Sausage, Egg and Cream Cheese Hashbrown Casserole

Looking for a delicious and hearty breakfast or brunch option? This easy and flavorful Sausage, Egg, and Cream Cheese Hashbrown Casserole is sure to hit the spot! Packed with savory sausage, creamy cream cheese, and crispy hashbrowns, this casserole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb breakfast sausage
• 1 (30 oz) package frozen hashbrowns
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 6 eggs
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

• Preheat oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
• In a skillet, cook sausage over medium heat until browned and crumbled. Drain excess grease.
• In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked sausage, hashbrowns, cream cheese, eggs, milk, cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
• Pour mixture into prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
• Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the casserole is set and golden brown on top.
• Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Popular questions:

• Can I use fresh hashbrowns instead of frozen?

Yes, you can use freshly shredded hashbrowns if you prefer. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

• Can I substitute the breakfast sausage with another type of meat?

Feel free to use your favorite sausage or even ground beef if you’d like a different flavor profile.

• Is it possible to prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole the night before, cover and refrigerate, then bake it the next morning.

• Can I add vegetables to this casserole?

Yes, feel free to add diced bell peppers, onions, or spinach to the mix for added flavor and nutrition.

• Can I use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative?

Yes, you can use dairy-free cream cheese if you have dietary restrictions. The flavor may vary slightly.

• How can I make this casserole lighter in calories?

Consider using lean turkey sausage, reduced-fat cream cheese, and less cheese to reduce the calorie count.

• Can I freeze leftovers of this casserole?

Absolutely! Just make sure to wrap it tightly and store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months.

• What other cheeses can I use instead of cheddar?

You can experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella, pepper jack, or even feta for a unique twist.

• Can I make this casserole in individual portions?

Yes, you can bake the mixture in muffin tins for easy-to-serve individual portions.

• How can I add more flavor to this dish?

Consider adding herbs like thyme or parsley, or a sprinkle of hot sauce for an extra kick of flavor.

Helpful tips:

• Make sure to fully cook the sausage before adding it to the casserole mix to ensure it’s safe to eat.
• Let the cream cheese soften at room temperature for easier mixing and better incorporation into the casserole.
• For a crispy top, broil the casserole for a couple of minutes at the end of baking.
• Experiment with different types of sausage for varying flavor profiles, such as spicy Italian sausage or maple-flavored breakfast sausage.
• Serve the casserole with a side of fresh fruit or a simple green salad to balance out the richness of the dish.
• Feel free to customize the seasonings to your taste, adding herbs like rosemary or paprika for extra flavor.
• Consider adding a layer of cooked and crumbled bacon on top of the casserole for an extra crunchy and savory element.
• If you prefer a vegetarian version, you can substitute the sausage with meatless crumbles or diced vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini.
• For a touch of sweetness, drizzle maple syrup or honey over the casserole before serving for a delicious contrast of flavors.
• To make this casserole more filling, add a layer of cooked and chopped spinach or kale before pouring in the casserole mixture.

Expert Secrets:

• To ensure even cooking, make sure to spread the casserole mixture evenly in the baking dish.
• For a golden brown and crispy top, sprinkle a little extra shredded cheese over the casserole before baking.
• Let the casserole rest for a few minutes after baking to allow the flavors to meld together before serving.
• To amp up the creaminess, add a dollop of sour cream to the casserole mixture before baking.
• To add a kick of heat, sprinkle red pepper flakes or diced jalapenos over the casserole before baking.
• For a fancy presentation, garnish the baked casserole with chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives.
• If you prefer a spicier version, mix in a teaspoon of your favorite hot sauce to the casserole mixture before baking.
• For a cheesy crust, sprinkle a layer of Parmesan cheese on top of the casserole mixture before baking.
• To make this casserole more breakfast-friendly, serve it with a side of crispy bacon or sausage links.
• For a comforting twist, add a layer of creamy mushroom soup to the casserole mixture for a rich and flavorful result.