Creating Sausage Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole is straightforward and enjoyable. Just follow these simple steps:

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet, cook the breakfast sausage over medium heat. Crumble the sausage as it cooks until it’s browned and no longer pink. Drain excess grease and set aside.
3. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the thawed hash browns, cheddar cheese, diced onion, and bell pepper, if using.
4. Prepare the Egg Mixture: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
5. Combine Everything Together: Add the cooked sausage to the hash brown mixture, stir to combine. Pour the egg mixture over the top and gently stir until all ingredients are evenly mixed.
6. Prepare the Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish and pour the casserole mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly.
7. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes or until the edges are golden and the center is set. You can check doneness by inserting a knife—if it comes out clean, it’s ready!
8. Cool Briefly: Once baked, allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before cutting into squares for serving.

These steps ensure a delightful and hot breakfast casserole that your family will remember.