Sausage Egg Cream Cheese Hashbrown Casserole

Here’s the complete recipe for Sausage, Egg, and Cream Cheese Hashbrown Casserole, along with tips to make it perfect every time!

Sausage, Egg, and Cream Cheese Hashbrown Casserole

This hearty breakfast casserole is packed with savory sausage, creamy cream cheese, and golden hashbrowns, making it the perfect dish for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb breakfast sausage (pork, turkey, or plant-based sausage)
  • 1 (30 oz) package frozen hashbrowns (shredded or diced)
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 6 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Dish

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.

Step 2: Cook the Sausage

  1. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage, breaking it into crumbles, until browned and fully cooked.
  2. Drain any excess grease and set the cooked sausage aside to cool slightly.

Step 3: Mix the Ingredients

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked sausage, frozen hashbrowns, cream cheese, eggs, milk, cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper.
  2. Mix until all ingredients are evenly combined.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

  1. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
  2. Spread it out evenly using a spatula to ensure an even bake.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

  1. Bake in the preheated oven for 45–50 minutes, or until the casserole is set and the top is golden brown.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

  1. Let the casserole cool for 5–10 minutes before slicing and serving.
  2. Enjoy this hearty dish on its own or with your favorite breakfast sides!

Here are 30 popular questions and answers about Sausage, Egg, and Cream Cheese Hashbrown Casserole to help you make and customize this delicious dish:

General Recipe Questions

  1. What is hashbrown casserole?
    It’s a hearty, baked dish made with hashbrowns, eggs, sausage, cheese, and cream cheese, perfect for breakfast or brunch.
  2. Can I make this ahead of time?
    Yes! Assemble it the night before, cover, and refrigerate. Bake it fresh the next morning.
  3. Do I need to thaw the hashbrowns?
    Yes, thawing the hashbrowns ensures even cooking and prevents extra moisture in the casserole.
  4. What type of sausage should I use?
    Breakfast sausage, either pork or turkey, works best. Spicy or mild sausage can be used based on preference.
  5. How long does it take to bake?
    Bake at 350°F for 45–50 minutes, or until the casserole is set and golden on top.

Ingredient Substitutions

  1. Can I use fresh potatoes instead of hashbrowns?
    Yes, shred fresh potatoes, rinse and dry them thoroughly before using.
  2. Can I use sausage patties or links?
    Yes, crumble cooked sausage patties or chop sausage links into small pieces.
  3. What cheese works best?
    Cheddar cheese is traditional, but mozzarella, pepper jack, or a Mexican blend also work well.
  4. What can I use instead of cream cheese?
    Substitute with ricotta, cottage cheese, or a creamy cheese spread for a similar texture.
  5. Can I make this vegetarian?
    Yes, omit the sausage and add sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach.

Preparation Questions

  1. Do I need to grease the baking dish?
    Yes, grease the dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
  2. Should I cook the sausage first?
    Absolutely! Cook and crumble the sausage before mixing it into the casserole.
  3. How can I mix the ingredients evenly?
    Use a large mixing bowl and ensure the cream cheese is softened to avoid clumping.
  4. Can I add raw vegetables?
    It’s better to sauté vegetables like peppers or onions first to avoid excess moisture.
  5. Can I use a different size dish?
    A 9×13-inch dish works best, but you can use smaller dishes; adjust baking time accordingly.

Flavor Customizations

  1. How can I make it spicier?
    Use spicy sausage, add red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or hot sauce.
  2. What herbs can I add?
    Fresh parsley, thyme, or chives add a burst of flavor.
  3. Can I add other meats?
    Yes, diced ham, cooked bacon, or shredded chicken are great alternatives or additions.
  4. How can I make it creamier?
    Add a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half to the egg mixture.
  5. Can I top it with breadcrumbs?
    Yes, sprinkle seasoned breadcrumbs or crushed crackers on top for a crunchy finish.

Serving Questions

  1. What should I serve with this casserole?
    Serve with fresh fruit, toast, or a green salad for a complete meal.
  2. Can this be a main dish for dinner?
    Yes! It’s hearty enough to serve as a dinner option with a side of roasted vegetables.
  3. How many servings does this recipe make?
    This recipe serves 6–8 people, depending on portion size.
  4. What toppings work well?
    Add sour cream, salsa, or hot sauce for extra flavor.
  5. Can I serve it cold?
    It’s best served warm, but leftovers can be eaten cold if desired.

