Cheese Hashbrown Casserole

When it comes to breakfast or brunch, there’s nothing quite like a hearty, comforting casserole that can feed a crowd. This Sausage, Egg, and Cream Cheese Hashbrown Casserole is one of those dishes that you’ll find yourself making over and over again. It’s a creamy, cheesy, and satisfying meal that combines all the classic breakfast flavors you love. Whether you’re serving it for a weekend family breakfast, a special holiday brunch, or even as a quick and easy dinner, this casserole never fails to impress.

The idea for this recipe came about during one of those lazy Sunday mornings when I wanted something substantial yet simple to prepare. I had a bag of frozen hashbrowns in the freezer, some leftover breakfast sausage from the previous day, and a block of cream cheese that was just waiting to be used. The combination turned out to be pure magic. The crispy hashbrowns provide a satisfying base, while the creamy egg mixture infused with cream cheese gives the dish a rich and luscious texture. The addition of cooked sausage and cheddar cheese takes it to the next level, creating a flavor-packed casserole that’s both filling and comforting.

What makes this casserole even better is how easy it is to make. You can prepare it the night before, refrigerate it, and simply pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat. It’s also incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize the ingredients to suit your preferences. Whether you prefer turkey sausage, chicken sausage, or even vegetarian options, this recipe can be easily adapted to meet your dietary needs. And if you’re cooking for a large group, it’s simple to double the recipe and bake it in a larger dish.

From holiday breakfasts to everyday meals, this Sausage, Egg, and Cream Cheese Hashbrown Casserole is the perfect dish to add to your recipe collection. It’s comforting, flavorful, and so easy to make that you’ll wonder why you haven’t been making it all along.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are so many reasons why this Sausage, Egg, and Cream Cheese Hashbrown Casserole is a must-try recipe. Not only is it incredibly delicious, but it’s also simple to prepare and versatile enough to suit a variety of tastes and dietary preferences. Let’s break down why this recipe deserves a spot in your regular rotation.

First and foremost, this casserole is packed with flavor. The combination of savory sausage, creamy eggs, rich cream cheese, and melted cheddar cheese creates a mouthwatering dish that hits all the right notes. The hashbrowns add a satisfying texture, providing a crispy contrast to the creamy and cheesy layers. Each bite offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures that will leave you wanting more.

Another reason you’ll love this recipe is its ease of preparation. Even if you’re not a seasoned cook, you’ll find this casserole incredibly easy to put together. All you have to do is cook the sausage, sauté the hashbrowns, mix the egg and cheese mixture, layer everything in a baking dish, and pop it in the oven. The hardest part is waiting for it to bake while your kitchen fills with the irresistible aroma of breakfast comfort food.

One of the best things about this casserole is how customizable it is. While the classic combination of sausage, eggs, hashbrowns, and cream cheese is hard to beat, you can easily tailor the recipe to suit your preferences. Want to add some veggies? Throw in some bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms. Prefer a little heat? Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños. You can even switch out the sausage for turkey sausage, chicken sausage, or vegetarian sausage if you prefer.

This casserole is also perfect for meal prepping. You can assemble the dish the night before and keep it covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it. This makes it an excellent choice for busy mornings, holiday gatherings, or whenever you need to feed a crowd without the stress of last-minute cooking.

And let’s not forget how well this dish stores and reheats. If you have leftovers, simply cover them and store them in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, just reheat the casserole in the oven or microwave until warmed through. It’s just as delicious the next day, making it a great option for make-ahead breakfasts.

With its bold flavors, creamy texture, and easy preparation, this Sausage, Egg, and Cream Cheese Hashbrown Casserole is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.

Health Benefits

While this casserole is undoubtedly an indulgent and satisfying dish, it also offers some nutritional benefits thanks to its protein-rich ingredients. While the recipe is not exactly low in calories, it does provide valuable nutrients that can be part of a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation.

Let’s start with the sausage. Sausage is a great source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues, supporting muscle growth, and providing lasting energy. While sausage can be high in saturated fat and sodium, you can opt for healthier alternatives like turkey sausage or chicken sausage to reduce the overall fat content. Choosing leaner options can help make this casserole a bit more health-conscious without sacrificing flavor.

