Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole with Sausage, Egg, and Cream Cheese is a hearty and delicious dish that’s perfect for breakfast or brunch. This casserole combines the flavors of crispy hash browns, savory sausage, creamy cheese, and fluffy eggs to create a satisfying meal that everyone will love. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the ingredients, instructions, and tips for making the perfect breakfast casserole. Additionally, we’ll provide variations and address frequently asked questions to ensure you achieve the best results.
Ingredients
For the Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole:
- 1 pound cooked and crumbled breakfast sausage
- 4 cups frozen hash browns, thawed
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup softened cream cheese
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- Fresh thyme, minced (to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Freshly chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Cook Sausage: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage until browned and crumbled. Drain any excess fat and set aside.
- Thaw Hash Browns: Ensure the hash browns are fully thawed and pat them dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture.
Step 2: Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Dish
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease Baking Dish: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a small amount of oil.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
- Layer Hash Browns: Spread the thawed hash browns evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Add Sausage: Sprinkle the cooked and crumbled sausage over the hash browns.
- Add Cheddar Cheese: Evenly distribute the shredded cheddar cheese over the sausage layer.
- Cream Cheese Dollops: Drop small dollops of the softened cream cheese evenly over the cheese and sausage.
Step 4: Prepare the Egg Mixture
- Beat Eggs: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until well combined.
- Season: Add the minced fresh thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the egg mixture. Whisk again to incorporate.
Step 5: Combine and Bake
- Pour Egg Mixture: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layers in the baking dish, ensuring it covers all the ingredients.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown.
- Cool Slightly: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before slicing.
Step 6: Serve
- Garnish: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
- Serve Warm: Serve the casserole warm, and enjoy!
Cooking Notes and Variations
Cooking Notes
- Hash Browns: Ensure hash browns are fully thawed and dry to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.
- Cream Cheese: Soften the cream cheese at room temperature to make it easier to dollop and spread.
Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the sausage with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers for a vegetarian version.
- Spicy Casserole: Add diced jalapenos or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the egg mixture for a spicy kick.
- Different Cheeses: Use different types of cheese such as mozzarella, pepper jack, or Swiss for varied flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole the night before and refrigerate it. Bake it in the morning for a fresh and hot breakfast.
Q2: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven.
Q3: Can I freeze this casserole?
A: Yes, you can freeze the baked casserole. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Q4: What can I serve with this breakfast casserole?
A: This casserole pairs well with fresh fruit, a side salad, or toast. It’s also great with a dollop of sour cream or salsa on top.
Q5: Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?
A: Yes, you can use fresh grated potatoes. Be sure to squeeze out any excess moisture before using them in the casserole.
Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole with Sausage, Egg, and Cream Cheese is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any breakfast or brunch. With its hearty layers of hash browns, sausage, and cheese, combined with a creamy egg mixture, it’s sure to be a hit with family and friends. Follow these simple steps and tips to create a tasty and satisfying casserole that everyone will love. Serve this delightful casserole warm for the best experience!
Whether you’re hosting a brunch, preparing a special breakfast, or looking for a make-ahead meal, this Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole recipe is an excellent choice. Enjoy the rich flavors and the ease of preparation, and feel free to experiment with different variations to make this recipe your own.