Start your day on a high note with a dish that is as satisfying as it is flavorful: the Sausage, Egg, and Cream Cheese Hashbrown Casserole. This hearty casserole is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings warmth and comfort to breakfast tables across homes. Often enjoyed during special occasions like family gatherings or holiday brunches, this dish is a celebration of flavors that combines the rich taste of sausage with creamy textures and the heartiness of hashbrowns. Whether it’s a lazy Sunday morning or a festive holiday gathering, this casserole is a crowd-pleaser that guarantees smiles all around. Prepare to indulge in a dish that is both easy to make and utterly delicious, making it a staple in your breakfast repertoire.
Tools and Equipment
Before diving into the preparation of this delightful casserole, gather the following tools and equipment to ensure a smooth cooking experience:
- Large skillet
- Mixing bowls (large and medium)
- Whisk or fork
- 9×13 inch baking dish
- Spatula or wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
Having these tools ready will streamline your cooking process, allowing you to focus on the delicious flavors that are about to come together.
Ingredients List
Here’s what you’ll need to create this savory casserole:
- 1 lb. ground breakfast sausage
- 8 oz. cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 tsp. salt
- 1/2 tsp. pepper
- 1/4 tsp. onion powder
- 1/4 tsp. garlic powder
- 6 eggs
- 32 oz. frozen shredded hashbrowns
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 green onions, diced
Each ingredient plays a vital role in building the casserole’s rich flavor profile. The ground breakfast sausage adds a hearty protein base, while the cream cheese and sour cream contribute a creamy texture that binds all ingredients. The eggs provide structure and richness, and the hashbrowns serve as a satisfying, crispy layer. Finally, the cheddar cheese not only enhances flavor but also gives that appealing golden top, while green onions add a fresh, vibrant touch.
Preparation Steps
Preparation is key to a successful casserole. Follow these pre-cooking tasks to set yourself up for a smooth cooking experience:
- Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your casserole cooks evenly.
- In a large skillet, cook the breakfast sausage over medium heat until it is browned and fully cooked. Make sure to drain any excess grease to avoid a greasy casserole.
- While the sausage is cooking, soften the cream cheese at room temperature or microwave it for a few seconds until it is easy to mix.
Note: Preparing the sausage in advance can save you time and allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Now that you have prepared your ingredients, it’s time to assemble and cook your casserole:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, milk, salt, pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder. Mix until fully combined and smooth.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs together until they are well mixed.
- Add the cream cheese mixture to the beaten eggs and stir until well combined.
- Incorporate the cooked sausage, frozen hashbrowns, shredded cheddar cheese, and diced green onions into the egg mixture. Mix until everything is evenly distributed.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is fully cooked.
- Once baked, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the casserole to set and makes it easier to cut into portions.
- Garnish with additional diced green onions before serving, if desired.
Tip: Keep an eye on the casserole in the last few minutes of baking to ensure it doesn’t over-brown.
Nutritional Information and Health Benefits
This Sausage, Egg, and Cream Cheese Hashbrown Casserole is not only delicious but also packs a punch in terms of nutrition:
- High in Protein: With ground sausage and eggs as the main ingredients, this casserole is a great source of protein, essential for muscle repair and growth.
- Rich in Calcium: The inclusion of cheese and dairy products provides a significant amount of calcium, crucial for bone health.
- Filling and Satisfying: The combination of eggs and hashbrowns makes this dish hearty, keeping you full longer and providing sustained energy throughout the day.
However, it’s essential to enjoy this dish in moderation, as it can be higher in calories and fat due to the sausage and cheese.
Common Mistakes and Tips to Perfect the Recipe
To ensure your casserole turns out perfectly every time, here are some common mistakes to avoid and tips to keep in mind:
- Using thawed instead of frozen hashbrowns can result in a soggy casserole. Always use frozen for the best texture.
- Overcooking the sausage can lead to a dry texture. Cook until just browned and drain excess grease.
- Mixing the ingredients too vigorously can break down the hashbrowns. Fold gently to maintain texture.
- Advanced Tip: For added flavor, consider seasoning the sausage with herbs or spices of your choice while cooking.
Storage, Serving, and Reheating Tips
This casserole is perfect for meal prep or serving a crowd. Here’s how to best store, serve, and reheat:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- To freeze, cut into portions, wrap tightly, and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
- When reheating, microwave individual portions or place the entire casserole back in the oven at 350°F until heated through.
Serving Suggestion: Pair this casserole with fresh fruit or a light salad for a balanced meal.
FAQs and Recipe Variations
Can I use fresh hashbrowns instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh hashbrowns, but they will need to be cooked beforehand to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.
What can I substitute for breakfast sausage?
Turkey sausage, chicken sausage, or a plant-based sausage can be used as healthier alternatives.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it in the morning.
Recipe Variations:
- Add diced bell peppers or mushrooms for extra vegetables.
- Swap cheddar cheese for pepper jack for a spicy kick.
- Incorporate different herbs like thyme or rosemary for added flavor.
Conclusion
The Sausage, Egg, and Cream Cheese Hashbrown Casserole is a delightful way to start your day, combining hearty ingredients into a deliciously satisfying meal. With its creamy texture, savory sausage, and crispy hashbrowns, it’s no wonder this dish has become a breakfast favorite. So gather your ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy a breakfast that’s both simple and extraordinary!