Sausage Cream Cheese Casserole Recipe

If you are looking for a hearty breakfast or brunch dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Sausage Cream Cheese Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. It combines savory breakfast sausage with creamy, dreamy cream cheese and sharp cheddar, all layered over a flaky biscuit or crispy hashbrowns base. Each bite offers a perfect balance of rich textures and comforting flavors, making it a go-to dish for family gatherings or lazy weekend mornings. Let’s dive into how to make this crowd-pleaser your new favorite!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Sausage Cream Cheese Casserole Recipe is in its simplicity—each ingredient plays a crucial role to deliver amazing flavor and satisfying textures. From the savory sausage to the tangy cream cheese and gooey cheddar, every component is essential.

• 1 lb breakfast sausage: Choose pork or turkey depending on your preference for a juicy, flavorful protein base.
• 8 oz cream cheese (softened): This adds a luscious, smooth creaminess that ties the casserole together beautifully.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar offers a perfect melty, tangy layer on top and inside the casserole.
• 1/2 cup milk: Adds moisture and helps create a creamy texture in the cheese mixture.
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder: A subtle kick of garlic flavor without overpowering the dish.
• 1/4 tsp onion powder: Enhances the savory depth with a touch of sweetness.
• 1/2 tsp dried parsley (optional): For a splash of color and mild herbaceous note.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasoning that brings out all the other flavors.
• 6 large eggs: Eggs bind the casserole and provide that classic breakfast casserole feel.
• 1 can refrigerated biscuit dough or 4 cups frozen hashbrowns: Biscuit dough creates a flaky crust, while hashbrowns give a crispy, hearty base.
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional): Adds a nutty, savory boost on top if you like extra flavor complexity.
• 1 tbsp butter: For greasing the baking dish to keep everything from sticking and add subtle richness.

How to Make Sausage Cream Cheese Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s heating up, generously grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter to ensure your casserole cooks evenly and releases easily after baking. This simple prep step sets the stage for everything to come.

Step 2: Cook the Sausage

Next, cook the breakfast sausage in a large skillet over medium heat. Break it apart into crumbles as it browns, making sure it’s fully cooked through. Drain any excess grease if needed to keep the casserole from becoming too oily. The flavorful browned sausage pieces will be the heart of this dish.

Step 3: Whip Up the Cream Cheese Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese with milk, garlic powder, onion powder, parsley (if using), and season with salt and pepper. Beat this mixture until it’s creamy and smooth using a hand mixer or whisk. This rich and tangy layer brings a lovely softness to the casserole.

Step 4: Layer the Base

If you’re going with the biscuit dough, tear it into small pieces and spread evenly over the bottom of your prepared dish. Alternatively, spread frozen hashbrowns evenly to create a crispy, golden base. Both options add different but delicious textures to the final bake.

Step 5: Add the Sausage Layer

Evenly spread the cooked sausage crumbles over the biscuit dough or hashbrown layer. This builds a solid, savory foundation for the creamy topping and eggs.

Step 6: Pour the Cream Cheese Mixture

Drizzle the cream cheese mixture evenly across the sausage layer. Its smooth consistency will gently seep into the layers during baking, creating moist and flavorful pockets.

Step 7: Add Eggs and Cheese

Crack the 6 large eggs over the casserole, watching them nestle into the layers below. Then sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top for bubbly, golden perfection. If you want extra flavor, this is the perfect time to add the grated Parmesan cheese as well.

Step 8: Bake Until Golden and Set

Place your assembled casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the eggs have fully set, and the top is beautifully golden and bubbly. The smell alone will have everyone eagerly waiting to dig in!

Step 9: Rest and Serve

After removing it from the oven, let the casserole cool for a few minutes. This helps it firm up for easier slicing and serving. Then you’re all set to enjoy this cozy, savory delight.

How to Serve Sausage Cream Cheese Casserole Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes like chopped green onions or a sprinkle of fresh parsley can add a lively pop of color and freshness that contrasts beautifully with the rich casserole. A few dashes of hot sauce or a dollop of sour cream also make delightful flavor enhancers.

Side Dishes

This casserole pairs wonderfully with light sides like a crisp green salad or fresh fruit salad to balance out the richness. For a cozy touch, serve alongside buttered toast or warm dinner rolls that help soak up every delicious bite.

Creative Ways to Present

Try turning this casserole into individual servings by baking in muffin tins for perfect grab-and-go portions. You could also serve it family-style in the baking dish, surrounded by small bowls of garnishes and sides to let everyone customize their plates. Either way, the comforting layers will steal the show.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Sausage Cream Cheese Casserole Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This allows the flavors to continue blending and makes for an easy next-day breakfast or lunch.

Freezing

You can freeze portions of the casserole either before baking or after cooling cooked leftovers. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or use freezer-safe containers. It will keep well for up to 2 months and can be thawed overnight in the refrigerator.

Reheating

Reheat refrigerated or thawed casserole portions in the microwave or oven at 350°F until warmed through. Cover loosely with foil if reheating in the oven to prevent drying out. This keeps the texture creamy and the cheese melty as if freshly baked.

FAQs

Can I use turkey sausage instead of pork?

Absolutely! Turkey sausage is a great leaner alternative that still delivers plenty of flavor. Just make sure to fully cook it before assembling the casserole.

What can I substitute for cream cheese?

If you want to lighten the dish, you can try using ricotta cheese or a mix of cream cheese and Greek yogurt. Both will add creaminess with a slightly different texture.

Is this casserole suitable for freezing?

Yes, the Sausage Cream Cheese Casserole Recipe freezes beautifully. For best results, freeze before baking or freeze leftovers promptly to maintain freshness and flavor.

Can I prepare this casserole the night before?

You can assemble the casserole the night before and store it covered in the refrigerator. When ready, just pop it in a preheated oven and bake as directed; you may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

What sides go best with this casserole?

Light, fresh sides like a green salad, fresh fruit, or simple roasted vegetables complement the richness perfectly. Toast or warm rolls add a comforting touch to round out the meal.

Final Thoughts

This Sausage Cream Cheese Casserole Recipe is a total game-changer when you want a dish that feels both indulgent and easy to prepare. With layers of creamy, cheesy, and savory goodness, it’s sure to become a staple for your breakfasts and brunches. Give it a try, and I promise you’ll be reaching for this recipe again and again.

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