy days. Savory breakfast sausage, tender hash browns, melty cheddar cheese, and sweet apples with a hint of cinnamon come together in one comforting, oven-baked dish. It’s a unique twist on a classic breakfast casserole that feels familiar yet special, ideal for make-ahead mornings or relaxed family gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect for feeding a crowd with minimal prep
• Sweet and savory flavor combination that feels cozy and satisfying
• Great make-ahead breakfast or brunch option
• Uses simple, easy-to-find ingredients
• Comforting, hearty, and filling without being complicated

Ingredients

• Unsalted butter – Prevents sticking and adds richness to the casserole
• Shredded hash browns – Create a hearty, comforting base with a soft interior
• Sharp cheddar cheese – Adds bold, melty, savory flavor throughout the dish
• Gala apples – Bring natural sweetness and balance the savory sausage
• Ground cinnamon – Enhances the apples with warm, cozy spice
• Eggs – Bind everything together and give the casserole structure
• Milk – Keeps the egg mixture creamy and tender
• Breakfast sausage – Adds savory depth and satisfying protein
• Salt – Enhances all the flavors
• Black pepper – Adds gentle warmth and balance
• Onion powder – Provides subtle savory flavor without overpowering

How to Make Cheesy Apple and Sausage Breakfast Casserole

Prepare the Oven and Dish

Preheat the oven to 375°F. Use a paper towel to spread the butter evenly across the bottom and sides of a 13 x 9-inch baking dish, making sure all corners are well coated.

Layer the Potatoes and Cheese

Scatter the thawed hash browns evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle 1/2 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the potatoes to create a flavorful base layer.

Toss the Apples with Cinnamon

In a medium bowl, toss the diced apples with the ground cinnamon until evenly coated. This step ensures every bite has a warm, lightly spiced sweetness.

Prepare the Filling

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until smooth. Break the breakfast sausage into bite-size pieces and add them to the bowl. Add the cinnamon-coated apples, 1 cup of the cheddar cheese, salt, black pepper, and onion powder. Mix everything together well using a silicone spatula to evenly distribute the ingredients.

Assemble and Bake

Pour the egg and sausage mixture evenly over the potatoes and cheese in the baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it out so the filling reaches the edges. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese over the top. Bake for 40 to 50 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, the edges are golden, and the center is set. If using a ceramic baking dish, the casserole may need up to 1 hour. Let cool on a rack for 10 minutes before serving.

Tips for Success

• Make sure hash browns are fully thawed to avoid excess moisture
• Dice the apples evenly so they cook at the same rate
• Use sharp cheddar for the best flavor contrast
• Let the casserole rest before slicing for cleaner servings

Equipment Needed

• 13 x 9-inch baking dish (glass or ceramic)
• Large mixing bowl
• Medium mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Silicone spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Breakfast Casserole: Use spicy breakfast sausage or add a pinch of red pepper flakes
• Vegetarian Version: Skip the sausage and add sautéed mushrooms or spinach
• Extra Cheesy Option: Mix in mozzarella or Monterey Jack for extra meltiness
• Autumn Twist: Swap Gala apples for Honeycrisp or add a pinch of nutmeg

Serving Suggestions

Serve this breakfast casserole with fresh fruit, a simple green salad, or warm biscuits. It also pairs well with coffee, tea, or fresh juice for a complete brunch spread.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, assemble it the night before, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Bake fresh in the morning, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
How do I store leftovers?
Cover tightly and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
Can I freeze this breakfast casserole?
Yes, cut into portions, wrap in foil, and freeze in a zip-top bag for up to 1 month.
How do I reheat it?
Microwave individual portions until heated through or reheat covered in the oven.
What type of sausage works best?
Classic pork breakfast sausage works best, but turkey sausage is a good alternative.

Final Thoughts

This Cheesy Apple and Sausage Breakfast Casserole is a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that brings together sweet, savory, and cheesy flavors in every bite. It’s easy to prepare, perfect for sharing, and versatile enough for holidays, weekends, or make-ahead breakfasts. Try it once, and it just might become a new breakfast favorite in your kitchen.

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