Sausage, Egg, and Cream Cheese Hashbrown Casserole
If you’re looking for the perfect comfort breakfast casserole, this Sausage, Egg, and Cream Cheese Hashbrown Casserole is a must-try. It’s rich, creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. The combination of crispy hashbrowns, savory sausage, fluffy eggs, and creamy cheese makes it ideal for family breakfasts, weekend brunch, holidays, or meal prep.
This dish is also incredibly convenient because you can prepare it ahead of time and simply bake it when you’re ready to eat. Whether you’re hosting guests or feeding a hungry family, this casserole is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are many reasons why this breakfast casserole has become so popular.
First, it’s simple and easy to make. Even beginner cooks can prepare it without difficulty.
Second, it uses basic ingredients that are easy to find in most grocery stores.
Another great thing about this recipe is how customizable it is. You can add vegetables, change the cheese, or even switch the sausage for bacon or turkey sausage.
Finally, it’s perfect for leftovers. The casserole reheats well, making it great for busy mornings.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40–45 minutes
- Total Time: About 1 hour
- Servings: 6–8 servings
Ingredients
To make this delicious casserole, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 package (about 20 ounces / 550g) frozen hashbrowns, thawed
- 1 pound (450g) breakfast sausage
- 6 large eggs
- 8 ounces (225g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup milk
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon butter or oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- ½ teaspoon paprika (optional)
Optional ingredients you can add for extra flavor:
- diced bell peppers
- green onions
- mushrooms
- cooked bacon bits
Kitchen Equipment
You will need:
- Large skillet
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- 9×13 inch baking dish
- Oven
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage
Place a large skillet over medium heat. Add the butter or oil and let it warm up.
Add the sausage and chopped onion to the skillet. Cook them together while breaking the sausage into small pieces using a spatula.
Cook for about 6–8 minutes, or until the sausage is fully browned and the onions become soft and fragrant.
Once cooked, remove the skillet from heat and set it aside to cool slightly.
Step 3: Prepare the Egg Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, crack the six eggs.
Add the milk, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
Use a whisk to beat the mixture until the eggs are fully combined and slightly frothy.
Step 4: Add the Cream Cheese
Take the softened cream cheese and cut it into small cubes.
Add the cubes to the egg mixture. It’s okay if the cream cheese does not fully dissolve; small pieces will melt while baking and create delicious creamy pockets throughout the casserole.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
Spread the hashbrowns evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
Next, sprinkle the cooked sausage and onion mixture over the hashbrowns.
Pour the egg and cream cheese mixture evenly over everything in the dish.
Finally, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top.
Step 6: Bake the Casserole
Place the casserole dish into the preheated oven.
Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the eggs are fully set and the top becomes golden brown.
If you like a crispier cheese topping, you can turn on the broiler for the last 3–5 minutes of baking.
Let It Rest Before Serving
Once the casserole is done baking, remove it from the oven and allow it to rest for 5–10 minutes. This helps the casserole firm up and makes it easier to slice.
Cut it into squares and serve warm.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs wonderfully with many breakfast sides, including:
- Toast or English muffins
- Fresh fruit
- Avocado slices
- Breakfast potatoes
- Coffee or fresh orange juice
It can also work well as a brunch centerpiece alongside pancakes or waffles.
Storage and Reheating
One of the best things about this recipe is how well it stores.
Refrigerator:
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer:
You can freeze the casserole for up to 2 months. Wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap and place them in freezer bags.
Reheating:
Reheat in the microwave for 1–2 minutes or warm it in the oven at 325°F (160°C) until heated through.
Tips for the Best Hashbrown Casserole
Use thawed hashbrowns so the casserole doesn’t become watery.
Let the cream cheese soften at room temperature before adding it to the eggs.
For extra flavor, try mixing different cheeses, such as mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack.
If you like spice, add jalapeños or hot sauce to the egg mixture.
Make-Ahead Option
This casserole is perfect for preparing the night before.
Simply assemble the entire dish, cover it with plastic wrap, and place it in the refrigerator overnight. The next morning, remove it from the fridge and bake it as directed.
This makes it ideal for holiday mornings, busy weekdays, or family gatherings.
Final Result:
You’ll get a warm, cheesy, creamy breakfast casserole filled with crispy hashbrowns, savory sausage, fluffy eggs, and melted cheese. It’s hearty, satisfying, and guaranteed to become a favorite breakfast recipe.