Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 50 minutes
Total time: ~1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 8
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
If there’s one dish that embodies pure Southern comfort, it’s a rich, creamy Biscuits and Gravy Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole. This dish combines everything we love about a country breakfast—fluffy biscuits, golden hashbrowns, and savory sausage gravy—all baked together into one bubbling, hearty casserole that’s perfect for feeding a crowd.
Whether you’re cooking for a weekend brunch, a holiday morning, or just craving a cozy breakfast that feels like home, this casserole delivers every time.
🌄 Why This Casserole Is a Southern Breakfast Classic
Few dishes capture the soul of the South like biscuits and gravy. Originating in the late 1800s among Appalachian cooks, the dish was born from simple ingredients: flour, milk, sausage drippings, and biscuits made from scratch. Over time, it became a staple on every Southern breakfast table.
This version takes that same beloved concept and gives it a modern twist—layering creamy sausage gravy over crisp hashbrowns and fluffy biscuits. The result? A one-dish wonder that’s golden on top, creamy in the middle, and packed with flavor.
🧂 Ingredients You’ll Need (and Why They Matter)
Every component of this casserole plays a role in achieving that perfect texture and flavor balance.
🥓 For the Sausage Gravy
- 1 pound breakfast sausage (mild or spicy): Classic pork sausage adds rich, savory depth. You can substitute turkey sausage or plant-based sausage for lighter options.
- 3 tablespoons butter: Helps create a silky gravy texture.
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour: Thickens the gravy for that creamy consistency.
- 3 cups whole milk: Adds richness; for a lighter version, use 2% milk or oat milk.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper & ½ teaspoon salt: Season to taste; pepper is essential for classic Southern flavor.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional): Adds subtle warmth.
🥔 For the Casserole Base
- 4 cups frozen hashbrowns (thawed and drained): Forms a crispy, hearty layer.
- 1 can (16 oz) refrigerated biscuits: Use homestyle or buttermilk biscuits for a tender crumb.
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into the layers for richness.
- 6 large eggs: Bind everything together.
- 1 cup milk or half-and-half: Ensures the eggs bake evenly and stay creamy.
- ½ teaspoon onion powder: Enhances flavor without overpowering.
- Salt & pepper to taste.
🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions (With Chef Tips)
Step 1: Prepare the Hashbrown Layer
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with butter or nonstick spray.
- Spread thawed hashbrowns evenly on the bottom.
- Bake for 20 minutes to pre-crisp the hashbrowns. 💡 Chef’s Tip: Pre-baking keeps them from turning soggy once the gravy and eggs go on top.
Step 2: Make the Sausage Gravy
- In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium heat until browned and crumbly.
- Add butter and stir until melted.
- Sprinkle flour over sausage, stirring constantly for 1–2 minutes to cook the flour.
- Gradually whisk in milk until the gravy thickens and becomes creamy (about 5 minutes).
- Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. 💡 Chef’s Tip: Don’t rush the thickening—slow simmering gives you that smooth, velvety gravy.
Step 3: Mix the Egg Layer
- In a large bowl, whisk eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and onion powder until smooth.
- Stir in shredded cheddar cheese.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
- Place biscuit pieces (cut each biscuit into quarters) over the baked hashbrowns.
- Pour the sausage gravy evenly on top.
- Pour the egg mixture over everything, allowing it to seep between layers.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
- Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, or until golden on top and set in the center.
- Cool for 5–10 minutes before serving—this helps the layers hold together. 💡 Chef’s Tip: If the top browns too quickly, cover loosely with foil for the last 10 minutes.
❄️ Make-Ahead, Freezing & Reheating Tips
- Make-Ahead (Refrigerated): Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Cover tightly and refrigerate. Bake directly from cold, adding an extra 5–10 minutes.
- Freezing: Bake completely, cool, and wrap in foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat at 350°F for 30–40 minutes.
- Leftovers: Store in airtight containers up to 4 days; reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven.
🔀 Expert Variations (for Every Lifestyle)
- Spicy Southwest Version: Add diced jalapeños, pepper jack cheese, and a dash of hot sauce.
- Vegetarian Version: Use plant-based sausage and mushroom gravy.
- Keto-Friendly Option: Replace hashbrowns with cauliflower hash and use almond flour biscuits.
- Holiday Brunch Upgrade: Add crumbled bacon, caramelized onions, and a sprinkle of fresh parsley.
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the pre-bake step: Leads to soggy hashbrowns.
- Using cold gravy: It won’t spread evenly; use warm gravy.
- Overbaking: Causes eggs to dry out—check at the 30-minute mark.
- Not seasoning layers: Each layer (hashbrowns, eggs, gravy) needs a little salt and pepper.
🥣 Nutrition, Serving Ideas & Pairings
Estimated per serving (1 of 8):
- Calories: 480
- Protein: 22g
- Carbs: 36g
- Fat: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
Serving Ideas:
- Pair with a side of fresh fruit salad or roasted tomatoes.
- Serve with iced coffee or sweet tea for a classic Southern brunch.
- Add a drizzle of hot sauce or country gravy on top for extra comfort.
💬 Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I use homemade biscuits instead of canned?
Absolutely. Homemade biscuits add a rustic texture—just bake them halfway before layering.
Q2: Can I prepare this the night before?
Yes! Assemble it, refrigerate overnight, and bake in the morning.
Q3: My gravy turned too thick—what can I do?
Whisk in a bit of warm milk until you reach your desired consistency.
Q4: Can I use shredded potatoes instead of frozen hashbrowns?
Yes, but squeeze out all excess moisture with paper towels before using.
🧑🍳 Chef’s Notes & Pro Secrets
- For maximum flavor, brown the sausage deeply—this caramelization adds umami.
- Use freshly shredded cheese (not pre-bagged) for better melting.
- Always let the casserole rest 10 minutes after baking to firm up layers.
- Sprinkle with chopped chives or green onions for color and freshness.
🍽️ Final Thoughts: Comfort Food, Elevated
This Biscuits and Gravy Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole captures everything comforting about Southern breakfast—creamy gravy, crispy potatoes, fluffy biscuits, and golden cheese—baked into a single crowd-pleasing dish. It’s easy to make, deeply satisfying, and flexible enough for any occasion.
Whether you’re feeding family on Sunday morning or preparing a make-ahead brunch for guests, this casserole never disappoints. It’s comfort food that feels like home—and tastes even better.
