There’s nothing quite like a hearty breakfast casserole to start your day off right. This Sausage, Egg, and Cream Cheese Hashbrown Casserole is a delightful combination of savory sausage, creamy cheese, and crispy hashbrowns, all baked to perfection. It’s the perfect dish for a family breakfast, brunch gathering, or even meal prep for the week. Follow this easy recipe to create a delicious and satisfying breakfast casserole that everyone will love.
Ingredients:
- 2 lb. Breakfast Sausage Ground
- 16 oz. Cream Cheese, softened to room temperature
- 32 oz. Frozen Hashbrown Potatoes
- 2 cups shredded cheese
- 8 Large Eggs
- 2 cups Milk
- ¼ tsp. Onion Powder
- ¼ tsp. Garlic Powder
- Salt and Pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
2. Cook the Sausage:
- In a large skillet, cook the ground breakfast sausage over medium heat until it is no longer pink. Break it into crumbles as it cooks.
- Once the sausage is fully cooked, drain any excess grease from the skillet.
3. Combine Sausage and Cream Cheese:
- In the same skillet, add the softened cream cheese to the cooked sausage. Stir until the cream cheese is completely melted and well combined with the sausage.
4. Prepare the Hashbrowns:
- In a large bowl, mix the frozen hashbrown potatoes with the shredded cheese. Stir to combine.
- Spread the hashbrown and cheese mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
5. Add Sausage Mixture:
- Spoon the sausage and cream cheese mixture evenly over the top of the hashbrowns and cheese.
6. Prepare the Egg Mixture:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
7. Assemble the Casserole:
- Pour the egg mixture over the sausage, cream cheese, hashbrowns, and cheese in the baking dish.
- Use a spatula to gently press down and ensure the egg mixture is evenly distributed throughout the dish.
8. Bake the Casserole:
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is set.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
- Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy it warm, garnished with your favorite toppings such as chopped green onions, salsa, or hot sauce.
Tips and Variations:
1. Customize the Cheese:
- Feel free to use different types of cheese in this casserole. Sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a spicy pepper jack can add a unique twist to the dish.
2. Add Vegetables:
- For a more nutritious version, consider adding some diced vegetables to the casserole. Bell peppers, onions, and spinach are great additions that will enhance the flavor and add some color.
3. Make It Ahead:
- This casserole is perfect for meal prep. Assemble it the night before, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate it. In the morning, simply bake it as directed.
4. Gluten-Free Option:
- Ensure all your ingredients are gluten-free, especially the hashbrowns and sausage, to make this casserole suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
5. Spicy Kick:
- If you like a bit of heat, consider adding some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the egg mixture.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hashbrowns?
- A: Yes, you can use fresh potatoes. Simply shred them and squeeze out any excess moisture before using them in the recipe.
Q: Can I substitute the breakfast sausage with another type of meat?
- A: Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even a vegetarian sausage can be used as substitutes.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
- A: Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.
Q: Can I freeze this casserole?
- A: Yes, you can freeze the baked casserole. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in aluminum foil and plastic wrap. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Q: What can I serve with this casserole?
- A: This casserole is a meal on its own, but you can serve it with a fresh fruit salad, toast, or a side of sautéed vegetables for a complete breakfast or brunch spread.
Sausage, Egg, and Cream Cheese Hashbrown Casserole is a versatile and delicious dish that is sure to become a family favorite. Its creamy, cheesy, and savory layers make it the perfect comfort food for breakfast or brunch. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or meal prepping for the week, this casserole is easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy the hearty goodness of this casserole, and don’t forget to share the recipe with friends and family!
Enjoy the rich flavors of this Sausage, Egg, and Cream Cheese Hashbrown Casserole and make your mornings special with this delightful breakfast dish!
