Craving a warm, hearty meal that pleases the whole family? Look no further than my Sausage, Egg, and Cream Cheese Hashbrown Casserole Delight! This easy dish packs flavor and comfort in every bite. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create the perfect brunch or potluck centerpiece. Join me as I walk you through how to whip up this delicious casserole that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 1 pound breakfast sausage, crumbled
– 4 cups frozen shredded hashbrowns, thawed
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 6 large eggs
– 1 cup milk (or a dairy-free alternative)
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
For this dish, I love using high-quality sausage. It adds great flavor. The cream cheese makes the casserole rich and creamy. The hashbrowns provide a nice base, while the eggs bind everything together.
Nutritional Information
Each serving has about 350 calories. You get 30 grams of carbs, 20 grams of protein, and 22 grams of fat. This dish is filling and satisfying.
Special Equipment Needed
– Measuring cups and spoons
– Mixing bowls
– Baking dish (9×13 inch)
– Skillet
These tools help you mix and bake the casserole just right. I find using a good skillet makes cooking the sausage easier. A quality baking dish ensures even cooking, too. If you have these items, you’re all set to make this delicious meal! For the full recipe, check out the instructions.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
– Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
– Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
Cooking the Sausage
– In a skillet, cook the crumbled breakfast sausage over medium heat until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
– Drain any excess grease from the sausage.
Combining Ingredients
– In a large bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth and well blended.
– Stir in the thawed hashbrowns and half of the cheddar cheese until evenly combined.
– Fold in the cooked sausage to the hashbrown mixture.
– In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs. Pour the eggs over the mixture, stirring until everything is coated.
Baking the Casserole
– Pour the entire mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it evenly and top with the remaining cheddar cheese.
– Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the casserole is set and the cheese is golden and bubbly.
For the full recipe, check out the complete instructions!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting Your Casserole
To make this casserole just right, start by soaking your hashbrowns. Soaking helps remove extra starch, leading to a crispier texture. After baking, let the casserole rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This step helps the layers hold together better.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish warm for the best taste. You can pair it with salsa or hot sauce for extra flavor. This casserole shines at brunch or potlucks. It’s filling and sure to please a crowd.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake is overcooking the sausage. Keep an eye on it, and only cook until browned. Also, avoid slicing the casserole right after baking. Letting it cool a bit makes serving easier. For the full recipe, check out the Cheesy Sausage & Hashbrown Delight!
Variations
Ingredient Swaps
You can easily change a few items to suit your needs. Try using turkey sausage or plant-based sausage for a healthier option. They still give you that tasty flavor without all the fat. If you want a different cheese, just swap cheddar for mozzarella or pepper jack. Each choice adds a unique twist to this dish.
Flavor Additions
To make your casserole even better, add some diced bell peppers or spinach. These veggies boost nutrition and color. For those who like a little heat, sprinkle in some paprika or cayenne. These spices give your dish a nice kick and make it more exciting.
Dietary Variations
If you need a gluten-free option, look for hashbrowns made without gluten additives. Many brands offer this now. For those who are dairy-free, you can use alternative cheeses. They melt well and taste great, letting everyone enjoy this meal.
Feel free to explore these variations and find what works best for you. Whether you go for swaps or additions, your sausage, egg, and cream cheese hashbrown casserole will shine. You can check out the Full Recipe for more ideas!
Storage Info
Refrigeration
To store leftovers in the fridge, first let the casserole cool. Then, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. You can also use an airtight container. This keeps the dish fresh and tasty. Enjoy your leftovers within 3 to 4 days for the best flavor.
Freezing Instructions
To freeze this casserole, let it cool completely. Cut it into portions for easy use. Wrap each portion in plastic wrap, then in foil. This double layer prevents freezer burn. You can freeze it for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Then, reheat in the oven at 350°F until warm.
Meal Prep Ideas
For meal prep, consider making this casserole on a Sunday. This way, you have meals ready for the week. You can store individual portions in containers. It makes quick meals easy. Just grab a portion, reheat, and enjoy! This dish works great for breakfast or lunch.
FAQs
Can I make the casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead. First, make the mixture as directed in the recipe. Then, cover it and store it in the fridge overnight. This makes it easy to bake in the morning. If you want to freeze it, place the unbaked casserole in a freezer-safe dish. Seal it well and freeze. To bake later, thaw it in the fridge for a day before cooking.
How do I know when the casserole is done?
Check the casserole at about 45 minutes. The top should be golden brown. Use a knife to poke the center. If it comes out clean, the casserole is ready. The edges may puff up a bit, and the cheese should be bubbly. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Can I use fresh hashbrowns instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh hashbrowns. They will have a different texture than frozen ones. You may need to cook them for a few minutes before mixing. This helps remove excess moisture. If using fresh, chop them finely for even cooking.
This blog post covers a tasty breakfast casserole recipe, from ingredients to cooking tips. You learned about key ingredients like sausage, hashbrowns, and cheese. I shared step-by-step instructions and common mistakes to avoid. Variations let you customize your dish to fit different diets. Don’t forget storage tips for leftovers!
This casserole is simple and perfect for any meal. Enjoy cooking and sharing it with friends!
