Easy Breakfast Casserole

When we have guests over I always like cooking a nice breakfast for them, only thing I get stuck in the kitchen for an hour while everyone else is enjoying their morning talking and sipping hot coffee. So here is something you can make the day before and pop it in the oven in the morning and still get to enjoy a clean kitchen and some good company.

Take it out of the refrigerator about 15 minutes before baking.

Cook Time: 50 minutes

Ingredients:
1/2 pound spicy or mild pork sausage (optional) You can but bacon chunks if you would like
1 medium onion, chopped
4 cups frozen diced hash brown potatoes, thawed (about 16 ounces) or cubed potatoes (I prefer cubed potatoes)
1 1/2 cups shredded Monterrey Jack or Cheddar cheese
3 eggs, beaten
1 cup milk
1/4 teaspoon pepper

salt to taste (I even throw in some garlic and onion salt)
mild salsa, optional

Preparation:In a large skillet, cook sausage and onion, breaking up sausage with a spatula. When sausage is cooked through, drain off excess fat.

In an 8x8x2-inch square baking dish, layer the potatoes, half of the shredded cheese, browned sausage and onion mixture, and remaining shredded cheese.
In a bowl, combine eggs, milk and pepper; pour egg mixture over cheese.

Bake, covered, in a 350° oven for 45 to 55 minutes or until a knife inserted near center comes out clean. Transfer casserole to a wire rack and let stand for 10 to 15 minutes.
Cut into squares. Serve with salsa, if desired. Serves 6.