Sausage, Egg, and Cream Cheese Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole

I still remember the first time I prepared this Sausage, Egg, and Cream Cheese Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole. It was a chilly Sunday morning, and I wanted to surprise my family with a warm, comforting breakfast. As a novice cook, I sought a recipe that was straightforward yet impressive. This casserole exceeded my expectations, filling the kitchen with enticing aromas and earning rave reviews from my loved ones.

This recipe is ideal for beginners due to its simplicity and forgiving nature. It combines staple breakfast ingredients into a single dish, minimizing the need for multiple cooking processes. Additionally, it offers flexibility in preparation and can be made ahead of time, making it perfect for busy mornings or special occasions. Not only is it time-efficient, but it also provides a balanced meal with proteins, carbohydrates, and dairy, ensuring a nutritious start to the day.

Why This Recipe is Special

This casserole stands out because it encapsulates all the beloved elements of a traditional breakfast in one dish. The harmonious blend of savory sausage, creamy cheese, tender eggs, and crispy hash browns creates a symphony of flavors and textures. For those new to cooking, this recipe offers a confidence-boosting experience with its straightforward steps and satisfying results. It’s a versatile dish suitable for family gatherings, potlucks, or meal prepping for the week ahead.

Ingredients and Preparation

To create this delectable casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• Breakfast Sausage: Provides a savory and hearty flavor base. Opt for mild or spicy varieties based on preference. For a leaner option, consider turkey sausage.
• Cream Cheese: Adds a rich, creamy texture that balances the saltiness of the sausage. Ensure it’s softened for easier mixing.
• Frozen Hash Browns: Serve as the starchy component, offering a satisfying crunch. Thawing them beforehand ensures even cooking.
• Eggs: Act as a binding agent, holding all ingredients together while adding protein.
• Milk: Contributes to the fluffiness of the eggs. Whole milk offers richness, but skim or plant-based alternatives can be used.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Adds a sharp, cheesy flavor and forms a golden crust on top. Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack.
• Sour Cream: Enhances the creaminess and adds a slight tang. Greek yogurt can serve as a healthier substitute.
• Green Onions (Optional): Introduce a mild, fresh onion flavor and a pop of color.
• Garlic Powder and Onion Powder: Provide subtle depth and aromatic notes.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing overall flavor.
• Butter or Cooking Spray: Used for greasing the baking dish to prevent sticking.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions:

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute sausage with sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, and spinach for a meat-free version.
• Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free cream cheese, milk, and cheese alternatives to cater to lactose intolerance.
• Gluten-Free: Ensure all processed ingredients are certified gluten-free, especially the sausage and hash browns.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray and set it aside.

Step 2: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage until browned and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes. Break it into small crumbles as it cooks. Once done, drain any excess fat and set the sausage aside.

Step 3: While the sausage is cooking, take the thawed hash browns and press them between paper towels or a clean kitchen towel to remove any excess moisture. This step helps the hash browns become crispy when baked.

Step 4: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and sour cream. Mix until smooth and well combined. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, and green onions (if using). Set this mixture aside.

Step 5: Layer the thawed hash browns evenly across the bottom of the greased baking dish. Sprinkle the cooked sausage evenly over the hash browns. Spoon dollops of the cream cheese mixture over the sausage, spreading it out as evenly as possible.

Step 6: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper until fully blended. Pour this egg mixture evenly over the hash brown, sausage, and cream cheese layers.

Step 7: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.

Step 8: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is golden and bubbly.

Step 9: Allow the casserole to cool for about 5-10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy!

Note: To check if the casserole is done, insert a knife into the center. If it comes out clean and the eggs are set, it’s ready. If the top is browning too quickly, cover it loosely with foil to prevent over-browning while the center finishes cooking.

Beginner Tips and Notes

• Preventing Overcooked Vegetables: If adding vegetables like bell peppers or spinach, sauté them lightly before adding to prevent excess moisture, which can make the casserole soggy.
• Avoiding Over-Browning: If the top of the casserole is browning too quickly before the center is set, cover it loosely with foil for the remaining baking time.
• Efficient Preparation: To save time in the morning, assemble the casserole the night before, cover, and refrigerate. In the morning, bake as directed, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time if baking directly from the refrigerator.
• Tool Substitutions: If you don’t have a whisk, a fork can be used to beat the eggs and milk together. A spatula can substitute for a mixing spoon when combining ingredients.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole pairs wonderfully with:

• Fresh Fruit Salad: The lightness and sweetness of fruits balance the richness of the casserole.
• Mixed Green Salad: Adds a refreshing, crisp contrast to the hearty dish.
• Toast or Biscuits: Perfect for scooping up every delicious bite.

Storage Tips:

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave until warmed through.
• Freezing: For longer storage, cut the cooled casserole into individual portions, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 1 month. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

Conclusion

Embarking on your cooking journey with this Sausage, Egg, and Cream Cheese Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole is a delightful way to build confidence in the kitchen. Its straightforward steps and forgiving nature make it an ideal recipe for beginners. I encourage you to give it a try and share your experience in the comments below. Your feedback and any personal twists you add are always welcome. Happy cooking!

FAQ About Sausage, Egg, and Cream Cheese Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole

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