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Sausage, Egg, and Cream Cheese Hashbrown Casserole: A Hearty Breakfast Favorite
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Nothing beats a warm, cheesy, and savory breakfast casserole to start your day right! Sausage, Egg, and Cream Cheese Hashbrown Casserole is an all-in-one dish that combines crispy hashbrowns, creamy cheese, fluffy eggs, and savory sausage into a hearty and filling meal. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, meal prep, or holiday gatherings, this recipe is an easy crowd-pleaser that you can make ahead of time!
Why This Casserole is a Must-Try
This breakfast casserole is one of those dishes that brings together the best of breakfast in every bite:
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Savory Sausage – Adds bold flavor and a satisfying texture.
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Creamy Cheese – A combination of cream cheese and cheddar makes it irresistibly rich.
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Crispy Hashbrowns – Provides the perfect crispy base for the casserole.
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Fluffy Eggs – Help bind everything together while making it light and airy.
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Make-Ahead Friendly – Prepare in advance and simply bake when ready.
Whether you’re serving this for a holiday brunch or just need a quick weekday breakfast, this dish is filling, flavorful, and easy to prepare.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this delicious casserole, you’ll need just a handful of simple pantry staples:
Main Ingredients:
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1 lb breakfast sausage (mild or spicy)
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6 large eggs
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8 oz cream cheese, softened
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3 cups frozen hashbrowns (shredded or diced)
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
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½ cup milk
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional Additions:
Want to customize the flavor? Try adding:
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Chopped bell peppers for color and crunch
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Diced onions for added depth
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Spinach or mushrooms for a veggie boost
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Red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1. Preheat & Prep
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. Cook the Sausage
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In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage until browned (about 7-10 minutes).
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Drain any excess grease and set aside.
3. Mix the Eggs & Cream Cheese
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In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
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Add the softened cream cheese and whisk until fully combined.
4. Assemble the Casserole
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In a large bowl, mix the cooked sausage and frozen hashbrowns together.
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Spread the hashbrown mixture evenly into the greased baking dish.
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Pour the egg and cream cheese mixture over the top, making sure it spreads evenly.
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Sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese.
5. Bake to Perfection
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Bake uncovered for 35-40 minutes, or until the center is set and the edges are golden brown.
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Remove from oven and let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Expert Tips for the Best Breakfast Casserole
✔ Use Full-Fat Cream Cheese – It creates the creamiest texture. Low-fat versions may alter the consistency.
✔ Brown the Hashbrowns First – For extra crispiness, pre-cook the hashbrowns before assembling the casserole.
✔ Let it Rest – Allow the casserole to sit for 5-10 minutes after baking to make slicing easier.
✔ Make it Spicy – Use spicy breakfast sausage or add chopped jalapeños for a kick.
Make-Ahead and Storage Instructions
Meal Prep & Make-Ahead Options:
✅ Refrigerate Before Baking – Assemble the casserole the night before, cover, and refrigerate. Bake as usual the next morning.
✅ Freeze for Later – After assembling, cover tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before baking.
✅ Reheat Leftovers – Warm individual slices in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes.
What to Serve with This Casserole
This hearty casserole pairs perfectly with:
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Fresh Fruit Salad – Adds a refreshing contrast.
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Biscuits or Toast – Perfect for soaking up all the cheesy goodness.
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Avocado Slices – A creamy and nutritious side.
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Hot Sauce or Salsa – For an extra burst of flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hashbrowns?
Yes! Simply shred russet potatoes, soak them in water for 15 minutes, drain, and pat them dry before using.
2. Can I substitute the sausage?
Absolutely! Swap it with turkey sausage, chorizo, or even plant-based sausage for a different flavor.
3. How do I prevent a soggy casserole?
Ensure your hashbrowns are dry before assembling, and avoid overmixing the egg mixture.
4. Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes! Cook on LOW for 4-5 hours or HIGH for 2-3 hours until set.
Final Thoughts: A Comforting, Flavor-Packed Breakfast
This Sausage, Egg, and Cream Cheese Hashbrown Casserole is the ultimate comfort food for breakfast lovers! It’s easy to make, packed with savory flavors, and perfect for meal prepping. Whether you’re making it for family gatherings, weekend brunch, or meal prep, this dish will quickly become a favorite.
For more details, visit the full recipe