Sausage, Egg, and Cream Cheese Hashbrown Casserole

This hearty breakfast casserole has become my weekend staple whenever I'm hosting family or friends for brunch. The combination of savory sausage, fluffy eggs, and creamy cheese layered with crispy hashbrowns creates the ultimate comfort food that disappears within minutes at the table.

I first made this casserole when my in-laws surprised us with an overnight visit. Now it's requested at every family gathering, and I've been asked for the recipe countless times.

Ingredients

• Breakfast sausage: Provides the savory foundation choose quality pork sausage for best flavor
• Large eggs: Create the fluffy structure farm fresh adds richer color and taste
• Cream cheese: Softened to room temperature delivers unmatched creaminess throughout
• Frozen hashbrowns: Save time without sacrificing taste look for ones without added seasonings
• Cheddar cheese: Forms that perfect golden crust sharp varieties add more flavor depth
• Milk: Helps create the custard like texture whole milk recommended for richness
• Salt and pepper: Ensure proper seasoning adjust to your preference

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare Your Oven:

Preheat your oven to 350°F and thoroughly grease your baking dish. This temperature allows for even cooking without burning the edges, while proper greasing ensures easy serving later.

Brown The Sausage:

Cook the breakfast sausage in a large skillet over medium heat for about 7 to 10 minutes. Break it into small crumbles as it cooks for even distribution throughout the casserole. Make sure to drain excess grease to prevent a soggy casserole.

Create The Egg Mixture:

Whisk the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper together until completely combined and slightly frothy. This incorporates air for a fluffier texture. The milk adds richness and helps extend the eggs.

Incorporate Cream Cheese:

Add the softened cream cheese to your egg mixture and whisk vigorously until smooth with no visible lumps. This step creates pockets of creamy goodness throughout the finished casserole.

Combine Main Components:

Stir the cooked sausage and frozen hashbrowns into your egg and cream cheese mixture. The cold hashbrowns help cool the warm sausage, preventing the eggs from cooking prematurely.

Assemble And Top:

Pour your mixture into the prepared baking dish, using a spatula to spread it evenly to all corners. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar evenly across the top for that perfect golden crust.

Bake To Perfection:

Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, looking for golden brown edges and a set center. The casserole should be slightly jiggly in the middle but not wet or runny.

Rest Before Serving:

Allow the casserole to rest for at least 5 minutes before serving. This gives the eggs time to fully set and makes for cleaner, more attractive portions.

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The cream cheese is absolutely non-negotiable in this recipe. I once tried making it without when I realized I was out, and while still good, it lacked that distinctive creamy texture that makes this casserole truly special. My daughter always helps add the cream cheese and calls it the "magic ingredient."

Make-Ahead Magic

This casserole is perfect for prepping the night before. Simply follow all steps until baking, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, remove from the fridge while your oven preheats, then bake as directed, adding about 5-10 extra minutes to the cooking time. The flavors actually develop more complexity when the ingredients have time to meld together.

Endless Variations

The basic recipe is just a starting point for endless customization. Try adding sautéed bell peppers and onions for added flavor and color. Swap the sausage for bacon or ham. Experiment with different cheese combinations like pepper jack for heat or Swiss for a nutty flavor. My family loves when I add a handful of chopped spinach for extra nutrition without changing the comfort food appeal.

Serving Suggestions

While delicious on its own, this casserole pairs beautifully with fresh fruit for brightness, crispy bacon for extra indulgence, or a simple green salad if served for brunch or dinner. For an elegant presentation, garnish with fresh herbs like chives or parsley just before serving. I often serve this with a selection of hot sauces on the side so everyone can customize their portion.

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This casserole is pure comfort food, perfect for any occasion. Give it a try, and it may just become your go-to recipe too!

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use fresh hashbrowns instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh hashbrowns can be used. Ensure they are shredded and lightly patted dry to remove excess moisture.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole the night before, cover, and refrigerate. Bake it fresh in the morning.

→ Can I substitute the sausage with another protein?

Yes, you can use cooked bacon, diced ham, or even ground turkey as an alternative to sausage.

→ How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Ensure the sausage and hashbrowns you use are labeled gluten-free to accommodate dietary needs.

→ What other cheeses work well for this dish?

Aside from cheddar, you can try mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend of your favorite cheeses.