Storage and Leftovers

  1. How long can I store leftovers?
    Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  2. Can I freeze the casserole?
    Yes! Bake and cool the casserole, then freeze it for up to 3 months.
  3. How do I reheat leftovers?
    Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the whole casserole in the oven at 350°F.
  4. Can I freeze it before baking?
    Yes, assemble the casserole, cover tightly, and freeze. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.
  5. How do I prevent it from drying out when reheating?
    Cover with foil while reheating in the oven to retain moisture.

These answers should help you create the perfect Sausage, Egg, and Cream Cheese Hashbrown Casserole for any occasion! 🥚🧀✨

 

Here are 30 tips to make your Sausage, Egg, and Cream Cheese Hashbrown Casserole even more decadent and indulgent:

Enhancing Flavor (1–10)

  1. Use flavored sausage: Swap regular sausage for maple, spicy, or Italian sausage for extra depth of flavor.
  2. Add garlic and onions: Sauté minced garlic and diced onions with the sausage for a savory boost.
  3. Incorporate herbs: Mix in fresh chives, thyme, or parsley for aromatic notes.
  4. Season the hashbrowns: Toss the hashbrowns with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, or smoked paprika before mixing.
  5. Use multiple cheeses: Combine cheddar with gouda, mozzarella, or pepper jack for a rich, gooey texture.
  6. Include a hint of mustard: Add a teaspoon of Dijon mustard to the egg mixture for tangy complexity.
  7. Add Worcestershire sauce: Stir a splash into the egg mixture for umami richness.
  8. Mix in hot sauce: Add a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
  9. Include sour cream: Blend in a dollop of sour cream for a tangy, creamy texture.
  10. Sprinkle with nutmeg: A pinch of nutmeg adds warmth and enhances the eggs’ flavor.

Adding Texture (11–20)

  1. Use crispy bacon: Crumble cooked, crispy bacon into the casserole for added crunch.
  2. Incorporate breadcrumbs: Sprinkle buttered breadcrumbs or crushed crackers on top for a golden crust.
  3. Add crunchy vegetables: Include diced bell peppers or sautéed mushrooms for texture.
  4. Use diced ham: Add small cubes of cooked ham for a meaty bite.
  5. Mix in spinach: Fold in fresh or sautéed spinach for a pop of color and nutrients.
  6. Top with fried onions: Sprinkle crispy fried onions on top before baking for a savory crunch.
  7. Include roasted corn: Mix in roasted or grilled corn kernels for a sweet, smoky flavor.
  8. Sprinkle with panko crumbs: Use seasoned panko for an extra crispy topping.
  9. Layer sliced potatoes: Instead of frozen hashbrowns, layer thinly sliced potatoes for a rustic feel.
  10. Add sunflower seeds: Sprinkle toasted sunflower seeds on top for a nutty crunch.

Upgrading the Creaminess (21–25)

  1. Use heavy cream: Replace milk with heavy cream for a richer custard.
  2. Add ricotta cheese: Mix in ricotta for a velvety texture.
  3. Blend in mascarpone: Mascarpone cheese adds an ultra-creamy and luxurious feel.
  4. Use double cream cheese: Add an extra 4 oz of cream cheese for a denser, creamier casserole.
  5. Swirl in queso: Stir in queso dip for an extra cheesy and flavorful layer.

Creative Toppings (26–30)

  1. Drizzle with hollandaise sauce: Serve slices with a drizzle of hollandaise for a brunch-worthy finish.
  2. Sprinkle with truffle salt: Add a touch of truffle salt on top for gourmet decadence.
  3. Top with avocado slices: Garnish with fresh avocado slices or guacamole for creaminess.
  4. Add candied bacon: Top with crumbled candied bacon for a sweet-savory element.
  5. Drizzle with maple syrup: A light drizzle of maple syrup adds a surprising, delicious sweetness.

Bonus Tips:

  • Use a cast iron skillet: Bake the casserole in a cast iron skillet for an evenly baked, crispy edge.
  • Serve with gravy: Pair it with sausage gravy for the ultimate comfort food experience.

By incorporating these tips, your Sausage, Egg, and Cream Cheese Hashbrown Casserole will become the epitome of indulgence, perfect for any special occasion or family gathering! 🥚🧀🥔✨

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