Step 1

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees.

Step 2

Mix together the hashbrowns and butter, and place into the bottom of a well-greased baking dish.

Step 3

Saute the sausage and onion in a skillet over medium-high heat on the stove until the meat is browned and the onions have softened.

Step 4

Add the garlic and saute for another 30 seconds.

Step 5

Mix together the eggs, cottage cheese, cheddar cheese, the meat mixture, and salt and pepper to taste until well blended.

Step 6

Pour the egg mixture over the potatoes in the baking dish.

Step 7

Bake for 1 hour or until the mixture has completely set.

Step 8

Garnish with freshly chopped chives before serving.