Sausage Egg and Cream Cheese Hashbrown Casserole Recipe

If you’re searching for the ultimate comfort breakfast that feels like a warm hug on a plate, look no further than this Sausage Egg and Cream Cheese Hashbrown Casserole Recipe. It’s a glorious layering of savory breakfast sausage, creamy whipped cream cheese, fluffy eggs, crispy hashbrowns, and melty cheddar cheese baked to golden perfection. Every bite offers a harmony of textures and rich flavors that’s bound to become your new weekend favorite or Christmas morning staple. This dish is not just straightforward to make, it fills your kitchen with the most inviting aromas and guarantees happy smiles around the table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this casserole is how simple the ingredients are, yet how each one brings something special to the table. From the hearty sausage adding savory depth to the luscious cream cheese that creates a smooth, indulgent texture, these staples come together to create something truly spectacular.

• Breakfast sausage (1 pound): Use your favorite variety for a savory, flavorful base that cooks up crumbly and delicious.
• Cream cheese, softened (8 ounces): This adds a rich creaminess that ties all the ingredients together.
• Large eggs (8): Eggs provide structure and a fluffy texture, balancing the richness.
• Milk (1 cup): Helps to create a luscious custard that soaks into the hashbrowns perfectly.
• Shredded cheddar cheese (2 cups): A sharp and melty topping that browns beautifully during baking.
• Shredded hashbrowns, thawed and dried (4 cups): The crispy base that delivers a satisfying bite in every forkful.
• Salt (1 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors without overpowering.
• Black pepper (½ teaspoon): Adds just a bit of warmth and depth.
• Chopped parsley (1 tablespoon, optional): A fresh pop of green that makes the dish look as good as it tastes.

How to Make Sausage Egg and Cream Cheese Hashbrown Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and lightly grease a 9 by 13-inch baking dish. This ensures the casserole won’t stick and allows for an easy release later on. Setting up your workspace first always helps the cooking flow.

Step 2: Cook the Sausage

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage until it’s nicely browned and crumbly. Draining any excess fat keeps the dish from becoming greasy while preserving that robust sausage flavor.

Step 3: Combine Sausage and Cream Cheese

With the sausage still warm, stir in the softened cream cheese until the mixture is smooth and well combined. The warmth helps the cream cheese melt into a luscious, creamy coating that will bind the casserole ingredients beautifully.

Step 4: Whisk the Egg Mixture

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and black pepper until fully blended. This custardy mixture will soak into the hashbrowns and sausage layers, creating that irresistible fluffy texture you crave.

Step 5: Layer the Hashbrowns

Evenly spread the thawed and patted dry hashbrowns across the bottom of your prepared baking dish. This forms a hearty, crispy foundation that contrasts so nicely with the creamy top layers.

Step 6: Add Sausage and Cream Cheese Layer

Spread your sausage and cream cheese mixture evenly over the hashbrowns, making sure every bite will have a bit of that heavenly combination.

Step 7: Pour Egg Mixture Over

Gently pour the whisked egg mixture over the layered hashbrowns and sausage, letting it seep through evenly. This step is crucial for turning the dish into a cohesive casserole that holds together perfectly.

Step 8: Top with Cheddar Cheese

Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese liberally on top. This will melt into a golden, bubbly crust during baking, adding a sharp, savory finish.

Step 9: Bake to Perfection

Bake the casserole uncovered for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the center is fully set and the top is beautifully golden brown. You’ll know it’s ready when it jiggles slightly but holds together.

Step 10: Rest and Garnish

Let the casserole cool for about 5 to 10 minutes before slicing. This resting time lets everything firm up a bit. If you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle chopped parsley on top for a fresh and colorful touch before serving.

How to Serve Sausage Egg and Cream Cheese Hashbrown Casserole Recipe

Garnishes

A simple sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a lovely bright burst of color and a mild herbaceous note that balances all the rich flavors in this casserole.

Side Dishes

This casserole shines on its own but pairs wonderfully with crisp fruit salad, juicy orange slices, or even sautéed greens. Light, fresh sides help to cut through the indulgence and create a well-rounded meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a brunch gathering, try baking the casserole in individual ramekins for personal portions. Another fun idea is to top it with sliced avocado or a dollop of sour cream and chives for extra richness and flair.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover portions can be stored airtight in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This casserole reheats beautifully and keeps all its creamy, cheesy goodness intact.

Freezing

You can freeze individual servings or the entire casserole in a tightly sealed container for up to 2 months. Defrost overnight in the fridge for best results before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. Microwaving works too, but the oven helps retain that crispy cheddar top and ideal texture.

FAQs

Can I use turkey or chicken sausage instead of breakfast sausage?

Absolutely! Turkey or chicken sausage will work just fine and reduce the fat content for a lighter casserole, while still delivering plenty of delicious flavor.

Do I have to use cream cheese, or can I substitute it?

Cream cheese gives this casserole its creamy texture and tangy flavor, but you could substitute with ricotta or mascarpone for a slightly different, yet still luscious, outcome.

Can I prepare this casserole the night before?

Yes! You can assemble it the night before, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it is cooked through.

What’s the best type of hashbrowns to use?

Frozen shredded hashbrowns that’s fully thawed and patted dry work best because they absorb the custard mixture without becoming soggy, giving you a perfect crispy inside and outside texture.

Is this casserole suitable for freezing and reheating?

Definitely! This Sausage Egg and Cream Cheese Hashbrown Casserole Recipe freezes well and can be reheated without losing any of its wonderful flavors or textures, making it a great meal prep option.

Final Thoughts

This Sausage Egg and Cream Cheese Hashbrown Casserole Recipe is such a fantastic, crowd-pleasing dish that’s sure to become a beloved staple in your breakfast or brunch rotation. Thanks to its simple ingredients and comforting layers of flavor, it’s a recipe worth making again and again. Give it a try soon—you might just find your new favorite way to start the day!

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