Sausage, Egg, and Cream Cheese Hashbrown Casserole is a delicious and hearty dish that combines the classic flavors of breakfast into a comforting baked meal. This casserole is not only simple to make, but it also brings everyone together at the table. Imagine crispy hash browns, creamy filling, and savory sausage all baked to perfection—it’s a breakfast lover’s dream come true!

Why Make This Recipe

There are plenty of reasons to whip up this Sausage, Egg, and Cream Cheese Hashbrown Casserole. First and foremost, it’s incredibly versatile. Whether you’re serving it for brunch, a holiday gathering, or even a simple weeknight dinner, this casserole fits the bill perfectly.

It’s also an excellent way to feed a crowd without spending hours in the kitchen. With just a few ingredients and steps, you can put together a wholesome dish that will surely please everyone, from kids to adults. Plus, you can easily customize it with different ingredients to suit your taste preferences.

With its creamy texture and savory flavors, this casserole is a meal you’ll want to make again and again.

How to Make Sausage, Egg, and Cream Cheese Hashbrown Casserole

Creating this delicious casserole is a straightforward process that requires minimal prep time. Here’s how to make it at home.

Ingredients

• 1 pound breakfast sausage (pork or turkey)
• 8 ounces cream cheese (softened)
• 1 30-32 oz bag frozen shredded hash browns, thawed
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 8 large eggs
• 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons butter (melted for greasing or drizzling on top)
• Optional garnish: chopped green onions or parsley

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
2. Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the sausage until it’s fully cooked. Be sure to drain any excess fat to keep your casserole from becoming greasy.
3. Add Cream Cheese: Once the sausage is cooked, reduce the heat to low and stir in the softened cream cheese. Allow it to melt and combine with the sausage, creating a creamy mixture. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Assemble the Base: Spread the thawed hash browns evenly in the prepared baking dish. Drizzle with melted butter and lightly sprinkle with salt and pepper.
5. Layer the Sausage Mixture: Spoon the creamy sausage mixture evenly over the hash browns, spreading it out to cover them completely.
6. Add the Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the sausage layer, creating a delicious cheesy topping.
7. Mix the Egg Layer: In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth and well combined.
8. Pour over the Casserole: Slowly pour the egg mixture evenly over all the layers in the baking dish. Gently tap the dish on the counter to help all the ingredients settle.
9. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 40–45 minutes. The casserole is done when the eggs are set, and the top is golden brown.
10. Cool & Serve: Allow the casserole to rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. For a fresh touch, garnish with chopped green onions or parsley if desired.

Pro Tips for Success with Sausage, Egg, and Cream Cheese Hashbrown Casserole

1. Use Thawed Hash Browns: Make sure your frozen hash browns are fully thawed for even cooking. You can leave them overnight in the refrigerator or let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
2. Cream Cheese Temperature: Ensure that your cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easier mixing. You can microwave it in short bursts to soften it quickly, but avoid melting it completely.
3. Customize the Sausage: Feel free to use turkey sausage or a meat alternative if you’re looking to lower the fat content or make this dish suitable for different dietary needs.
4. Don’t Rush the Baking: Allow your casserole to bake long enough to ensure the eggs cook through and the top becomes golden and delicious. The edges should slightly pull away from the dish when it’s fully baked.
5. Let It Rest: Allowing your casserole to cool before slicing helps it hold its shape, making serving easier.
6. Make Ahead: You can assemble the casserole the night before and store it in the refrigerator for an easy breakfast bake the next morning.

Flavor Variations for Sausage, Egg, and Cream Cheese Hashbrown Casserole

1. Add Veggies: Enhance your casserole by adding sautéed bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms. These can be mixed into the sausage or layered with the hash browns.
2. Use Different Cheeses: Swap out the cheddar cheese for a blend of your favorites. Consider using Monterey Jack, pepper jack for a little kick, or a blend of Italian cheeses for extra flavor.
3. Spice it Up: Add some heat by incorporating diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper into the egg mixture. You could also serve it with a side of hot sauce for extra flavor.
4. Seasoned Hash Browns: Try using seasoned hash browns for added flavor. This could save you time on seasoning the layers on your own.
5. Herbal Infusion: Mix in some fresh herbs, such as chives, basil, or thyme, for a fresh and aromatic touch. Herbs can elevate the overall flavor profile significantly.

Serving Suggestions for Sausage, Egg, and Cream Cheese Hashbrown Casserole

Enjoy your casserole as a complete meal, but feel free to add some sides to make it even more filling.

1. Fresh Fruit: Serve fresh fruit on the side for a refreshing contrast. Fruits like berries, melons, or citrus zest balance out the richness of the casserole beautifully.
2. Toast or Muffins: Pair the casserole with toasted bagels or muffins to round out your breakfast spread.
3. Beverages: Complement your meal with a side of orange juice, coffee, or even mimosas for a brunch gathering.
4. Salad: A light mixed green salad with a vinaigrette can add a refreshing element to this meal when served for brunch.

Storage and Freezing Instructions for Sausage, Egg, and Cream Cheese Hashbrown Casserole

If you find yourself with leftovers, no need to worry; this casserole stores well!

1. Refrigerator Storage: Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing it. Cover it tightly and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
2. Freezing Instructions: You can freeze the casserole before baking it. Simply cover it with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, ensuring it’s well-sealed. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before baking it as instructed.
3. Reheating: To reheat leftovers, simply microwave individual portions or place the entire casserole back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

| Nutrient | Amount |
|———–|—————|
| Calories | 380 |
| Protein | 23g |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Fat | 22g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sodium | 650mg |

FAQ About Sausage, Egg, and Cream Cheese Hashbrown Casserole

Can I use fresh hash browns instead of frozen?

Yes, you can use fresh hash browns! If you go this route, make sure they are well-drained to eliminate excess moisture, as that can make the casserole too soggy.

Is it possible to make this casserole vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can omit the sausage and replace it with sautéed vegetables such as mushrooms, bell peppers, and spinach. For the cream cheese, you can substitute it with a non-dairy cream cheese to keep it vegan.

How can I tell when the casserole is done?

You can tell the casserole is done when the eggs have set (no longer jiggly) and the top is a beautiful golden brown. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean to indicate that it’s fully cooked.

Can I scale this recipe for a smaller or larger group?

Yes! You can easily adjust the ingredient quantities to fit your needs. For a smaller version, cut the ingredients in half; for larger gatherings, double the recipe and use a larger baking dish.

How long should I bake the casserole if I made it in advance?

If you prepare the casserole in advance and it’s chilled from the refrigerator, you may need to add an extra 10-15 minutes to the bake time. It’s best to check for doneness periodically until it’s cooked through.

Final Thoughts

The Sausage, Egg, and Cream Cheese Hashbrown Casserole is a fantastic recipe that offers warmth, comfort, and delightful flavors. It’s perfect for busy mornings or special gatherings where you need a hearty dish that everyone will enjoy. Plus, with so many opportunities to customize it, you can make it your own each time you prepare it. Give this recipe a try, and you may just find it becoming your go-to breakfast or brunch dish!

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