
This effortless breakfast casserole brings together tender biscuit pieces golden hashbrowns and crumbled sausage all blanketed with creamy sausage gravy and a generous layer of melted cheddar. Quick prep means you only need 15 minutes to set up then relax as everything melds together in the oven. Each bite delivers rich Southern comfort with savory spices and gooey cheese wrapped in a cozy golden crust. Ideal for leisurely mornings this hearty dish satisfies any craving for a warming all-in-one breakfast that pleases family or guests.
The first time I made this casserole was for my in-laws and even the picky eaters went back for seconds. Now I get asked for the recipe every winter.
Ingredients
- McCormick Sausage Flavor Gravy Mix: Delivers classic savory flavor and thickens the casserole. I always check for a smooth powder with no clumps for the best texture.
- Jimmy Dean Premium Pork Sausage: Brings a familiar spiced taste and protein. Look for sausage that is pink and well packaged with no discoloration.
- Ore-Ida Shredded Hash Browns: Cut prep time and bake up crisp at the base. Choose packages without excess ice crystals to make sure they are fresh and not freezer burnt.
- Pillsbury Grands Buttermilk Biscuits: Rise high and turn deliciously golden. Gently press the can at the seam before opening for easy release.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Layers on sharp flavor and melty texture. Buy blocks and shred yourself for the best melt.
- Milk: Blends with the gravy for creamy results. Whole milk gives the richest flavor but any milk works.
- Garlic Powder: Adds depth and savory notes. Opt for a powder that is fine and aromatic.
- Black Pepper: Wakes up all the flavors. Freshly cracked pepper is always my pick for brightness.
- Salt: Ties the casserole together. Use kosher salt for even seasoning.
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prep Pan:
- Heat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit which is 190 degrees Celsius. Grease a nine by thirteen inch baking dish thoroughly with butter or nonstick spray so nothing sticks and cleanup is easy.
- Brown the Sausage:
- Place pork sausage in a skillet over medium heat. Use a spatula to break it into crumbles as it cooks stirring often until there is no pink left which usually takes about eight minutes. Drain all the grease so your casserole stays crisp not soggy.
- Layer the Hash Browns and Sausage:
- Spread the shredded hash browns in an even layer into the greased baking dish. Scatter all the drained sausage over the hash browns making sure each bite will have both.
- Mix and Pour the Gravy:
- In a mixing bowl combine the gravy mix with milk whisking vigorously until totally smooth with no lumps. Pour this mixture evenly over the sausage and hash browns so every bit is coated.
- Add Cheese Layer:
- Sprinkle all the shredded cheddar cheese over the top creating a solid layer. Press it down gently with your hand so it sticks into the gravy.
- Place the Biscuits:
- Open the can of biscuits and cut each biscuit into four pieces. Arrange these pieces across the entire top of the casserole overlapping them slightly so there will be golden edges everywhere.
- Bake and Rest:
- Slide the assembled casserole into your preheated oven. Bake for twenty five to thirty minutes until the biscuits are puffed and deeply golden brown. Let the dish sit for five minutes so everything sets before scooping to serve.

My favorite ingredient is always the cheddar cheese because nothing beats that gooey layer on top. I once made this with my niece and watched her sprinkle every bit of cheese with total focus. Now she is the first one at the table for breakfast.
Storage Tips
Cover the cooled casserole tightly with foil or transfer portions to airtight containers. Store in the fridge for up to four days. For best results reheat in the oven at three hundred and fifty degrees until warmed through so the biscuits stay crisp.
Ingredient Substitutions
Use turkey sausage or even a meatless crumble if pork is not your thing. You can sub any shredded cheese for cheddar. I have used Monterey Jack and even Swiss for different flavors. Try homemade biscuits if you have the time for an extra tender bite.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is a meal on its own but I love to serve it with a fresh fruit salad for some brightness. A simple green salad with tangy vinaigrette pairs well too if you want to round out a brunch spread. For a Southern classic vibe set out a bowl of hot sauce or pepper jelly.
Cultural and Historical Context
Biscuits and gravy have deep Southern roots and were originally a humble meal to satisfy hard-working farm families. Hashbrowns and cheese are modern additions that make this the ultimate comfort food casserole. I first learned this from a community church supper where every cook had their own version.

This breakfast casserole brings everyone to the table with its hearty flavors and comforting warmth. Leftovers—if you have any—reheat beautifully for a second round of enjoyment.
Common Questions About Recipes
- → How do I achieve golden biscuits on top?
Arrange biscuit pieces evenly and bake until puffed and deep golden brown. Let the dish sit before serving for best texture.
- → Can I substitute different types of sausage?
Yes, turkey sausage or plant-based crumbles work well and bring new flavors without changing cooking times.
- → What are some cheese alternatives to cheddar?
Try Monterey Jack, Swiss, or your favorite blends for a different cheesy finish and flavor profile.
- → How should leftovers be stored and reheated?
Keep covered in the fridge up to four days. Reheat in the oven for best biscuit texture and evenly warmed layers.
- → Can this be prepared ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the dish and chill overnight. Bake fresh in the morning for an easy start to the day.
- → Is it possible to use fresh hashbrowns?
Absolutely, just make sure to squeeze out excess moisture before layering to ensure crispness.