Sausage Egg Cream Cheese Bake

This sausage egg cream cheese casserole is a comforting dish that brings together the warmth of browned sausage, the creaminess of eggs and cream cheese, and the satisfying texture of shredded hash browns and cheddar cheese. It's a perfect choice for busy mornings or leisurely weekend brunches, offering a rich, savory flavor that everyone will enjoy. The dish bakes into a golden, set casserole that slices beautifully and is finished with fresh green onions for a pop of color and brightness.

I first made this during an unexpected brunch gathering with friends, and it quickly became a favorite goto dish whenever I want something warm, filling, and fussfree.

Ingredients

• Breakfast sausage: One pound choose your favorite type to get the best flavor and texture
• Frozen shredded hash browns: Thirty ounces these add a satisfying potato element and store well for convenience
• Large eggs: Eight these give the casserole structure and richness
• Cream cheese: Eight ounces softened at room temperature this makes the casserole creamy and smooth so avoid lumps
• Shredded cheddar cheese: One cup freshly shredded is best to boost the sharpness and meltiness
• Milk: Half cup which thins the mixture slightly for even baking and a tender texture
• Salt: One teaspoon for seasoning the entire dish evenly
• Black pepper: Half teaspoon for subtle heat and balance
• Garlic powder: Half teaspoon adds flavor depth without fresh garlic prep
• Onion powder: Half teaspoon to complement the garlic and enhance savory notes
• Green onions: Two chopped for garnish optional but adds fresh color and a mild bite

Instructions

Sauté the Sausage:

Cook the breakfast sausage in a skillet over medium heat. Break it up gently with a spatula and cook until fully browned but not overly crisp. Drain any excess fat thoroughly so the casserole remains rich but not greasy.

Mix the Creamy Base:

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and softened cream cheese along with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Make sure the cream cheese is completely blended to avoid lumps. This creates a rich custard that will hold the casserole together.

Combine Ingredients:

Add the cooked sausage, frozen hash browns, and shredded cheddar cheese into the egg mixture. Stir gently until everything is evenly combined. Avoid overmixing or the hash browns can become mushy.

Transfer to Baking Dish:

Grease a 9 by 13 inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking. Pour the mixture into the dish and smooth the top with a spatula for even baking.

Bake Until Set:

Place the dish in a preheated oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit or 190 Celsius. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes. The casserole is done when the center feels firm and the top is golden brown.

Cool and Serve:

Let the casserole cool for about five minutes before slicing. This rest time helps it hold together for neat slices. Sprinkle with chopped green onions for garnish. Serve warm for the best taste.

I really love how the cream cheese adds a touch of indulgence without making it heavy. One holiday brunch, my family had this for the first time and immediately requested it again — it felt special to share that moment over this comforting meal.

Storage Tips

Store leftover casserole covered in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or oven to keep it moist rather than drying it out. Leftovers can also be frozen in tightly wrapped portions and thawed overnight before reheating for a quick breakfast later.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a lighter or meat free option, swap the breakfast sausage with ground turkey or vegetarian sausage. You can substitute cheddar with mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheeses for a milder, creamy taste. Whole milk can be swapped with any milk type you prefer including non dairy alternatives like almond or oat milk without affecting texture much.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit which adds natural sweetness. A crisp green salad or sautéed greens make for a hearty brunch side dish. A simple cup of coffee or a glass of fresh juice complements the meal well for a balanced breakfast spread.

Garnish with chopped green onions and serve warm for best texture and flavor. This casserole is ideal for prepping ahead as makeahead portions you can reheat for an easy breakfast.

Common Recipe Questions

→ What type of sausage works best for this bake?

Breakfast sausage with mild to medium seasoning complements the creamy and cheesy elements without overpowering the dish.

→ Can fresh potatoes replace frozen hash browns?

Fresh potatoes should be finely shredded and well-drained to prevent excess moisture that can make the bake soggy.

→ Why soften the cream cheese before mixing?

Softened cream cheese blends smoothly with eggs and milk, creating an even, creamy texture without lumps.

→ How to ensure the bake sets properly?

Bake at 375°F for 40-45 minutes until firm in the center and golden on top to achieve the right custard-like consistency.

→ Can this dish be prepared ahead?

Yes, mix ingredients and refrigerate covered for up to 24 hours before baking, though baking time may increase slightly.