
Imagine munching on this breakfast masterpiece that blends three morning classics into one tasty treat. With soft buttermilk biscuits, hearty sausage gravy, and crunchy hash browns all joined together, you've got the ultimate comfort meal for lazy weekends or special holiday gatherings. Everyone loves how the textures and tastes work together in this crowd-winning dish.
The first time I whipped this up was during Christmas morning with the in-laws visiting. While everyone was tearing open gifts and the house was full of excitement, I needed something filling but quick to make. This dish turned into a family favorite right away and now shows up whenever we get together.
Ingredients
- Pillsbury Grands Buttermilk Biscuits: They make that golden flaky top that everyone fights over. Just make sure they're not past their use-by date for best results.
- Jimmy Dean Premium Pork Sausage: Gives you reliable taste and just the right fat to make your gravy base. Go with premium for the best bite and flavor.
- Ore Ida Shredded Hash Browns: They form that crispy bottom layer everyone loves. Don't thaw them out before using to keep them nice and crunchy.
- McCormick Sausage Flavor Gravy Mix: Makes perfect gravy every time without any guesswork. It's a shortcut that tastes like you slaved away.
- Milk: Turns your gravy packet into something smooth and delicious. Full-fat works best for extra goodness.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Creates that gooey middle that pulls everything together. Grate it yourself instead of buying pre-shredded for better melting.
- Salt: Brings out all the good flavors throughout. Try kosher salt for a cleaner flavor.
- Black pepper: Adds just enough kick to wake up your taste buds. Grind it fresh if you can.
- Garlic powder: Gives subtle flavor without taking over. You just need a small amount.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Get Your Dish Ready:
- Turn your oven on to 375°F. This temp will make your biscuits nice and brown while cooking everything underneath perfectly. Coat your 9x13 dish with butter or cooking spray, paying extra attention to the edges where food likes to stick.
- Brown The Sausage:
- Put a big pan on medium heat until it feels warm when you hold your hand above it. Drop in the Jimmy Dean sausage, breaking it apart with your spoon as it cooks. Keep cooking for about 7 minutes until it's all brown and slightly crispy at the edges. Get rid of the extra fat by draining it or scooping it out with a spoon.
- Build The Foundation:
- Grab your frozen hash browns and spread them across the bottom of your greased dish. Don't worry about thawing them first. Push them down a bit to make a solid base. Then sprinkle your cooked sausage all over the hash browns so you'll get some meat in every bite.
- Mix Up The Gravy:
- In a bowl, mix the McCormick gravy packet with milk until it's smooth without any lumps. Start mixing fast, then slow down as it comes together. It'll look pretty thin now but don't worry, it'll thicken up while baking. Pour this all over your sausage and hash browns, letting it sink down into all the spaces.
- Cheese Time:
- Take your cheddar and scatter it all over everything. Make sure it goes right to the sides so every serving has that yummy cheese pull.
- Add The Biscuits:
- Open your biscuit can and cut each biscuit into four pieces. A pizza cutter works great for this job. Place these pieces all over the top of your dish, leaving tiny spaces between them so steam can escape and the biscuits can grow.
- Bake Until Done:
- Put your dish on the middle rack and let it cook for 25 to 30 minutes. You'll know it's ready when the biscuits puff up and turn golden brown. The cheese should be totally melted and bubbling a little at the edges. Let it sit for 5 minutes before serving so everything can firm up a bit.

That McCormick gravy packet really makes this dish shine. I tried using homemade gravy once and while it tasted good, the easy and reliable results from the packet won me over. My best memory of this casserole was when my teenage boy figured out how to make it on his own and surprised me with it for Mother's Day. There's nothing better than watching your kids learn to cook family favorites.
Make Ahead Instructions
This dish works wonders as a prep-ahead option when mornings get crazy. Fix everything up to the biscuit layer the night before. Wrap it tight with plastic and stick it in the fridge. When morning comes, take it out while your oven warms up, put the cut biscuits on top, and bake as normal. You might need to add an extra 5 to 7 minutes since everything starts out cold. This trick makes holiday mornings totally relaxed.
Smart Substitutions
Want something lighter? Turkey sausage works really well instead of pork. It tastes a bit different but still really good. You can also try low-fat cheese, though it won't melt as smoothly. If you don't eat meat, swap in a plant-based sausage and veggie gravy mix. It won't be exactly the same but still hits the spot for folks avoiding meat.
Serving Suggestions
This filling casserole goes great with some fresh fruit on the side to balance out the richness. Try mixed berries or orange slices. For a fancy brunch, add mimosas or spicy Bloody Marys. If you're having it for dinner, a simple green salad with tangy dressing makes the perfect partner to this rich, savory dish.

Recipe FAQs
- → Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
You sure can! Put everything together except the biscuits, then wrap it up and stick it in the fridge overnight. Just add the biscuits right before you pop it in the oven, and cook it a bit longer (about 5-10 extra minutes) since you're starting with cold stuff.
- → Can I use homemade biscuits instead of canned?
You bet! Make your own biscuit dough and plop it on top before baking. Just make sure they're fully cooked and not doughy in the middle when you're ready to eat.
- → What can I substitute for pork sausage?
Turkey sausage works great if you want something lighter. Going meatless? Try a veggie sausage or throw in some cooked mushrooms, peppers, and onions instead.
- → How do I know when the casserole is done?
Look for golden brown biscuits on top and melty cheese. Stick a knife into one of the biscuits to check they aren't raw inside.
- → Can I freeze leftovers of this casserole?
Definitely! Cut into smaller portions and freeze for up to 2 months. Warm them up in the microwave or oven whenever you need a quick meal.
- → What sides pair well with this dish?
This meal stands pretty well on its own, but fresh fruit, a simple green salad, or some honey-drizzled yogurt would round things out nicely.