Sausage, Egg, and Cream Cheese Hashbrown Casserole

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Why You Will Love This Recipe

You will love this recipe for its simplicity and rich flavor. It’s a one-dish wonder that requires minimal prep time and can feed a crowd. The combination of savory sausage, creamy cheese, and crispy hashbrowns creates a satisfying meal that is both comforting and indulgent. Plus, it’s versatile! You can easily customize it with your favorite add-ins, making it a perfect recipe for any occasion.

Introduction

Breakfast is often touted as the most important meal of the day, and what better way to start your morning than with a warm, cheesy casserole? This Sausage, Egg, and Cream Cheese Hashbrown Casserole is a crowd-pleaser that brings together all your breakfast favorites in one delicious dish. Whether you’re hosting a brunch for friends or looking for an easy weekday breakfast, this casserole is a fantastic choice. With layers of crispy hashbrowns, savory sausage, and creamy cheese, each bite is a delightful combination of flavors and textures.

The beauty of this recipe lies not only in its taste but also in its convenience. You can prepare it in advance, making it ideal for busy mornings. Simply pop it in the oven, and you’ll have a delicious breakfast ready to serve in no time. Let’s dive into the details of creating this scrumptious casserole!

Ingredients:

For the Casserole:

  • 30 oz frozen shredded hashbrowns (thawed and drained)
  • 1 lb breakfast sausage (mild or spicy, depending on your preference)
  • 8 large eggs
  • 1 cup milk (whole milk or half-and-half for extra richness)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper (to taste)
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 8 oz cream cheese (cut into small cubes)

Optional Add-Ins:

  • 1 cup diced bell peppers
  • 1 cup chopped onions
  • 1 cup cooked bacon bits
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (for a spicy kick)

Preparation:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Cook the Sausage
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage until browned and crumbled. Drain excess grease and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Egg Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Spread half of the thawed hashbrowns evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle half of the cooked sausage over the hashbrowns, followed by half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Scatter the cream cheese cubes evenly over the top. Repeat the layers: add the remaining hashbrowns, sausage, and cheddar cheese.

Step 5: Pour the Egg Mixture
Slowly pour the egg mixture over the layered ingredients, ensuring it seeps down into all the nooks and crannies. Use a spatula to gently press down and help distribute the liquid evenly.

Step 6: Bake the Casserole
Bake in the preheated oven for 45–50 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown. If the top begins to brown too quickly, cover loosely with aluminum foil.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Let the casserole cool for 5–10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy the cheesy, savory goodness!

Serving Suggestions:

This casserole pairs beautifully with fresh fruit, a light salad, or even some crispy toast. You can also serve it with a dollop of salsa or a drizzle of hot sauce for an extra kick. For a complete breakfast experience, consider serving it alongside freshly brewed coffee or a refreshing fruit smoothie.

Tips:

  • Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare this casserole the night before. Simply assemble the casserole, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. In the morning, remove it from the fridge and bake as directed.
  • Customization: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or meats to the mixture, such as spinach, mushrooms, or ham, to personalize the dish to your taste.
  • Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Nutritional Information (per serving):
Calories: 400
Protein: 22g
Sodium: 800mg

Conclusion

This Sausage, Egg, and Cream Cheese Hashbrown Casserole is a delicious and satisfying dish that is perfect for any breakfast or brunch gathering. With its hearty ingredients and creamy texture, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. The best part? It’s easy to prepare and can be customized to suit your taste preferences. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a delightful breakfast that everyone will love!

Questions and Answers:

  1. Can I use fresh hashbrowns instead of frozen?
    Yes, you can use fresh shredded potatoes. Just make sure to cook them slightly before assembling the casserole to ensure they are tender.
  2. What can I substitute for cream cheese?
    If you want a lighter option, you can substitute the cream cheese with Greek yogurt or cottage cheese for a similar creamy texture.
  3. Can this recipe be made vegetarian?
    Absolutely! Simply omit the sausage and add more vegetables such as mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini for a delicious vegetarian version.
  4. How do I store leftovers?
    Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.
  5. Can I freeze this casserole?
    Yes, you can freeze the assembled casserole before baking. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.

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