Sausage Cream Cheese Casserole: A Deliciously Easy Recipe for Any Meal

Sausage Cream Cheese Casserole is a delightful dish that has quickly become a favorite in my household. The creamy texture combined with the savory flavor of sausage creates a comforting meal that is perfect for any occasion. This casserole is not just a recipe; it’s a warm hug on a plate, ideal for breakfast, brunch, or even a cozy dinner. The origins of this dish can be traced back to the heart of American comfort food, where casseroles have long been a staple for busy families looking for convenience without sacrificing taste.

What I love most about Sausage Cream Cheese Casserole is how it brings people together. The rich, creamy filling paired with the hearty sausage makes for a satisfying dish that pleases even the pickiest eaters. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it a go-to recipe for busy mornings or last-minute gatherings. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a delicious meal that everyone will rave about. Trust me, once you try this casserole, it will become a beloved recipe in your home as well!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound breakfast sausage (I prefer mild, but you can use spicy if you like a kick)
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional, for a little extra flavor)
• 1 cup frozen hash browns (optional, for added texture)
• Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)

Preparing the Sausage

1. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your casserole cooks evenly and thoroughly. 2. In a large skillet over medium heat, add the pound of breakfast sausage. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to break it up into smaller pieces as it cooks. I like to use a spatula because it helps me get a nice even browning on the sausage. 3. Cook the sausage for about 5-7 minutes, or until it’s browned and no longer pink. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the pan. 4. Once the sausage is cooked, drain any excess grease from the skillet. I usually tilt the pan slightly and use a spoon to scoop out the grease, but be careful not to lose any sausage in the process!

Mixing the Cream Cheese

5. In a large mixing bowl, add the softened cream cheese. If it’s too firm, you can microwave it for about 15-20 seconds to soften it up a bit more. 6. Using a hand mixer or a whisk, beat the cream cheese until it’s smooth and creamy. This step is crucial because it helps to incorporate the cream cheese evenly throughout the casserole. 7. Next, add the shredded cheddar cheese and mozzarella cheese to the bowl. Stir until the cheeses are well combined with the cream cheese. 8. Now, it’s time to add the eggs. Crack the four large eggs into the bowl, followed by the cup of milk. 9. Sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and paprika (if using). Mix everything together until it’s well combined. I like to use a spatula for this part to ensure I get all the ingredients mixed evenly.

Combining Ingredients

10. Once your sausage is cooked and drained, add it to the cream cheese mixture. If you’re using frozen hash browns, you can add them at this point as well. 11. Gently fold the sausage (and hash browns, if using) into the cream cheese mixture until everything is evenly coated. Be careful not to overmix, as you want to keep some texture in the casserole. 12. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a little bit of butter. This will help prevent the casserole from sticking to the dish. 13. Pour the sausage and cream cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.

Baking the Casserole

14. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the edges are golden brown and the center is set. 15. If you want a little extra color on top, you can broil the casserole for an additional 2-3 minutes, but keep a close eye on it to prevent burning. 16. Once it’s done baking, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 5-10 minutes. This will help it set a bit more and make it easier to cut into portions.

Serving the Casserole

17. Using a sharp knife, cut the casserole into squares or rectangles, depending on your preference. I usually aim for about 8-10 servings, but you can adjust based on how hungry everyone is! 18. If you’d like, you can garnish each serving with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and added flavor. It’s a nice touch that makes the dish look even more appetizing. 19. Serve the casserole warm, and enjoy! This dish is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a cozy dinner. It’s hearty, filling, and packed with flavor.

Storing Leftovers

20. If you

Conclusion:

In summary, this Sausage Cream Cheese Casserole is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to impress their family or guests with a delicious and hearty dish. The combination of savory sausage, creamy cheese, and fluffy eggs creates a comforting meal that is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a cozy dinner. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it a fantastic option for busy mornings or last-minute gatherings. For serving suggestions, consider pairing this casserole with a fresh fruit salad or some crispy hash browns for a complete meal. If you want to mix things up, feel free to experiment with different types of sausage, such as spicy Italian or turkey sausage, or add in some sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for an extra nutritional boost. You can also swap out the cream cheese for a lighter option, like Greek yogurt, if you’re looking to reduce calories without sacrificing flavor. I encourage you to give this Sausage Cream Cheese Casserole a try and share your experience with friends and family. I’d love to hear how it turns out for you! Whether you stick to the classic recipe or make your own variations, I’m sure you’ll find it to be a delightful addition to your meal rotation. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and enjoy the deliciousness that awaits you! Print