If you are searching for that perfect comfort breakfast that feels like a warm hug on a chilly morning, you absolutely cannot miss this Sausage Cream Cheese Casserole Recipe. It’s a heavenly mix of savory sausage, velvety cream cheese, fluffy eggs, and crispy hash browns all baked to golden perfection. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a cozy weekend brunch, this casserole brings together simple ingredients for an unforgettable, satisfying dish that’s both hearty and indulgent.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Sausage Cream Cheese Casserole Recipe plays a crucial role, contributing layers of flavor, texture, and richness. The blend of creamy and savory elements makes this recipe irresistibly delicious and easy to put together.
- 1 pound breakfast sausage (pork or turkey): Provides a flavorful, juicy base with a comforting meaty richness.
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened: Adds a creamy, tangy smoothness that melts perfectly into the sausage.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Brings a sharp, melty topping that browns delightfully in the oven.
- 6 large eggs: The binding agent that gives the casserole its fluffy, firm structure.
- 1/2 cup milk: Lightens the egg mixture for tender, moist results.
- 1 cup frozen hash browns, thawed: Adds heartiness and a crispy texture in every bite.
- 1/2 cup diced onion: Offers a subtle sweet and savory crunch layer on top.
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses a gentle depth of flavor.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Brings just enough heat to balance the richness.
- Salt to taste: Enhances all the natural flavors beautifully.
- Butter or oil for greasing: Prevents sticking and adds a touch of golden crispness.
How to Make Sausage Cream Cheese Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Cook the Sausage
Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and greasing a 9 by 13-inch baking dish with butter or oil to ensure the casserole doesn’t stick. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage thoroughly, breaking it up with a spoon as it browns. Once fully cooked, drain any excess grease to avoid a greasy casserole.
Step 2: Melt in the Cream Cheese
Lower the heat to low and add the softened cream cheese to the hot sausage in the skillet. Stir patiently until the cream cheese melts completely and blends smoothly with the sausage. This creates that luscious, creamy filling that makes the Sausage Cream Cheese Casserole Recipe stand apart.
Step 3: Whisk the Egg Mixture
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt until fully combined. This mixture is key to binding all the flavors and ingredients together and giving your casserole its perfect texture.
Step 4: Assemble the Layers
Evenly spread the thawed hash browns across the bottom of your greased baking dish, laying down a crispy foundation. Next, spoon the sausage and cream cheese mixture evenly over the hash browns. Sprinkle the diced onion and shredded cheddar cheese on top to add bursts of flavor and a beautiful, golden crust.
Step 5: Add the Egg Mixture and Bake
Carefully pour the egg mixture over all the layers in the baking dish. Gently press down with a spatula to make sure everything is evenly coated. Bake in the oven for 35 to 40 minutes until the casserole is fully set in the center and the top is lightly golden. Allow it to rest for 5 minutes before serving to let the flavors settle and slices hold their shape.
How to Serve Sausage Cream Cheese Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh garnishes like chopped parsley, green onions, or a spoonful of sour cream can brighten up the casserole and lend a fresh contrast to the rich, cheesy layers. These simple touches make every bite visually appealing and even more delicious.
Side Dishes
Pair this casserole with light, refreshing sides such as a crisp mixed green salad or fresh fruit salad to balance the richness. Toasted English muffins or warm croissants also make lovely accompaniments for a complete brunch experience.
Creative Ways to Present
For a crowd, serve this Sausage Cream Cheese Casserole Recipe directly from the baking dish with a colorful platter of garnishes on the side, so guests can customize their portions. Alternatively, slice it into neat squares and plate with a drizzle of hot sauce or avocado slices to elevate the presentation and flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This casserole stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors tend to deepen, making your leftovers even more crave-worthy the next day.
Freezing
You can assemble the entire casserole the night before and keep it covered in the fridge, then bake fresh in the morning. For longer storage, freeze the assembled casserole before baking for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 15 to 20 minutes to keep the casserole’s texture intact and avoid sogginess. Microwaving works for a quicker fix but might soften the crisp cheese topping.
FAQs
Can I use turkey sausage instead of pork sausage?
Absolutely! Turkey sausage is a great leaner alternative and works beautifully in this Sausage Cream Cheese Casserole Recipe without sacrificing flavor.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free sausage and ensure your hash browns are not processed with gluten-containing ingredients.
Can I add vegetables to this casserole?
Definitely. Diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach can be folded in before baking to add nutrition and flavor complexity to your casserole.
What is the best way to reheat this casserole?
The oven is best for reheating as it maintains texture and flavor. Heat at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 15 to 20 minutes until warmed through.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes! One of the best features of this Sausage Cream Cheese Casserole Recipe is its make-ahead convenience. Prepare and assemble the night before and bake fresh in the morning for effortless breakfast or brunch.
Final Thoughts
This Sausage Cream Cheese Casserole Recipe is a winner when you want a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal that’s easy to make but feels truly special. It’s filled with textures and flavors that invite you back for seconds – trust me, once you try it, it will become a beloved staple in your breakfast or brunch rotation. So go ahead, gather the ingredients, and enjoy creating something deliciously unforgettable!
Print
Sausage Cream Cheese Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten
Description
A hearty and flavorful breakfast casserole featuring savory breakfast sausage, creamy melted cream cheese, tender hash browns, and a blend of cheddar cheese and eggs baked to golden perfection. Perfect for brunch or make-ahead breakfasts.
Ingredients
Sausage Mixture
- 1 pound breakfast sausage (pork or turkey)
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
Casserole Base
- 1 cup frozen hash browns, thawed
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Egg Mixture
- 6 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
Additional
- Butter or oil for greasing the baking dish
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or oil to prevent sticking.
- Cook sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage, breaking it up until browned and completely cooked through. Drain any excess grease to reduce fat content.
- Melt cream cheese: Lower the heat to low and stir the softened cream cheese into the cooked sausage until it melts and combines thoroughly, creating a creamy sausage mixture. Remove from heat.
- Mix eggs and seasonings: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt until smooth and well combined.
- Assemble casserole: Evenly spread the thawed hash browns in the greased baking dish. Layer the sausage and cream cheese mixture over the hash browns. Sprinkle the diced onions and shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top.
- Pour egg mixture: Slowly pour the egg mixture over the layered ingredients in the baking dish, gently pressing down to ensure everything is well-coated and evenly covered.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is lightly golden brown.
- Rest and serve: Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving to allow it to set fully.
Notes
- This casserole can be assembled the night before and refrigerated, then baked fresh in the morning for convenience.
- For extra flavor, add diced bell peppers or substitute cheddar cheese with pepper jack cheese.
- Make sure to thaw hash browns before assembling for even cooking.
