Sausage, Egg, and Cream Cheese Hashbrown Casserole

Every time I make this Sausage, Egg, and Cream Cheese Hashbrown Casserole, it reminds me of cozy Sunday mornings in my kitchen. There’s something incredibly heartwarming about gathering the family around the table for a comforting meal, and this dish has become a beloved staple in our home. The aroma wafts through the air, wrapping everyone in a warm hug, and I can see the excitement in their eyes as they await the first bite. Trust me, once you try this delightful casserole, you’ll feel that same warmth and joy, making memories that you’ll cherish for years to come.

How to make Sausage, Egg, and Cream Cheese Hashbrown Casserole

Ingredients:

To whip up this delicious dish, here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 package of frozen hashbrowns: These will be the foundation of your casserole, giving it that lovely, creamy texture.
• 1 pound of sausage: I often use spicy Italian sausage for a little kick, but you can choose any type you prefer.
• 6 large eggs: Fresh eggs are vital. They bind everything together perfectly!
• 8 ounces of cream cheese: This is where the magic happens—it gives the casserole its rich creaminess.
• 1 cup of shredded cheese: Cheddar is my go-to, but feel free to experiment with your favorite cheese.
• 1/2 cup of milk: This helps create a beautiful, creamy consistency.
• Salt and pepper to taste: These seasonings bring everything to life.
• Optional: Diced onions and peppers for some added flavor and color.

Cooking Steps:

1. Preheat Your Oven: First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F. Trust me; this is key for getting that casserole perfectly cooked and deliciously golden on top.

2. Cook the Sausage: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the sausage until it’s fully cooked. I like to break it up into smaller pieces as it cooks, so it’s evenly distributed throughout the casserole.

3. Mix the Hashbrowns and Sausage: In a large bowl, combine your frozen hashbrowns with the cooked sausage. If you’re using onions and peppers, add them now. They bring such wonderful flavor and color to the dish!

4. Prepare the Egg Mixture: In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, cream cheese, milk, salt, and pepper. Make sure that the cream cheese is softened so that it mixes in smoothly.

5. Combine the Mixtures: Pour the egg mixture over the hashbrown and sausage mixture. Stir everything together until it’s well combined. You want all those lovely flavors to mingle!

6. Transfer to a Casserole Dish: Grease a casserole dish well (I use cooking spray or a little butter) and pour the mixed ingredients into the dish. Spread it out evenly.

7. Sprinkle the Cheese: Don’t forget to top your mixture with the shredded cheese! This will create a gooey, golden top that you will absolutely love.

8. Bake: Pop your casserole into the preheated oven and let it bake for about 45 to 55 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the center is set, and the top is beautifully golden brown.

9. Cool and Serve: Once it’s out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes. This will make it easier to serve, and the flavors will settle nicely.

Why I Love Making This Dish

I absolutely adore making this casserole because it brings us together as a family. It’s one of those dishes that can be made for breakfast, brunch, or even a cozy dinner. I love knowing that I’m serving my family something hearty and comforting, something that will not only fill their bellies but warm their hearts, too.

What You’ll Need

Aside from the delicious ingredients, you’ll want a few essential tools on hand:

• A large skillet for cooking the sausage.
• Two mixing bowls—one for the hashbrowns and sausage, one for the egg mixture.
• A whisk to thoroughly combine your eggs and creamy goodness.
• A greased casserole dish to cook the whole thing in. I prefer a nice glass casserole dish because it lets me see all that cheesy goodness as it bakes.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. As I mentioned before, start by preheating your oven to 350°F. This ensures a lovely, even cooking.
2. In your skillet, cook the sausage until it’s browned and crumbly.
3. Mix the hashbrowns and sausage together in a large bowl.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk your eggs, cream cheese, milk, salt, and pepper together until smooth.
5. Combine both mixtures and stir well.
6. Pour into a greased casserole dish and spread evenly.
7. Top with shredded cheese and bake!
8. After about 50 minutes, check for doneness and let cool a bit before serving.

Tips for Perfect Results

• If you want to give your casserole an extra flavor boost, consider adding some fresh herbs like parsley or chives. They not only add a pop of color but also smell divine while baking!
• Be careful not to overbake the casserole. You want a slight jiggle in the middle—it will continue to firm up as it cools.
• I sometimes prepare this dish the night before and let it sit in the fridge so the flavors can meld together. Just pop it in the oven the next morning when you’re ready.

Serving Suggestions and Sides

This casserole pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or some fresh fruit. I like to serve it with sliced avocados or a dollop of sour cream to add a bit of creaminess and a fresh twist.

Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare in my house!), they store wonderfully in the fridge. Just let the casserole cool completely, then cover it with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave or bake it in the oven until warmed through. It stays tasty for several days!

FAQ Section

Can I make this dish ahead of time? Absolutely! I sometimes prepare it the night before and store it in the fridge. Just be sure to let it come to room temperature before putting it in the oven. This way, it cooks evenly!

Can I use different types of cheese? Yes, definitely! While cheddar is lovely, feel free to try Monterey Jack, or even a pepper jack for some extra spice.

Can I use bell peppers? Sure! I love adding diced bell peppers for color and taste. Just make sure to sauté them a little with the sausage for maximum flavor.

Conclusion

This Sausage, Egg, and Cream Cheese Hashbrown Casserole has become a cherished part of our family meals, and I can’t wait for you to experience the joy it brings to your table. The creamy, cheesy goodness combined with the savory sausage and crispy hashbrowns is enough to make anyone’s heart flutter. I know you’ll love it as much as I do! Please give it a try, and let me know how it turns out for you. If your family asks for seconds, just like mine does every time, I’ll be thrilled for you! Happy cooking!