Sausage Egg Cream Cheese Bake

This sausage egg cream cheese casserole delivers warmth and comfort for busy mornings or holiday brunches. Savory sausage, fluffy eggs, and smooth cream cheese blend with hash browns and cheddar for a breakfast you can serve to a crowd or prep ahead to enjoy all week. Simple techniques ensure a golden cheesy top and a tender slice every time.

The first time I made this was a spontaneous brunch for friends and it turned into a regular request for every family holiday. Someone always sneaks back for seconds.

Ingredients

• One pound breakfast sausage: choose a type you love for the best flavor results taste test a few brands to find your favorite
• Thirty ounces frozen shredded hash browns: these stay fresh in the freezer and bring hearty potato texture check for brands without added salt if you like controlling the seasoning
• Eight large eggs: freshest possible eggs make a more custardy slice local or free range eggs work so well here
• Eight ounces cream cheese: at room temperature gives the casserole a silky finish so take time to soften fully
• One cup shredded cheddar cheese: fresh grated melts the best and gives a sharp flavor pre-shredded is fine in a pinch
• Half cup milk: any kind will work but whole milk gives the richest result
• One teaspoon salt: balances flavors sweet and savory
• Half teaspoon black pepper: offers subtle heat not overwhelming
• Half teaspoon garlic powder: layers flavor without the work of chopping fresh garlic
• Half teaspoon onion powder: rounds things out for that breakfast diner taste
• Two green onions chopped as garnish: totally optional but brings a fresh pop of color and flavor choose perky green onions with no wilt

Instructions

Sauté the Sausage:

Cook your chosen breakfast sausage in a nonstick skillet on medium heat. Use a spatula to break it into small crumbles stirring often until perfectly browned but not crispy. Drain off and discard any grease so the casserole is not heavy.

Mix the Creamy Base:

Add eggs milk room-temperature cream cheese salt pepper garlic powder and onion powder to a large mixing bowl. Whisk very thoroughly making sure the cream cheese is completely mixed in for a lump-free custard. Taking the time here creates a steadily smooth texture in every bite.

Combine Ingredients:

Add browned sausage frozen hash browns and grated cheddar to your egg mixture. Stir gently and patiently only until everything is evenly combined. Avoid vigorous mixing which will break down the hash browns and give a mushier result.

Transfer to Baking Dish:

Grease a nine by thirteen inch casserole dish all over to prevent sticking. Pour your mixture in and use a spatula to spread it out so the top is level.

Bake Until Set:

Move the dish to the center of a preheated 375 degree Fahrenheit oven. Bake for up to forty five minutes. When finished the center should feel set and not wobbly. The top will have a lovely golden color with little cheesy bubbles.

Cool and Serve:

Pull the casserole from the oven and let it rest for five to ten minutes. This wait makes the slices hold together cleanly. Finish with a sprinkle of chopped green onions across the top for color and bite. Serve while warm for the best experience.

The cream cheese makes this casserole irresistible for me and everyone at my table. The first time my family tried it they asked for seconds and now it is our go-to brunch centerpiece during holidays.

Storage Tips

Keep any leftovers tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to four days. Gently reheat slices in the microwave or oven at a low heat to keep them tender. For long-term storage wrap individual portions and freeze. Thaw overnight in the fridge and warm before serving.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you want a lighter bite substitute turkey sausage or your favorite vegetarian crumbles. Use mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese for a creamier finish or to change up the flavor. Any milk you prefer will work whether dairy or a favorite plant-based option so you can easily adapt for dietary needs.

Serving Suggestions

Pair a warm slice with crisp fruit or citrus salad for contrast. A scoop of sautéed greens on the side gives extra color and nutrition. The casserole also makes a filling midday meal with green salad and fresh bread or even works as a brunch potluck centerpiece.

This casserole brings everyone back for seconds and creates a memorable brunch centerpiece. Try it once and it may become a new family tradition.

Common Questions About the Recipe

→ What sausage works best for this dish?

Breakfast sausage with mild to medium seasoning blends complements the creamy and cheesy ingredients perfectly.

→ Can I substitute frozen hash browns with fresh potatoes?

Yes, but make sure to shred fresh potatoes finely and drain excess moisture to prevent a soggy texture.

→ Why does cream cheese need to be softened?

Softened cream cheese blends easily with eggs, helping create a smooth, creamy base without lumps.

→ How can I tell when it’s done baking?

The center should be firm and the top golden brown, typically after 40–45 minutes at 375°F (190°C).

→ Can this be prepared ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the dish and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking. Allow a little extra bake time if chilled.