Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This sausage, egg, and cream cheese hashbrown casserole is the kind of breakfast dish that instantly brings comfort and satisfaction. It combines familiar ingredients into a rich, hearty bake that works just as well for busy mornings as it does for relaxed weekend brunches. The creamy texture from the cream cheese pairs beautifully with savory sausage and fluffy eggs, while the hashbrowns provide structure and heartiness. I tested this recipe when I needed a make-ahead breakfast that could feed a group, and it quickly became a household favorite. It reheats beautifully, slices cleanly, and feels indulgent without being overly complicated. Whether you are hosting guests, meal-prepping for the week, or looking for a filling breakfast-for-dinner option, this casserole delivers consistent results with minimal effort. It is especially appealing because everything bakes together in one dish, making cleanup simple and stress-free.
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Sausage, Egg & Cream Cheese Hashbrown Casserole (Ultimate Comfort Breakfast)
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
A hearty and savory breakfast hashbrown filled with seasoned sausage, fluffy eggs, and creamy cream cheese, baked or pan-cooked until golden and satisfying.
Ingredients
- 2 cups frozen shredded hashbrowns
- 200 g breakfast sausage, cooked and crumbled
- 3 large eggs
- 3 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
- 1 tablespoon butter or oil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
- Thaw the hashbrowns and squeeze out excess moisture using a clean towel.
- Heat butter or oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add the hashbrowns, season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, and cook until golden and crispy. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, cook the sausage until browned and fully cooked. Set aside.
- Whisk the eggs and scramble them gently in the skillet until just set.
- Stir in the cream cheese until melted and creamy.
- Combine the hashbrowns, sausage, and egg mixture, mixing well.
- Serve hot as a breakfast dish or wrap in a tortilla if desired.
Notes
- Use spicy sausage for extra heat.
- Can be baked at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes instead of skillet cooking.
- Add shredded cheese or green onions for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Pan-Frying
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Breakfast sausage
Breakfast sausage forms the savory base of this casserole. Its seasoning infuses the entire dish with flavor, ensuring every bite tastes rich and satisfying. Pork sausage is traditional, but alternatives work well too.
Frozen hashbrowns
Hashbrowns provide structure and heartiness. Using frozen hashbrowns saves time and ensures consistent texture, absorbing flavor while baking without becoming mushy.
Eggs
Eggs bind the casserole together and create a soft, custard-like interior. They balance the richness of the sausage and cream cheese.
Cream cheese
Cream cheese is what sets this recipe apart. It melts into the eggs and sausage, creating a smooth, creamy texture that elevates the entire dish.
Shredded cheddar cheese
Cheddar adds sharpness and enhances the overall savory profile. It also creates a lightly golden top when baked.
Milk
Milk helps loosen the egg mixture, ensuring the casserole stays tender rather than dense.
Salt
Salt enhances the natural flavors of the eggs and potatoes.
Black pepper
Black pepper adds subtle warmth and balances the richness of the dish.
Directions
Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F) and lightly grease a large baking dish. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage until fully browned, breaking it into small pieces. Drain excess grease and set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until smooth. Add softened cream cheese and whisk again until mostly incorporated. Small lumps are fine, as they will melt during baking. Season the mixture with salt and black pepper.
Add the cooked sausage, frozen hashbrowns, and shredded cheddar cheese to the egg mixture. Stir gently until everything is evenly combined. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
Bake uncovered for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is lightly golden. Allow the casserole to rest for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Equipment needed
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.
3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 6 people.
Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes.
Cooking time is 40 to 45 minutes.
Total time is about 1 hour.
Storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm individual portions in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 10 to 15 minutes. Microwaving is possible, but oven reheating preserves texture best.
Variations and Customizations
This casserole is highly adaptable, making it easy to tailor to your preferences. For a spicier version, use hot breakfast sausage or add chopped jalapeños to the mixture. I have also tried adding a pinch of smoked paprika, which adds depth without overpowering the dish.
If you prefer a lighter option, turkey sausage works well and still delivers excellent flavor. You can also reduce richness by using reduced-fat cream cheese and milk, though the texture will be slightly less creamy.
Vegetable additions such as sautéed bell peppers, onions, or spinach bring color and freshness. Be sure to cook vegetables first to remove excess moisture. For a cheese variation, swap cheddar with Monterey Jack or a blend for a milder finish.
This dish also works well as a make-ahead meal. Assemble everything the night before, refrigerate, and bake in the morning. Simply add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Nutrition and Dietary Info
| Nutrient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 420 kcal |
| Protein | 20 g |
| Carbs | 26 g |
| Fat | 28 g |
| Saturated fat | 12 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 3 g |
| Sodium | 780 mg |
Expert Tips & Customizations
Soften the cream cheese
Allowing the cream cheese to soften makes mixing much easier and improves texture.
Drain sausage well
Removing excess grease prevents the casserole from becoming oily.
Do not thaw hashbrowns
Using them frozen helps maintain structure during baking.
Let it rest before slicing
Resting allows the casserole to set fully for cleaner slices.
Adjust seasoning after baking
Taste and lightly season again if needed once the casserole is cooked.
FAQs
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble it the night before and bake it the next morning.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, once baked and cooled, it can be frozen for up to 2 months.
What type of hashbrowns work best?
Shredded frozen hashbrowns provide the best texture and even cooking.
Can I make this recipe without cream cheese?
Yes, but the texture will be less creamy and rich.
Is this casserole suitable for brunch?
Absolutely, it is ideal for brunch gatherings and feeds a crowd easily.
How do I know when it is fully cooked?
The center should be set and no longer jiggly when gently shaken.
Conclusion
This sausage, egg, and cream cheese hashbrown casserole is a reliable, crowd-pleasing breakfast that balances richness with simplicity. With minimal prep and one-pan baking, it delivers maximum flavor and comfort. Whether served fresh from the oven or reheated later, it remains satisfying and versatile, making it a recipe worth keeping in regular rotation.
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