Start your morning right with a hearty and delicious Sausage, Egg, and Cream Cheese Hashbrown Casserole. This dish combines savory sausage, fluffy eggs, rich cream cheese, and crispy hashbrowns to create the ultimate comfort food. Whether you’re hosting a weekend brunch, looking for an easy breakfast, or feeding a crowd, this casserole will become a family favorite in no time.
Why You’ll Love This Sausage, Egg, and Cream Cheese Hashbrown Casserole
This casserole is packed with flavor and is perfect for anyone craving a satisfying and easy-to-make breakfast. It’s a great dish to prepare ahead of time, bake in the morning, and serve with a side of fruit or toast. The cream cheese adds a creamy, rich texture, while the sausage gives it a hearty kick.
The Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound of breakfast sausage (ground)
- 6 large eggs
- 1 bag (30 oz) frozen hashbrowns (thawed)
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped (optional)
- 1/2 cup bell peppers, finely chopped (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions for Sausage, Egg, and Cream Cheese Hashbrown Casserole
1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare Your Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or a little butter to ensure your casserole doesn’t stick.
2. Cook the Sausage
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage until it’s browned and fully cooked, about 5–7 minutes. If you like, you can add finely chopped onions or bell peppers during this step for extra flavor. Once cooked, drain the excess fat and set the sausage aside.
3. Prepare the Casserole Mixture
In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Add the softened cream cheese and mix until the cream cheese is fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth.
4. Layer the Hashbrowns in the Baking Dish
Spread the thawed hashbrowns evenly across the bottom of your greased baking dish. Use a spatula to flatten them out so they create an even layer.
5. Add the Sausage
Spread the cooked sausage evenly over the hashbrowns, ensuring it’s distributed across the casserole for maximum flavor.
6. Pour the Egg and Cream Cheese Mixture Over the Casserole
Pour the prepared egg and cream cheese mixture over the sausage and hashbrowns. Use a spoon to gently press down on the mixture to help it spread and cover all the ingredients.
7. Top with Cheese
Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. You can use more cheese if you like a cheesier casserole.
8. Bake
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30–35 minutes or until the eggs are fully set, and the top is golden and bubbly.
9. Garnish and Serve
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley for a burst of color and extra flavor. Serve with a side of fresh fruit or toast for a complete breakfast.
Tips for Perfecting Your Sausage, Egg, and Cream Cheese Hashbrown Casserole
1. Customize with Vegetables
You can easily customize this casserole by adding vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or tomatoes. Simply sauté them along with the sausage, or layer them under the sausage before adding the egg mixture.
2. Make It Ahead of Time
This casserole can be assembled the night before and stored in the refrigerator. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. In the morning, simply bake it as directed. This makes it an excellent option for busy mornings or brunch gatherings.
3. Add More Cheese
Feel free to get creative with the cheese. If you want extra flavor, try adding mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack cheese in addition to the cheddar.
4. Use Fresh Sausage
While frozen hashbrowns work great, using fresh sausage from your local butcher or grocery store will elevate the flavor of this casserole.
Why This Recipe is a Crowd-Pleaser
Whether you’re hosting a brunch, preparing a family breakfast, or looking for a simple weekday meal, this Sausage, Egg, and Cream Cheese Hashbrown Casserole is a surefire hit. It’s not only incredibly delicious but also easy to make, and it can be customized to suit everyone’s tastes. With its rich flavors and satisfying ingredients, this casserole will quickly become a favorite in your household.
FAQs About Sausage, Egg, and Cream Cheese Hashbrown Casserole
1. Can I use different types of meat? Yes! You can substitute the breakfast sausage with ground turkey, bacon, or even ham. Just ensure any alternative meats are cooked thoroughly before adding them to the casserole.
2. Can I freeze this casserole? Absolutely! This casserole freezes well. After baking, allow it to cool, then cover tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake in the oven at 350°F for 20–30 minutes, or until hot and bubbly.
3. Can I make this casserole without cream cheese? Yes, you can use sour cream or even a creamy soup base as a substitute for cream cheese if you prefer a lighter version.
4. How do I store leftovers? Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven when ready to serve.
Conclusion
This Sausage, Egg, and Cream Cheese Hashbrown Casserole is the perfect breakfast dish for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a brunch, this easy-to-make recipe will surely impress. With its combination of crispy hashbrowns, savory sausage, and creamy eggs, it’s a meal that’s both satisfying and delicious. So, grab your ingredients, preheat the oven, and get ready to enjoy this hearty breakfast casserole!
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