Sausage & Cream Cheese Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole: A Hearty Make-Ahead Morning Favorite

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Sausage & Cream Cheese Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole is the kind of dish that turns any morning into something special. It is rich, filling, and comforting, making it ideal for weekends, holidays, or busy mornings when you want a dependable make-ahead option. I love how this casserole combines crispy hash browns, savory sausage, and a creamy cheese mixture into one satisfying bite. The cream cheese melts into the eggs, creating a smooth, luxurious texture that feels indulgent without being complicated. I first made this for a family brunch, and it quickly became the most requested breakfast dish at the table. It is easy to assemble, bakes beautifully, and reheats well, which makes it perfect for feeding a crowd with minimal stress.

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Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Frozen hash browns form the base of the casserole and provide hearty texture once baked.

Breakfast sausage adds savory flavor and richness, balancing the mild potatoes perfectly.

Cream cheese creates a creamy, slightly tangy element that sets this casserole apart.

Eggs bind all the ingredients together and give the dish structure.

Shredded cheddar cheese adds sharpness and classic breakfast flavor.

Milk helps loosen the egg mixture and keeps the casserole tender.

Yellow onion adds subtle sweetness and depth once cooked.

Garlic powder enhances savory flavor without overpowering the dish.

Salt sharpens and balances the overall taste.

Black pepper adds mild warmth and seasoning.

Butter helps prevent sticking and adds richness to the base.

Fresh chives add freshness and a mild onion flavor for finishing.

Directions

Begin by preheating the oven and greasing a baking dish with butter. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage until browned and fully cooked, breaking it into small pieces. Remove from heat and drain excess fat if needed. Stir in the softened cream cheese while the sausage is still warm, mixing until mostly smooth. Set aside.

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Add the frozen hash browns, cooked sausage mixture, chopped onion, and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until everything is evenly combined.

Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Bake until the casserole is set in the center and lightly golden on top. Allow it to rest briefly before slicing. Garnish with fresh chives before serving.

Equipment needed :

Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling

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 casserole serves six to eight people. Preparation takes about twenty minutes, and baking time is approximately forty-five minutes.

Storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire dish in the oven until heated through.

Variations and Customizations

This breakfast casserole is highly adaptable. For a spicier version, use hot breakfast sausage or add a pinch of red pepper flakes. I tried adding diced jalapeños once, and they gave the dish a pleasant kick without overwhelming the flavors.

You can also swap cheddar cheese for Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, or a blend of cheeses depending on what you have on hand. For added vegetables, bell peppers or spinach work well and add color and freshness.

If you prefer a lighter version, use turkey sausage and reduced-fat cream cheese. You can also assemble the casserole the night before, cover it tightly, and bake it fresh in the morning for an easy, stress-free breakfast.

Nutrition and Dietary Info

This casserole is high in protein from eggs and sausage and provides energy-rich carbohydrates from the potatoes. Dairy adds calcium and richness, making it a filling breakfast option that keeps you satisfied for hours.

Expert Tips & Customizations

Soften cream cheese first
Softened cream cheese blends more smoothly with sausage.

Do not thaw hash browns
Using them frozen prevents excess moisture.

Let casserole rest
Resting helps it set and slice cleanly.

Season thoughtfully
Sausage can be salty, so taste before adding extra salt.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, it can be assembled the night before and baked in the morning.

Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, freeze after baking and cool completely before storing.

What type of hash browns work best?

Shredded frozen hash browns are ideal.

Can I use fresh potatoes?

Yes, but shred and remove excess moisture first.

Is this casserole gluten-free?

Yes, as long as the sausage is gluten-free.

Can I add vegetables?

Yes, peppers, spinach, or mushrooms work well.

How do I know when it is done?

The center should be set and not jiggly.

Can I use milk alternatives?

Yes, unsweetened dairy-free milk can be used.

What cheese melts best?

Cheddar and Monterey Jack melt evenly.

What can I serve with this?

Fresh fruit or a light salad pairs well.

Conclusion

Sausage & Cream Cheese Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole is a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that delivers big flavor with minimal effort. Whether for a relaxed weekend brunch or a make-ahead weekday breakfast, it is a reliable recipe that brings warmth, satisfaction, and ease to the table.

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