Creamy Breakfast Sausage Egg Bake

This hearty sausage, egg, and cream cheese casserole has been my weekend breakfast solution whenever family visits. The combination of savory sausage, fluffy eggs, and creamy cheese creates a dish that disappears within minutes at the table.

I first made this casserole when my in-laws came for an extended holiday visit. With eight hungry people to feed each morning, this became our go-to solution that kept everyone satisfied until lunchtime.

Ingredients

• Breakfast sausage delivers rich savory flavor and protein that makes this casserole satisfying
• Frozen shredded hash browns create the perfect starchy base without any prep work
• Large eggs provide structure and that classic breakfast flavor we all crave
• Cream cheese adds an incredible creaminess that elevates this beyond basic breakfast casseroles
• Shredded cheddar cheese creates those irresistible melty pockets throughout the dish
• Whole milk helps create the perfect egg texture while adding richness
• Salt and pepper balance all flavors and enhance the sausage seasoning
• Garlic powder and onion powder add depth without having to chop fresh aromatics
• Green onions bring a fresh pop of color and mild onion flavor to finish the dish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Baking Dish:

Heat your oven to 375°F and generously grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. Make sure to coat the sides well as this helps with serving later.

Cook the Sausage:

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage until no pink remains. Break it into small crumbles as it cooks using a wooden spoon or spatula. This usually takes about 8 10 minutes. Drain the excess grease to prevent the casserole from becoming too oily.

Create the Egg Mixture:

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and softened cream cheese until completely smooth. This may take a couple of minutes of vigorous whisking to fully incorporate the cream cheese. Add the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder, continuing to whisk until well combined.

Combine All Ingredients:

Add the cooked sausage, frozen hash browns straight from the freezer, and shredded cheddar cheese to the egg mixture. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to fold everything together until all ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.

Assemble and Bake:

Pour the entire mixture into your prepared baking dish, making sure to spread it evenly to the corners. Use the back of a spoon to smooth the top. Place in the preheated oven and bake for 40 45 minutes. The casserole is done when the center is completely set and the top is golden brown with a slight puff.

Rest and Serve:

Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes before cutting. This brief cooling period helps it set up properly so your squares hold together better when served. If using green onions, sprinkle them over the top now, then cut into squares and serve while still warm.

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The cream cheese is what makes this casserole extraordinary. I discovered this secret ingredient when trying to use up some leftover cream cheese from a bagel breakfast. Now my family refuses to eat any breakfast casserole without it. The way it creates pockets of creamy goodness throughout the dish transforms an ordinary egg bake into something truly special.

Make-Ahead Instructions

This casserole is perfect for busy mornings or when entertaining guests. You can prepare the entire casserole the night before, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, remove it from the refrigerator while your oven preheats, then bake as directed. You may need to add an additional 5 10 minutes to the baking time since youre starting with cold ingredients.

Ingredient Substitutions

This recipe is incredibly versatile and forgiving. For a leaner option, substitute turkey sausage for the pork breakfast sausage. If youre looking for more heat, use hot Italian sausage or add a diced jalapeño to the egg mixture. For a vegetable boost, add 1 cup of sautéed bell peppers and onions or 2 cups of fresh spinach. Lactose sensitive guests can enjoy this with dairy free cream cheese and cheese alternatives, though the texture will be slightly different.

Serving Suggestions

This hearty casserole pairs wonderfully with lighter sides. Serve with a fresh fruit salad to balance the richness, or offer a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette for brunch gatherings. For an extra special touch, provide toppings like salsa, sour cream, avocado slices, or hot sauce so everyone can customize their portion. If youre serving a crowd for a special occasion, include a basket of warm biscuits or croissants alongside.

Storage Tips

This casserole keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Cut leftover portions into individual servings and store in airtight containers for quick grab and go breakfasts throughout the week. To reheat, microwave individual portions for 60 90 seconds or warm larger amounts in a 350°F oven for about 15 minutes until heated through. For longer storage, freeze portions wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 3 months.

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Recipe FAQs

→ Can I prepare this casserole the night before?

Yes! This casserole is perfect for prepping ahead. You can assemble the entire dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, remove it from the refrigerator while your oven preheats, then bake as directed, adding 5-10 minutes to the baking time since it will be cold.

→ Do I need to thaw the hash browns first?

No, you can use the frozen hash browns directly from the freezer. This actually helps the casserole maintain its structure during baking and saves you preparation time.

→ Can I substitute the breakfast sausage with something else?

Absolutely! Cooked and crumbled bacon, diced ham, or even cooked ground turkey would all work well as substitutes. For a vegetarian version, you could use sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, and spinach.

→ Why is my cream cheese lumpy in the mixture?

Cream cheese needs to be fully softened to room temperature before mixing to avoid lumps. If your cream cheese is still cold, try microwaving it for 20-30 seconds until soft but not melted, or beat it separately with an electric mixer before adding to the egg mixture.

→ How do I know when the casserole is done baking?

The casserole is done when the center is completely set (not jiggly) when you gently shake the pan, and the top is golden brown and slightly puffed. You can also insert a knife into the center - it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.

→ Can this casserole be frozen?

Yes, this casserole freezes well. You can freeze it either before or after baking. To freeze before baking, assemble completely, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking. For leftover baked casserole, portion into individual servings, wrap well, and freeze. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.