Sausage Egg Cream Cheese Hashbrowns

This Sausage Egg and Cream Cheese Hashbrown Casserole is my go to for holiday breakfasts or whenever I need something hearty that will feed a crowd. Rich with savory sausage creamy pockets of cheese and crispy hashbrowns all tied together with fluffy eggs it never fails to delight everyone at the table and makes busy mornings feel a little more special.

My family devours this on Christmas morning every year and I love how it fills the kitchen with cozy aromas and everyone always comes back for seconds.

Ingredients

• Breakfast sausage: Pork or turkey brings deep savory flavor look for fresh sausage with even fat for the best texture
• Cream cheese: Creates a creamy luxurious base softened for easy mixing choose full fat for rich results
• Large eggs: Provide structure and fluffiness fresher eggs set up best in baking dishes
• Milk: Whole or 2 percent makes the eggs tender and flavorful try local dairy for fresher taste
• Salt: Draws out all the flavors be sure it is evenly distributed
• Black pepper: Adds subtle heat use freshly ground for brighter flavor
• Garlic powder: Optional for extra savory warmth opt for fresh ground if you keep it on hand
• Onion powder: Optional for extra aromatic depth select one with no additives for clean flavor
• Frozen hashbrowns, thawed: These add heartiness and texture shredded style works best for even baking pick brands with just potatoes and no extras
• Shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp or mild melts into a gooey top layer buy in blocks and shred for the best melt
• Green onions or chives: Optional garnish for fresh color and zest use bright crisp stalks

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

Set your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure a steady even bake Grease a 9 by 13 inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray for easy serving later

Cook the Sausage:

Place the sausage in a skillet over medium heat Break into small crumbles as it cooks and continue until there is no pink remaining Carefully drain away any excess fat to avoid a greasy dish

Combine with Cream Cheese:

Turn the heat to low and add softened cream cheese Break it up with your spoon and stir constantly until it melts and clings to the sausage creating a creamy filling mixture Remove from the heat

Whisk Egg Mixture:

In a roomy bowl whisk together eggs milk salt and pepper Add garlic or onion powder if you are using Make sure no streaks of white remain and everything is frothy and fully combined

Assemble the Casserole:

Spread thawed hashbrowns evenly in the bottom of your prepared baking dish Spoon the sausage and cream cheese mixture on top and gently spread Pour the egg mixture over everything letting it soak into the layers Finish with a full sprinkle of cheddar cheese

Bake:

Slide the dish into your oven uncovered and bake for 45 to 50 minutes Watch for the eggs to puff and the top to turn golden brown with no jiggle in the center Let it rest 5 to 10 minutes so the casserole sets for easy cutting

Garnish and Serve:

Add sliced green onions or chives on top for a pop of color and flavor You can also serve with a little hot sauce if you like extra spice

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Hashbrowns are my favorite part of this casserole I love how they soak up all the creamy egg and sausage flavor My kids always try to snag the crispiest cheesy edge pieces which reminds me of cozy weekends with everyone gathered around the breakfast table

Storage Tips

Let leftovers cool completely then cover tightly and refrigerate for up to four days Reheat slices gently in the oven or microwave for quick breakfasts all week For freezing wrap portions well and store for up to two months Thaw overnight before reheating

Ingredient Substitutions

You can easily swap turkey sausage for pork sausage for a lighter option or try using part spicy sausage for a kick Dairy free milk and plant based cream cheese work if needed For extra veggies add sautéed bell peppers mushrooms or spinach and swap cheddar for mozzarella if you prefer a milder cheese

Serving Suggestions

This casserole shines on its own but pairs perfectly with a fresh fruit salad or a side of buttery toast Serve at brunch potlucks holidays or even breakfast for dinner a treat in our house A simple drizzle of hot sauce or salsa on the side is another delicious touch

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Cultural Context

Breakfast casseroles like this are a staple in many American households especially in the Midwest and South They are rooted in the tradition of gathering family for hearty weekend or holiday breakfasts It is a dish that brings people together and adapts beautifully to whatever you have on hand

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I prepare this dish the night before?

Yes, you can assemble everything, cover, refrigerate overnight, and bake in the morning.

→ Can I use turkey sausage instead of pork?

Absolutely. Both work well and bring their own flavor—use whichever you prefer or have on hand.

→ Do I need to cook the hashbrowns before assembling?

No, just thaw the frozen hashbrowns. They cook through in the oven during baking.

→ What’s a good way to make this spicier?

Try using hot breakfast sausage or add diced jalapeños to the mix for extra heat.

→ How do I know when the casserole is done baking?

Check that the eggs are set in the center and the top is golden. Baking takes around 45–50 minutes.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

Sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach bring extra color and texture to the finished dish.