Sausage, Egg, and Cream Cheese Hashbrown Casserole is a delightful dish that combines hearty breakfast flavors into a single, easy-to-make casserole. This dish is perfect for family breakfasts, brunch parties, or even a comforting dinner. It features savory sausage, creamy cheese, fluffy eggs, and crispy hashbrowns, making it a crowd-pleaser for all ages.
Table of Contents
Why Make This Recipe
There are several reasons to love this casserole recipe. First, it’s simple and requires minimal prep time, making it great for busy mornings. Second, it can feed a crowd, so it’s perfect for gatherings or potlucks. Third, it is customizable; you can add your favorite vegetables or spices to suit your taste. Lastly, it is a delicious way to enjoy classic breakfast ingredients in a new and exciting form.
How to Make Sausage, Egg, and Cream Cheese Hashbrown Casserole
Making this delicious casserole is easier than you might think. Just follow these straightforward steps.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb breakfast sausage
- 1 (30 oz) package frozen hashbrowns
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 6 eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. This step ensures that your casserole will not stick to the dish, making it easier to serve.
Cook the sausage in a skillet over medium heat until browned and crumbled. Make sure to drain any excess grease for a leaner meal. This gives the casserole its main protein punch and a lot of flavor.
Mix the ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked sausage, hashbrowns, cream cheese, eggs, milk, shredded cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to mix everything until well combined. This mixture is what will create the creamy and savory layers in the casserole.
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. This ensures that all parts of the casserole cook evenly.
Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the casserole is set and golden brown on top. The baking time can vary slightly based on your oven, so keep an eye on it!
Cool and serve. Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps it set up a bit more, making it easier to slice and serve. Enjoy!
How to Serve Sausage, Egg, and Cream Cheese Hashbrown Casserole
Serving this casserole is a breeze! You can cut it into squares and serve it warm, directly from the baking dish. It pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit, toast, or a light salad for a balanced meal. For those who enjoy a bit of spice, consider serving salsa or hot sauce on the side for an added kick.
How to Store Sausage, Egg, and Cream Cheese Hashbrown Casserole
If you have leftovers (which is often the case with this filling dish), you can easily store them for later. Allow the casserole to cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store it in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions as needed.
Tips to Make Sausage, Egg, and Cream Cheese Hashbrown Casserole
Fresh Ingredients: While frozen hashbrowns work great, you can also use fresh potatoes. Just shred or dice them and cook them until tender before adding to the mix.
Customize Your Sausage: Try using different types of sausage, like spicy Italian or chicken sausage, for a unique flavor twist.
Add Veggies: Consider adding chopped spinach, bell peppers, or onions to boost the nutritional content and flavor.
Make Ahead: You can prepare the casserole the night before. Just cover it and let it sit in the fridge. In the morning, pop it in the oven when you’re ready to bake.
Variations
This casserole is versatile. You can switch up the cheese, using mozzarella or pepper jack for a different taste. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can replace the cream cheese with Greek yogurt for a lighter touch. For a vegetarian version, omit the sausage and increase the veggies.
Sausage, Egg, and Cream Cheese Hashbrown Casserole
Equipment
- Skillet
- Mixing Bowl
- 9×13 Baking Dish
- Oven
Ingredients
- 1 lb breakfast sausage
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- 6 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 package frozen shredded hashbrowns thawed (about 20 oz)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese divided
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 baking dish and set aside.
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook sausage until browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat.
- Stir cream cheese into the warm sausage until melted and combined. Remove from heat.
- In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, and pepper. Stir in hashbrowns, 1 cup of the cheddar cheese, and the sausage mixture. Mix until fully combined.
- Pour mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Top with remaining 1/2 cup of cheese.
- Bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden brown. Let rest 5–10 minutes before serving.
Notes
FAQs
1. Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hashbrowns?
Yes, you can! Just shred or dice fresh potatoes and cook them until tender before adding to the mix.
2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole the night before and refrigerate it. Just bake it in the morning when you’re ready to serve it.
3. How long can I store the leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days. Make sure to cover the casserole tightly.
4. Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole. Just make sure to let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can last in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw it in the fridge overnight and then bake as directed.
This easy-to-follow recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re treating your family to a wonderful breakfast or serving guests at a special gathering. Enjoy the rich flavors and the comforting texture that this Sausage, Egg, and Cream Cheese Hashbrown Casserole has to offer!
Did You Try This Recipe ?
There are no reviews yet. Be the first one to write one.