Eggs are another protein powerhouse in this recipe. They are an excellent source of high-quality protein, providing all the essential amino acids your body needs. Eggs are also rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B12, riboflavin, selenium, and choline. Choline is particularly important for brain health and proper liver function. Additionally, eggs contain antioxidants like lutein and zeaxanthin, which support eye health.

Cream cheese, while high in fat, does offer some nutritional benefits when consumed in moderation. It’s a good source of calcium, which is essential for maintaining strong bones and teeth. Cream cheese also contains small amounts of vitamin A, which supports healthy skin, vision, and immune function. For those looking to reduce calories and fat, using reduced-fat cream cheese is a great option.

Hashbrowns are the primary carbohydrate source in this recipe. While potatoes are often seen as a comfort food, they do offer important nutrients such as potassium, vitamin C, and vitamin B6. Potatoes are also a good source of dietary fiber, especially when the skin is left on. Although frozen hashbrowns are used in this recipe for convenience, you can always opt for fresh potatoes if you prefer.

The cheddar cheese adds another layer of protein and calcium to the casserole. It’s also a good source of phosphorus, which works alongside calcium to support bone health. Additionally, cheese provides essential fatty acids that contribute to overall well-being when consumed in moderation.

If you want to make this recipe a bit healthier, there are several modifications you can try. Using reduced-fat cheese and cream cheese, swapping out regular sausage for a leaner option, and adding vegetables to boost the nutrient content are all great ways to enhance the nutritional value of this dish.

This casserole is certainly rich and satisfying, but with a few tweaks, you can enjoy it as part of a balanced diet.

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions

Creating this Sausage, Egg, and Cream Cheese Hashbrown Casserole is all about layering flavors and textures to build something truly special. From the crispy hashbrowns to the melty cheese and creamy eggs, every step plays a vital role. Here’s how you make it:

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Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish & Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

• Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with 2 tablespoons of butter.

• Why butter? It adds flavor while also preventing the casserole from sticking.

• Tip: If you prefer, you can use cooking spray, but butter gives it a richer, more indulgent flavor.

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Step 2: Cook the Sausage

The sausage layer adds that delicious, savory bite to the casserole.

• Ingredients:

  • 1 lb breakfast sausage (bulk or casings removed)

• Instructions:

  1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.

  2. Add the sausage and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until it’s browned and cooked through. This should take about 7-10 minutes.

  3. Once browned, drain any excess grease and set the cooked sausage aside.

  4. Tip: For a slightly spicy twist, try using hot breakfast sausage instead of regular.

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Step 3: Sauté the Hashbrowns

Crispy hashbrowns are key to giving this casserole a fantastic texture.

• Ingredients:

  • 1 (30 oz) bag frozen hashbrowns

• Instructions:

  1. In the same skillet used for the sausage, add a little more butter or oil if needed.

  2. Add the hashbrowns and cook over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally.

  3. Cook until they’re lightly crispy on the edges, about 8–10 minutes.

  4. Set aside once done.

  5. Tip: Don’t worry about cooking them fully—they’ll finish cooking in the oven. The goal is just to get a bit of crispiness for better texture.

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Step 4: Prepare the Egg Mixture

The creamy egg mixture is what binds everything together.

• Ingredients:

  • 6 large eggs

  • 1/2 cup sour cream

  • 1/2 cup milk

  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder

  • 1/2 tsp onion powder

  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

  • Salt to taste (about 1/2 tsp, but adjust to your preference)

• Instructions:

  1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt.

  2. Keep whisking until everything is well-combined and slightly frothy. This helps the casserole bake up light and fluffy.

  3. Tip: If you want a little kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.

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Step 5: Incorporate the Cream Cheese

Here’s where the richness really kicks in.

• Ingredients:

  • 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened

• Instructions:

  1. Add the softened cream cheese to the egg mixture.

  2. Mix until smooth. It’s okay if there are a few small lumps—they’ll melt during baking.

  3. Tip: For ultra-creamy results, use a hand mixer to blend the cream cheese until completely smooth.

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Step 6: Assemble the Casserole

Time to put it all together!

