If you ever crave a hearty, flavorful, and crowd-pleasing breakfast dish, this Mexican Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a brilliant combination of crispy hash browns, savory sausage, melty cheese, and zesty salsa, all brought together with a perfectly seasoned egg mixture that bakes into a golden, comforting casserole. Whether you’re feeding a big family or hosting brunch with friends, this dish delivers spice and satisfaction in every bite, making your mornings instantly more exciting.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this casserole lies in its simplicity; each ingredient plays a vital role in building layers of texture and vibrant southwestern flavors. From the crispy frozen hash browns that form the base to the bold taco seasoning that seasons the eggs, these essentials come together perfectly to create a dish that’s as easy to assemble as it is delicious to eat.
- 8 frozen hash brown patties: Provide a crispy and sturdy base that soaks up all the flavorful ingredients.
- 1½ lbs sausage: Adds a hearty protein punch and savory depth to the casserole.
- 1½ cup salsa: Brings a zesty, tangy kick that livens up every bite.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Adds a sharp, melty richness that complements the spices.
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese: Offers a creamy, mild melt for perfect cheesy balance.
- 12 large eggs: Create a fluffy, custard-like filling that holds the casserole together beautifully.
- ¼ cup milk: Lightens the egg mixture for a silky texture.
- 1 (1-oz) package taco seasoning: Infuses the eggs with authentic Mexican-inspired flavor.
How to Make Mexican Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Base
Start by preheating your oven to 350ºF and spraying a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Then, arrange the frozen hash brown patties evenly across the bottom of the dish. These will crisp up during baking and serve as a sturdy, golden foundation for the layers to come.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage until it’s no longer pink. Make sure to break it up into small crumbles as it cooks to ensure even distribution. When done, drain any excess grease so the casserole doesn’t become too oily but stays flavorful and rich.
Step 3: Layer Your Casserole
Spread the cooked sausage evenly over the hash browns. Next, sprinkle the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses on top, creating a gooey cheese layer. Finish this step by adding the salsa—its vibrant red color not only looks irresistible but also adds a fresh, tangy twist.
Step 4: Whisk and Pour the Egg Mixture
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and taco seasoning until everything is fully combined and smooth. Pour this mixture carefully over the layered ingredients in the baking dish, allowing the spiced egg custard to seep down and marry all the flavors.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake the casserole uncovered for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top turns a beautiful golden brown. You’ll know it’s ready when the center is firm and a knife inserted comes out clean. Let it cool for a few minutes before digging in.
How to Serve Mexican Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes can elevate your casserole to new heights. Consider a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of chopped fresh cilantro, or a few slices of ripe avocado. These add freshness and coolness that perfectly balance the spices, creating a more layered experience with every bite.
Side Dishes
While this casserole is hearty on its own, pairing it with simple sides can round out your meal. Try serving it alongside a crisp green salad, some fresh fruit, or even warm tortillas for a complete Tex-Mex breakfast feast that everyone will love.
Creative Ways to Present
For a brunch gathering, consider slicing the casserole into squares and serving each piece on individual plates with bright garnishes. You could also portion it into small ramekins for personalized servings or add a drizzle of hot sauce for those who like extra heat. Presentation is a great way to make this Mexican Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole Recipe feel special and festive.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To keep your leftovers fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When properly stored, the casserole maintains its flavor and texture, making it a convenient breakfast or snack option throughout the week.
Freezing
This casserole freezes wonderfully and is perfect for prepping meals in advance. Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and foil or store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the microwave for a quick fix or place them in a preheated oven at 350ºF for 15 to 20 minutes until warmed through. To keep the top crispy, a quick stint under the broiler for a minute or two is a great finishing touch.
FAQs
Can I use fresh hash browns instead of frozen patties?
Absolutely! Fresh shredded potatoes can give you a more homemade texture, but you’ll want to shred and squeeze out excess moisture beforehand to avoid sogginess. Adjust baking time accordingly since fresh hash browns may brown faster.
Is this casserole spicy?
The spice level mainly depends on the salsa and taco seasoning you choose. Mild versions keep it gentle, while hotter salsas and spicier taco mixes will ramp up the heat. You can customize it easily to your taste.
Can I substitute the sausage with another protein?
Yes, feel free to swap in cooked chorizo, ground turkey, or even a plant-based sausage alternative. Each choice changes the flavor profile slightly but still makes a delicious casserole.
How long does it take to bake the casserole?
Plan for about 45 to 50 minutes at 350ºF. This allows the eggs to set fully and the top to develop a golden crust. If baking from frozen, you might need to add extra time.
Can I prepare this casserole the night before?
Definitely! You can assemble the casserole the night before and refrigerate it, then bake it fresh in the morning. This makes your morning routine much easier and the flavors even more melded.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so satisfying about this Mexican Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole Recipe that keeps me coming back for more. It’s simple to make, packed with bright, bold flavors, and perfect for feeding a hungry crowd or enjoying as hearty weekday fuel. Give it a try—you won’t believe how easy it is to turn a few simple ingredients into a vibrant breakfast sensation that warms both the heart and the belly.
Print
Mexican Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Breakfast Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Description
This Mexican Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole is a hearty and flavorful dish perfect for breakfast or brunch. Featuring layers of crispy hash brown patties, seasoned sausage, melted cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, and zesty salsa, all bound together by a savory seasoned egg mixture. Baked to golden perfection, this casserole offers a satisfying meal that serves eight and is sure to please a crowd.
Ingredients
Base Layer
- 8 frozen hash brown patties
Sausage Layer
- 1½ lbs sausage
Cheese and Salsa Layer
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1½ cup salsa
Egg Mixture
- 12 large eggs
- ¼ cup milk
- 1 (1-oz) package taco seasoning
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350ºF. Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Arrange Hash Brown Patties: Place the frozen hash brown patties evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish, creating a solid base layer for the casserole.
- Cook Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage thoroughly until no pink remains. Drain off any excess grease to keep the casserole from becoming too fatty.
- Layer Sausage, Cheese, and Salsa: Spread the cooked sausage evenly over the hash brown patty layer. Then, sprinkle the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses on top, followed by the salsa to add moisture and flavor.
- Prepare Egg Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and the entire package of taco seasoning until well combined and smooth.
- Pour Egg Mixture Over Layers: Gently pour the egg mixture evenly over the casserole layers, ensuring it seeps through all the ingredients.
- Bake the Casserole: Bake the casserole uncovered in the preheated oven for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is slightly golden. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- Use lean sausage to reduce grease and excess fat.
- Feel free to add diced onions or bell peppers to the sausage for extra flavor and texture.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Substitute salsa with your favorite variety to adjust spiciness levels.
- This casserole can be assembled the night before and baked fresh in the morning for convenience.
