If you’re looking for a hearty, comforting dish that brings together savory sausage, creamy eggs, and melt-in-your-mouth cream cheese into one delicious breakfast sensation, then the Sausage, Egg, and Cream Cheese Hashbrown Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. This casserole is a perfect morning crowd-pleaser, combining crispy hashbrowns with a rich blend of flavors and textures that will keep everyone coming back for more. Whether it’s for a weekend brunch or a special occasion breakfast, this dish warms the heart and fuels the day in the best way possible.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t let the simplicity of these ingredients fool you—each one plays a vital role in delivering the lusciousness and balance that make this casserole a standout. From the savory sausage to the creamy cheese, the mix of textures and flavors creates something truly irresistible.
- 1 pound breakfast sausage: Choose pork or turkey for your preferred level of richness and spice that forms the flavor base.
- 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened: Provides a velvety creaminess that binds the casserole together perfectly.
- 6 large eggs: The essential protein that adds a fluffy, tender structure.
- 1/2 cup milk: Lightens the egg mixture to keep the casserole moist and soft.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Gives a gentle aromatic punch without overpowering.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Adds subtle sweetness to deepen flavor layers.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that elevate every bite.
- 3 cups frozen shredded hashbrowns, thawed: Crispy edges and tender centers bring texture and heartiness.
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp and melty, the cheese tops and fills the dish with a perfect savory finish.
- Nonstick spray or butter for greasing pan: Prevents sticking and adds a touch of golden crunch on the edges.
How to Make Sausage, Egg, and Cream Cheese Hashbrown Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Sausage and Cream Cheese Mixture
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure easy removal later. Cook the sausage in a skillet over medium heat, breaking it apart until it’s browned and fully cooked. Once done, drain any excess fat so the casserole doesn’t turn greasy. Lower the heat and stir in the softened cream cheese, allowing it to melt and coat the sausage beautifully. Set this savory mixture aside—it’s the creamy heart of the recipe!
Step 2: Mix the Egg and Hashbrown Base
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until everything is well combined. This seasoning blend infuses every bite with nuanced flavor. Next, fold in the thawed shredded hashbrowns and 1 cup of cheddar cheese. The hashbrowns bring crisp texture while the cheese starts melting into the mix, offering a luscious bite after baking.
Step 3: Combine and Pour
Gently fold the warm sausage and cream cheese mixture into your egg and hashbrown batter, ensuring everything is evenly distributed. Spread this delicious blend into the prepared baking dish, smoothing the surface so it bakes evenly. Top with the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, which will brown on top for that irresistible golden crust.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the center is set (no longer jiggly) and the top boasts a beautifully golden brown color. Let it cool for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing—this waiting game lets it firm up, so every slice holds together with ease.
How to Serve Sausage, Egg, and Cream Cheese Hashbrown Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes can brighten up this rich casserole beautifully. Try sprinkling chopped green onions or fresh parsley for a pop of color and a mild, fresh taste that balances the dish’s richness. A dollop of sour cream or hot sauce on the side can also add an exciting tangy or spicy note.
Side Dishes
Serve this casserole alongside fresh fruit salad or roasted vegetables for a complete breakfast plate. Crisp bacon or lightly sautéed greens like spinach or kale complement it nicely, creating a hearty yet balanced meal that feels special but is simple to assemble.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn this classic casserole into a brunch centerpiece by serving it in individual ramekins or muffin tins for perfectly portioned servings. This also gives those extra crispy edges everyone loves! You can also layer it into a breakfast buffet alongside bagels and spreads for a fun self-serve experience at gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover casserole lasts well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it a perfect make-ahead option for busy mornings. Reheat slices gently to maintain that soft, creamy texture without drying out.
Freezing
If you want to save time on future breakfasts, this casserole freezes beautifully. Wrap individual portions or the whole dish tightly in foil and plastic wrap, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15 to 20 minutes covered with foil to prevent drying. Alternatively, microwave on medium power in 30-second intervals, stirring or turning to heat evenly without losing that luscious creaminess.
FAQs
Can I use turkey sausage instead of pork?
Absolutely! Turkey sausage offers a leaner alternative that still provides plenty of flavor and works wonderfully in the Sausage, Egg, and Cream Cheese Hashbrown Casserole Recipe. Just be sure to season it well if the turkey sausage is bland.
Is it possible to add vegetables to this casserole?
Yes, vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or green onions can add freshness, color, and nutrition. Just sauté them lightly before mixing into the casserole to avoid excess moisture that could affect the texture.
Can I prepare this casserole the night before?
You can definitely prep everything the night before and refrigerate it covered. In the morning, simply bake it fresh—this makes it perfect for busy weekday breakfasts or special brunches.
What cheese works best if I don’t have cheddar?
While cheddar is classic for its sharpness and meltability, you can substitute Monterey Jack, Colby, or even a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan for a different but equally delicious flavor profile.
How do I know when the casserole is fully cooked?
Look for a set center that isn’t jiggly and a golden-brown top. You can also insert a toothpick or knife in the middle—if it comes out clean or with only a few moist crumbs, it’s ready to enjoy.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so wonderfully satisfying about the Sausage, Egg, and Cream Cheese Hashbrown Casserole Recipe that makes mornings feel special. It’s hearty, rich, and surprisingly easy to prepare, making it a fantastic go-to for feeding a family or impressing brunch guests. Once you try it, you’ll understand why it quickly becomes a treasured favorite worth making again and again.
Print
Sausage, Egg, and Cream Cheese Hashbrown Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6–8 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A hearty and comforting breakfast casserole featuring savory sausage, creamy melted cream cheese, fluffy eggs, and crispy hashbrowns, all baked to golden perfection and topped with cheddar cheese. Perfect for a make-ahead breakfast that serves a crowd with rich flavors and satisfying texture.
Ingredients
Meat and Dairy
- 1 pound breakfast sausage (pork or turkey)
- 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
- 6 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
Vegetables and Seasonings
- 3 cups frozen shredded hashbrowns, thawed
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Other
- Nonstick spray or butter for greasing pan
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare pan: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray or butter to prevent sticking.
- Cook the sausage: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage until browned and fully cooked, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks. Once done, drain any excess fat to remove grease.
- Melt cream cheese with sausage: Lower the heat to low and add the softened cream cheese to the cooked sausage. Stir continuously until the cream cheese is fully melted and combined, creating a creamy sausage mixture. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Mix eggs and seasonings: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth and well combined.
- Add hashbrowns and cheese: Stir the thawed hashbrowns and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese into the egg mixture, folding gently to mix evenly.
- Combine sausage mixture: Fold the creamy sausage and melted cream cheese mixture into the hashbrown and egg mixture until all ingredients are evenly combined.
- Assemble casserole: Pour the combined mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it evenly and sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top for a cheesy crust.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the casserole is set in the center and the top turns golden brown.
- Cool and serve: Allow the casserole to cool for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing and serving to let it set perfectly.
Notes
- This casserole can be prepared the night before and baked fresh in the morning for convenience.
- Add diced bell peppers, chopped green onions, or fresh spinach to the mixture before baking for extra flavor and color.
- For a spicy variation, use spicy breakfast sausage, or replace sausage with cooked bacon instead.