• Ingredients:

  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

• Instructions:

  1. Layer the hashbrowns evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish.

  2. Sprinkle the cooked sausage evenly over the hashbrowns.

  3. Pour the egg and cream cheese mixture over the sausage and hashbrowns, ensuring even coverage.

  4. Top with shredded cheddar cheese, sprinkling it evenly over the top.

  5. Tip: Add more cheese if you like it extra cheesy. You can also use a blend of cheddar and mozzarella for a gooey finish.

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Step 7: Bake the Casserole

• Place the casserole in the preheated oven (350°F/175°C).

• Bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden on top.

• The casserole should be set, but slightly jiggly in the center—like a perfectly baked quiche.

• Tip: If the cheese starts browning too quickly, cover loosely with foil during the last 10 minutes of baking.

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Step 8: Let it Cool & Serve

• Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps everything set, making it easier to cut into neat slices.

• Slice, serve, and enjoy your deliciously cheesy, creamy, and hearty breakfast casserole!

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How to Serve Cheese Hashbrown Casserole

This Sausage, Egg, and Cream Cheese Hashbrown Casserole is a complete meal in itself, but you can definitely take it up a notch:

Serving Ideas:

• Breakfast or Brunch Spread: Pair it with fresh fruit salad, buttery biscuits, or toasted bagels.

• Holiday Brunch: Serve alongside crispy turkey bacon, pancakes, or cinnamon rolls for a feast.

• Light Meal: Serve with a simple arugula salad to balance the richness.

• Toppings: Sprinkle with chopped fresh chives, green onions, or even a drizzle of hot sauce for extra flavor.

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Pairing Suggestions

To make this casserole the star of the table, try serving it with:

Beverages:

• Freshly Squeezed Orange Juice: The bright citrus cuts through the richness beautifully.

• Iced Coffee or Lattes: The creamy, smooth coffee pairs perfectly with the cheesy casserole.

• Fruit Smoothies: Try a berry smoothie to add a refreshing touch.

Side Dishes:

• Roasted Vegetables: Add some color and nutrition to your meal.

• Fresh Salad: A simple mixed greens salad with lemon vinaigrette pairs nicely.

• Buttery Croissants or Toast: Perfect for mopping up that creamy goodness.

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Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

Storage:

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.

• Tip: Let the casserole cool completely before refrigerating to prevent condensation from making it soggy.

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Freezing:

• Let the casserole cool completely.

• Slice into portions and wrap each piece tightly with plastic wrap.

• Place wrapped pieces in a freezer-safe bag or container.

• Store for up to 2 months.

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Reheating:

• Oven: Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through.

• Microwave: Heat individual portions for about 1–2 minutes, but note it won’t be as crispy.

• Tip: Add a sprinkle of cheese before reheating to freshen up the flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even though this Sausage, Egg, and Cream Cheese Hashbrown Casserole is straightforward, a few common mistakes can affect the final result. Here’s what to avoid:

1. Using Raw Hashbrowns:
   If you skip sautéing the hashbrowns beforehand, they can turn out soggy instead of crispy. Taking a few extra minutes to cook them until slightly golden makes a big difference in both texture and flavor.

2. Not Softening the Cream Cheese:
   Cold, hard cream cheese won’t mix smoothly with the egg mixture, resulting in clumps instead of a creamy, cohesive dish. Let it soften at room temperature or microwave it for 20 seconds to ensure it blends smoothly.

3. Overmixing the Egg Mixture:
   When combining the eggs, cream cheese, sour cream, and seasonings, mix just until smooth. Overmixing can incorporate too much air, leading to a slightly rubbery texture.

4. Underseasoning:
   This casserole relies on layers of flavor. Make sure you’re properly seasoning the egg mixture. Taste and adjust salt and spices as needed before pouring it over the hashbrowns and sausage.

5. Skipping the Resting Period After Baking:
   Letting the casserole rest for about 5-10 minutes after baking allows it to set and makes cutting and serving much easier. If you dig in too quickly, it might be runny and not hold together well.

