If you’re anything like me and love a hearty, comforting breakfast that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Sausage, Egg, and Cream Cheese Hashbrown Casserole Recipe is going to become your new go-to. It’s a glorious blend of spicy Italian sausage, velvety cream cheese, fluffy eggs, and crispy hashbrowns baked to golden perfection with luscious melted cheese on top. Every bite offers a satisfying mix of creamy, savory, and crunchy textures that make it perfect for lazy weekend brunches or a crowd-pleasing holiday breakfast. Let me walk you through how to make this ultimate breakfast casserole that’s as easy as it is delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe brilliantly balances simple ingredients that you might already have in your fridge or freezer, but each one plays an important role in making the flavors pop and textures stand out. From the spicy sausage that adds depth, to the cream cheese which brings luxurious creaminess, every item is essential for this unforgettable dish.
- 30 oz frozen hashbrowns: The crispy potato base that soaks up all the savory goodness while adding a satisfying bite.
- 1 lb spicy Italian sausage: Adds bold, flavorful heat and a meaty richness that lifts the entire casserole.
- 6 large eggs: Bind everything together into a fluffy, tender custard that sets when baked.
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened): Provides creamy decadence and a subtle tang that balances the spices.
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar & mozzarella blend): Melts perfectly for a golden, gooey top and extra cheesy layers inside.
- 1/2 cup milk: Lightens the texture making the casserole moist without being heavy.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Simple seasonings that enhance all the other flavors.
How to Make Sausage, Egg, and Cream Cheese Hashbrown Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures everything cooks evenly from the moment you pop your casserole in. Lightly grease a large baking dish with cooking spray or butter—this will prevent sticking and help develop a beautifully crisp edge on the hashbrowns.
Step 2: Brown the Sausage
Next, heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the Italian sausage until it’s browned and crumbled. This step is key because browning develops rich, savory flavors you want to infuse throughout the casserole. Once cooked, drain the excess fat so your casserole stays perfectly moist but not greasy.
Step 3: Mix the Casserole Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the cooked sausage with the frozen hashbrowns (no need to thaw!), softened cream cheese, eggs, milk, and a pinch of salt and pepper. The cream cheese might seem unusual for breakfast casseroles, but it creates a silky texture that keeps every bite luxurious and creamy. Stir everything together thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
Step 4: Add the Cheese
Fold in half of your shredded cheddar and mozzarella blend into the mixture. This ensures cheesy pockets throughout the casserole while reserving some cheese to melt beautifully on top and form a golden crust.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese on top for that irresistible browned finish. Bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the edges are golden and crispy, and the center is fully set. Your kitchen will fill with an intoxicating aroma that promises pure comfort.
How to Serve Sausage, Egg, and Cream Cheese Hashbrown Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh garnishes brings brightness and a pop of color to this rich casserole. Try scattering chopped fresh parsley or chives on top for a clean, herbaceous contrast. A dollop of sour cream or even slices of ripe avocado can add a lovely creamy finish that complements the savory flavors beautifully.
Side Dishes
This hearty casserole pairs wonderfully with simple sides to round out your meal. Consider fresh fruit salad or a light green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette to contrast the richness. Crispy bacon or sausage links make it a mega meat-lover’s feast, while buttered toast or warm biscuits soak up every bit of cheesy goodness.
Creative Ways to Present
You can make this sausage, egg, and cream cheese hashbrown casserole recipe visually stunning by serving it in individual ramekins or mini cast iron skillets. This not only looks charming for brunch gatherings but keeps each portion perfectly warm. For a fun twist, bake it inside a hollowed-out bread bowl or serve alongside a DIY breakfast taco bar.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This casserole saves beautifully, making it ideal for busy mornings. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When packed tightly, flavors meld even more, so second servings taste just as fantastic.
Freezing
You can freeze this casserole either before or after baking. To freeze raw, assemble it in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed. If freezing leftovers, let the casserole cool completely, then place it in a freezer bag or container for up to 3 months.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F until warmed through to maintain that crisp top. Alternatively, microwave individual portions on medium power for a couple of minutes, though you might miss some of the bake’s original crunch. For frozen casseroles, reheat covered with foil to avoid drying, then uncover near the end for a golden finish.
FAQs
Can I use other types of sausage in this recipe?
Absolutely! While spicy Italian sausage packs a flavorful punch, you can swap it for mild Italian, breakfast sausage, or even turkey sausage depending on your preference. Just adjust the seasoning if needed.
Do I have to use frozen hashbrowns or can I use fresh potatoes?
Frozen hashbrowns are a fantastic shortcut because they’re already shredded and often pre-cooked, saving time. If using fresh potatoes, shred and dry them thoroughly to avoid excess moisture, then sauté briefly before mixing to achieve the best texture.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Simply replace the sausage with sautéed mushrooms, diced bell peppers, or plant-based sausage alternatives. The cream cheese and eggs still provide rich creaminess and protein.
Can I prepare this casserole the night before?
You can mix all the ingredients and assemble the casserole in the dish, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time since it will be cold from the fridge.
What cheese works best if I don’t have cheddar and mozzarella?
Monterey Jack, Colby, or even a mild Swiss cheese can work well. The key is using cheeses that melt smoothly for that gooey, satisfying texture.
Final Thoughts
This Sausage, Egg, and Cream Cheese Hashbrown Casserole Recipe isn’t just a meal, it’s a memorable experience packed with flavor and satisfying textures. It’s straightforward enough for a weeknight breakfast yet special enough for holidays or brunch guests. Trust me, once you make it, you’ll find yourself reaching for it again and again to start your day on the coziest and most delicious note imaginable.
Print
Sausage, Egg, and Cream Cheese Hashbrown Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Breakfast Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A hearty and comforting Sausage, Egg, and Cream Cheese Hashbrown Casserole perfect for breakfast or brunch. This casserole combines crispy hashbrowns, savory spicy Italian sausage, creamy eggs, and rich cream cheese, all topped with melted cheddar and mozzarella for a cheesy, satisfying dish.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 30 oz frozen hashbrowns
- 1 lb spicy Italian sausage
- 6 large eggs
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar & mozzarella blend)
- 1/2 cup milk
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Grease a large baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking and help with easy cleanup.
- Cook Sausage: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the spicy Italian sausage until browned and crumbly, ensuring it is fully cooked and flavorful.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked sausage, frozen hashbrowns, softened cream cheese, eggs, milk, salt, and pepper. Mix all ingredients thoroughly to create a uniform mixture.
- Add Cheese: Stir in half of the shredded cheddar and mozzarella blend into the mixture for melted cheesy goodness throughout the casserole.
- Assemble Casserole: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese on top for a golden, cheesy crust.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is set in the middle. Remove and let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute spicy Italian sausage with mild sausage or turkey sausage based on preference.
- Let the cream cheese soften at room temperature before mixing to ensure smooth blending.
- For extra veggies, consider adding diced onions, bell peppers, or spinach into the mixture.
- Use a blend of cheddar and mozzarella for a balanced sharp and creamy cheese flavor.
- Ensure the casserole is fully cooked by checking that the eggs are set and the top is golden brown.
- This casserole reheats well and is great for meal prep or feeding a crowd.
