Sausage, Egg and Cream Cheese Hashbrown Casserole
Introduction
Sausage, Egg and Cream Cheese Hashbrown Casserole is a warm, satisfying breakfast bake that combines classic morning flavors into one rich and hearty dish. With savory sausage, fluffy eggs, creamy cheese, and crispy hashbrowns, this casserole is perfect for feeding a crowd, prepping for the week, or enjoying a comforting brunch.
Origin and Cultural Significance
Breakfast casseroles are a beloved part of American cuisine, especially in the South and Midwest, where hearty, oven-baked dishes are cherished for their convenience and comfort. This style of recipe stems from community gatherings, potlucks, and family brunches—moments where sharing a nourishing, filling meal is part of the tradition. The combination of sausage, eggs, and potatoes reflects classic American breakfast flavors that generations have enjoyed.
Ingredients Quantity
- 1 lb breakfast sausage
- 1 (30 oz) package frozen hashbrowns
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 6 eggs
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 2 tbsp butter (optional, for greasing or adding richness)
Optional Additions
- Diced bell peppers or onions for extra flavor
- Sliced jalapeños for heat
- Additional cheeses such as mozzarella, pepper jack, or Swiss
- Fresh herbs like chives, parsley, or dill
- Sautéed mushrooms
- Hot sauce mixed into the egg mixture for spice
- Maple sausage to give a sweet-savory twist
Tips for Success
- Brown sausage well for deeper flavor and to avoid greasiness.
- Soften cream cheese fully so it blends smoothly with the sausage.
- Use thawed hashbrowns for an even, consistent texture.
- Mix eggs thoroughly to ensure the casserole sets properly.
- Rest before slicing—10 minutes helps the casserole firm up.
- Taste sausage mixture before adding salt since sausage can be salty.
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
- In a large skillet, cook the breakfast sausage over medium heat until browned. Drain excess grease.
- Add softened cream cheese to the hot sausage and stir until melted and fully combined.
- Spread frozen (or thawed) hashbrowns evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- Spoon the sausage–cream cheese mixture over the hashbrowns.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Pour the egg mixture evenly over the casserole.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese across the top.
- Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the center is set.
- Allow to cool for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Description
This casserole emerges warm and golden, with a crispy hashbrown base, a layer of creamy sausage filling, and fluffy, cheesy eggs on top. Every bite is rich, savory, and full of breakfast comfort. The cream cheese adds a delicious velvety texture that blends beautifully with the sausage and potatoes.
Nutritional Information
(Approximate per serving — serves 8)
- Calories: 420–520
- Protein: 18–22g
- Carbohydrates: 20–28g
- Fat: 28–36g
- Fiber: 1–2g
- Sodium: Moderate to high (sausage + cheese)
- Calcium: High
Conclusion
Sausage, Egg and Cream Cheese Hashbrown Casserole is a true comfort classic—rich, filling, and full of familiar breakfast flavors. It’s easy to prepare, customizable, and ideal for gatherings, holidays, or meal prep mornings.
Recommendation
Serve with fresh fruit, hot coffee, or a light side salad to balance the richness. Leftovers reheat beautifully, making this a great make-ahead breakfast option.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
This casserole is a celebration of warm, hearty ingredients that bring comfort and satisfaction. Enjoying it mindfully means savoring the flavors, sharing with loved ones, and embracing the joy that comes from a nourishing, homemade breakfast.