6. Overbaking the Casserole:
   Baking for too long will dry out the eggs. Check for doneness by inserting a knife in the center—it should come out mostly clean with a slight jiggle for the creamiest texture.

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Pro Tips

Want to make your Sausage, Egg, and Cream Cheese Hashbrown Casserole absolutely perfect? Here are some pro tips to help you out:

1. Use High-Quality Sausage:
   Opt for a flavorful breakfast sausage to really amp up the taste. Spicy sausage works great if you like a bit of heat, while turkey sausage is a great option if you want to lighten things up.

2. Make It Ahead:
   This casserole is perfect for meal prepping! You can assemble everything the night before, cover it with foil, and refrigerate it overnight. The next morning, just pop it in the oven and bake as directed.

3. Customize Your Cheese:
   While cheddar is classic, mixing in some mozzarella or pepper jack can add an extra creamy, melty finish. You can also sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top for a crispy, golden crust.

4. Vegetable Boost:
   Want to sneak in some veggies? Diced bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms make excellent additions. Just sauté them with the sausage before adding them to the casserole.

5. Double Up for a Crowd:
   This recipe is fantastic for feeding a crowd! If you need more servings, just double the ingredients and use a larger baking dish. Adjust the cooking time as needed.

6. Check for Doneness:
   Since oven temperatures can vary, start checking your casserole around the 35-minute mark. If the center is still very runny, give it another 5-10 minutes and check again.

7. Freezing Made Easy:
   You can freeze the baked casserole! Let it cool completely, cut it into portions, and freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) (300 words)

Q1: Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
Absolutely! Swap the sausage with plant-based sausage crumbles or sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, and spinach for a hearty, meat-free version.

Q2: What if I don’t have cream cheese?
You can replace cream cheese with an extra 1/2 cup of sour cream or Greek yogurt for a slightly tangy, creamy texture.

Q3: Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hashbrowns?
Yes! Just shred the potatoes and pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Lightly sauté them in a skillet before layering them in the casserole.

Q4: Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
Definitely. You can assemble it the night before and store it in the fridge, covered. Just bake it fresh in the morning, adding a few extra minutes if it’s straight from the fridge.

Q5: Can I freeze this casserole before baking?
Yes! Assemble the casserole but don’t bake it. Wrap it tightly with foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

Q6: How do I store leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Q7: Can I add more cheese on top?
Absolutely! If you’re a cheese lover, sprinkle an extra 1/2 cup of cheddar or mozzarella over the casserole before baking.

Q8: What can I serve this casserole with?
Pair it with a fresh fruit salad, buttery biscuits, or even a simple green salad to balance the rich flavors.

Q9: Can I use different kinds of sausage?
Yes! Chicken sausage, turkey sausage, or even Italian sausage can be delicious alternatives. Just make sure they’re fully cooked before adding to the casserole.

Q10: Why did my casserole turn out runny?
If the casserole is underbaked or the hashbrowns weren’t cooked beforehand, it can turn out watery. Make sure to sauté the hashbrowns and bake until the center is just set.

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Conclusion & Call to Action

Now that you’re armed with all the tips and tricks for the perfect Sausage, Egg, and Cream Cheese Hashbrown Casserole, you’re ready to wow everyone at breakfast or brunch! Whether it’s a cozy weekend morning, a holiday gathering, or a meal prep plan for the week, this casserole will be your new go-to.

What makes this dish so amazing is how adaptable it is. You can easily switch up the sausage, add in extra veggies, or even make it vegetarian. Plus, you can prep it ahead of time and have a hot, delicious meal ready to go without the morning hassle.

And the best part? It’s creamy, cheesy, and so satisfying. One bite of that crispy hashbrown layer combined with savory sausage and creamy eggs, and you’ll be in breakfast heaven.

I can’t wait for you to try this recipe! When you do, don’t forget to share your results. Snap a photo, post it on social media, and tag me so I can see your delicious creation. Also, if you put your own creative twist on this casserole, be sure to drop a comment below to inspire others.

Happy cooking, and enjoy every creamy, cheesy, comforting bite! 🌟🍳🧀

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