This casserole is a one-pan breakfast wonder that layers crispy hashbrowns, savory sausage, fluffy eggs, and tangy cream cheese into a golden, bubbly bake. It’s perfect for brunch gatherings, holiday mornings, or meal prepping for busy weekdays. The cream cheese adds a luscious texture, while the sausage brings bold flavor and the hashbrowns offer a satisfying crunch. With minimal prep and maximum comfort, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb breakfast sausage (crumbled and browned)
- 1 (30 oz) bag frozen shredded hashbrowns, thawed
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 8 large eggs
- ½ cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional for extra gooeyness)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp salt
- Cooking spray or butter (for greasing the dish)
Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prep
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
2. Cook the Sausage
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage until browned and fully cooked.
- Drain excess grease and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté chopped onion for 3–4 minutes until soft and fragrant.
3. Mix the Egg Base
- In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Add softened cream cheese and whisk until fully incorporated.
- Stir in the sautéed onions.
4. Combine the Casserole
- In a separate bowl, mix thawed hashbrowns with the cooked sausage.
- Add the hashbrown-sausage mixture to the egg base and stir to combine.
- Fold in cheddar and mozzarella cheese.
5. Assemble and Bake
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
- Bake uncovered for 45–50 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden and bubbly.
- For a crispier top, broil for 2–3 minutes at the end—watch closely!
6. Cool and Serve
- Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing.
- Serve warm with fresh fruit, toast, or a dollop of sour cream.
Serving Suggestions:
- Pair with avocado slices or a simple green salad.
- Serve with salsa or hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Add a side of fresh berries or citrus wedges for balance.
Tips & Variations:
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Assemble the night before and bake in the morning.
- Vegetarian Option: Swap sausage for sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers.
- Spicy Twist: Use hot sausage or add diced jalapeños.
- Sugar-Free Friendly: Use dairy-free cream cheese and skip the mozzarella.
- Mini Version: Bake in muffin tins for individual servings—great for grab-and-go!
This casserole is creamy, savory, and totally satisfying—just the kind of comfort food magic you love to whip up. Want to try a tropical breakfast bake next or maybe a sugar-free brunch twist? I’ve got plenty more delicious ideas to share!