Sausage & Cream Cheese Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole Recipe is a delightful way to start your day! This dish combines the savory goodness of sausage with creamy cheese and crispy hash browns, all baked harmoniously together. This casserole is not just tasty; it’s also easy to prepare and perfect for family gatherings or weekend brunches. You’ll love how simple it is to whip up a filling meal that everyone will enjoy.
What is Sausage & Cream Cheese Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole?
This casserole is a rich and hearty breakfast option. It features layers of crispy hash browns, tasty sausage, and creamy cream cheese, all baked to perfection. The result is a dish that is both comforting and satisfying.
Why This Recipe is a Must-Try
- Quick and Easy: With a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a delicious breakfast ready in no time.
- Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is perfect for serving a group. It’s filling and flavorful, so everyone will be happy.
- Customizable: You can add your favorite veggies or spices to make it your own.
Ingredients for Sausage & Cream Cheese Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole Recipe
- Main Ingredients
- 1 package of frozen hash browns (about 30 oz, shredded or cubed)
- 1 lb of breakfast sausage (pork, turkey, or chicken)
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 6 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: chopped green onions or bell peppers for extra flavor
- For Topping (optional)
- Extra cheddar cheese for more cheesiness
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Equipment You’ll Need
- A large mixing bowl
- A skillet or frying pan
- A 9×13 inch baking dish
- Whisk
- Spatula
How to Make Sausage & Cream Cheese Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole
Prepare the Sausage
- Cook the Sausage: Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Crumble the sausage into the skillet and cook until browned. Make sure to stir occasionally. This should take around 5 to 7 minutes.
- Drain Excess Fat: Once the sausage is cooked, drain any excess fat to avoid a greasy casserole.
Mix the Base
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add softened cream cheese, milk, eggs, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk until the mixture is smooth.
- Add Sausage: Fold in the cooked sausage into the mixture until evenly distributed.
Assemble the Casserole
- Layer Hash Browns: Spread half of the frozen hash browns evenly on the bottom of your baking dish.
- Add Mixture: Pour the sausage and cream cheese mixture over the hash browns. Spread it evenly for consistent cooking.
- Top with Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top. If you want extra flavor, you can add some chopped green onions or bell peppers.
Finish with Remaining Hash Browns
- Layer Remaining Hash Browns: Carefully add the remaining hash browns on top of the cheese. This creates a delicious golden layer when baked.
Bake
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and allow it to preheat.
- Bake the Casserole: Place your baking dish in the oven. Bake for about 45-50 minutes or until the casserole is set in the center and the top is golden brown.
Serve and Enjoy
- Cool and Slice: Let the casserole cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. This makes serving easier.
- Garnish: If desired, top with chopped parsley or more green onions for freshness.
Tips for the Best Sausage & Cream Cheese Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole
- Use Fresh Ingredients: While frozen hash browns work well, fresh potatoes can give even better texture.
- Add Veggies: Feel free to mix in diced bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition.
- Spice It Up: If you enjoy a little kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Make Ahead: This casserole can be prepared the night before and stored in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it.
How to Serve
Ready to serve this lovely casserole? Here are some ideas for serving:
- Pair with Fresh Fruit: A side of fresh fruit or a fruit salad complements the rich flavors nicely.
- Serve with Salsa or Hot Sauce: Adding a dollop of salsa or your favorite hot sauce can enhance the flavor.
- Accompany with Coffee or Juice: Enjoy with a hot cup of coffee or a refreshing glass of orange juice for a complete breakfast experience.
Storage Tips
- Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days.
- Reheating: To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes or until warmed through.
- Freezing: This casserole can also be frozen. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil before storing it in an airtight container. It should be good for up to three months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and then bake until heated through.
Variations of Sausage & Cream Cheese Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute sausage with your favorite plant-based sausage or skip it entirely.
- Different Cheeses: Try swapping out cheddar for mozzarella or pepper jack for different flavors.
- Add Eggs: Consider whisking in an extra egg to make it even fluffier.
Nutritional Benefits
This casserole offers several nutritional benefits:
- Protein-Rich: It’s packed with protein from eggs and sausage, which helps keep you full longer.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Adding veggies contributes essential vitamins and minerals.
- Energy-Boosting: The carbs from hash browns provide energy to fuel your morning.
Sausage & Cream Cheese Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole Recipe is a hearty dish that is easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying. With its cheesy goodness and savory sausage, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or a regular weekend breakfast, everyone will be reaching for seconds.