If you are searching for a hearty, comforting breakfast or brunch dish that brings everyone to the table with smiles, this Sausage Cream Cheese Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a creamy, savory delight combining rich cream cheese, flavorful sausage, cheesy goodness, and a fluffy base of biscuits or hashbrowns, baked to golden perfection. Whether it’s a busy weekday morning or a lazy weekend gathering, this casserole will quickly become your go-to for easy prep and big, satisfying flavors.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Sausage Cream Cheese Casserole Recipe lies in its simplicity and the way each ingredient plays a vital role. Every item is easy to find, and together they create a symphony of creamy, savory, and cheesy textures and tastes that make this casserole irresistible.
- Breakfast sausage (1 lb): Choose pork or turkey sausage for a flavorful and meaty base.
- Cream cheese (8 oz, softened): Adds luscious creaminess and binds the casserole beautifully.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup plus extra): For that gooey, melty, tangy finish that everyone loves.
- Milk (1/2 cup): Lightens the cream cheese mixture, ensuring a smooth texture.
- Garlic powder (1/2 tsp): Brings subtle savory warmth without overpowering.
- Onion powder (1/4 tsp): Adds depth and balances the flavors perfectly.
- Dried parsley (1/2 tsp, optional): A fresh herb touch for a mild brightness.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning to taste and enhancing all the flavors.
- Large eggs (6): Provide structure and richness to the casserole.
- Refrigerated biscuit dough (10 oz) or frozen hashbrowns (4 cups): Your choice for the hearty base layer that soaks up all the deliciousness.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup, optional): Sprinkle on top for an extra savory, nutty dimension.
- Butter (1 tbsp): For greasing the baking dish and adding a golden crust.
How to Make Sausage Cream Cheese Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter to ensure the casserole doesn’t stick and develops a lovely crust on the bottom and edges.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook your breakfast sausage until it’s browned and fully cooked through. Use a spoon to break it into small crumbles, and if needed, drain off any excess grease to keep the casserole from becoming too oily. Set this savory sausage aside for layering.
Step 3: Blend the Cream Cheese Mixture
In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese together with milk, garlic powder, onion powder, dried parsley if you’re using it, salt, and pepper. Whisk until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy, lending the casserole its signature rich and silky texture.
Step 4: Assemble the Base
Decide on your base—if using biscuit dough, tear it into small pieces and spread them evenly across the bottom of your greased dish. For the hashbrown option, evenly layer the frozen hashbrowns straight into the dish. Both options offer a sturdy and tasty foundation that soaks up all the flavors above.
Step 5: Add Sausage and Cream Cheese Mixture
Scatter the cooked sausage evenly over the biscuit pieces or hashbrowns. Then pour the smooth cream cheese mixture evenly over the sausage, making sure it’s nicely distributed so every bite is creamy and flavorful.
Step 6: Add Eggs and Cheese
Carefully crack the eggs over the assembled layers. Six eggs are perfect for this size dish, but you can adjust to fit your pan if needed. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese generously on top and, if desired, finish with a sprinkling of grated Parmesan for that extra burst of savory goodness.
Step 7: Bake Until Perfect
Place your casserole into the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. You’re looking for the eggs to be fully set and the top to turn golden and bubbly. The aroma alone will have your kitchen smelling like breakfast heaven.
Step 8: Rest and Serve
Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes after baking. This little patience step helps the casserole to set so it slices up neatly, making serving a breeze and keeping all those layers intact.
How to Serve Sausage Cream Cheese Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives work beautifully as garnishes, adding a fresh pop of color and a gentle burst of freshness to each slice. A light dusting of paprika can bring warmth and a vibrant hue to the top, making it even more inviting.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs wonderfully with simple, crisp sides. Consider a fresh green salad, roasted asparagus, or sautéed spinach to balance the richness. If it’s brunch, fresh fruit or a tangy tomato salad creates a perfect contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the casserole in individual ramekins or muffin tins to create personal servings. Another idea is to layer it in a clear baking dish so you can show off the appetizing layers. For a crowd, a buffet-style serving allows everyone to customize their portions with extra toppings like hot sauce, salsa, or sour cream.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover Sausage Cream Cheese Casserole Recipe should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It keeps well for up to 3 to 4 days and makes for excellent next-day breakfast or lunch that snacks back just like freshly baked.
Freezing
This casserole also freezes beautifully. Cool it completely, then wrap tightly in aluminum foil or place in a freezer-safe container. It will maintain its delicious texture and flavor for up to 2 months in the freezer—perfect for prepping meals ahead of busy weeks.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen, then warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 to 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual slices for a quicker option, but the oven method will keep the texture perfectly fluffy and melty.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese in the Sausage Cream Cheese Casserole Recipe?
Absolutely! While cheddar is classic, feel free to experiment with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even Pepper Jack for a bit of spice. Mixing cheeses can add layers of flavor that are just as delicious.
Is it possible to make this casserole vegetarian?
Yes, swap the breakfast sausage for a plant-based sausage alternative or use sautéed mushrooms and bell peppers for a hearty, meat-free version that still tastes incredible.
Can I prepare this casserole the night before?
Definitely! Assemble everything in the baking dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, simply bake it fresh for the full 30-35 minutes. It’s a great time saver for busy mornings.
What is the best choice between biscuits or hashbrowns as a base?
Both work well, but biscuits give a fluffy, bread-like texture while hashbrowns keep things crispy and slightly denser. Choose based on your texture preference or what you have on hand!
Can I double this Sausage Cream Cheese Casserole Recipe for larger gatherings?
Yes! Just use a larger baking dish and adjust baking time slightly, checking for the eggs to be fully set. It’s perfect for feeding a big family or group of friends.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Sausage Cream Cheese Casserole Recipe enough—it’s an easy, crowd-pleasing dish that combines simple ingredients in a decadent way. Whether you’re looking to impress brunch guests or just treat yourself on a cozy morning, this casserole is a warm hug in food form. Give it a try and watch it become an instant favorite in your kitchen!
Print
Sausage Cream Cheese Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
A hearty and creamy sausage cream cheese casserole perfect for breakfast or brunch, featuring savory cooked sausage, creamy cheese layers, and a biscuit or hashbrown base baked to golden perfection.
Ingredients
Sausage Layer
- 1 lb (450g) breakfast sausage (pork or turkey)
Cream Cheese Mixture
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese (softened)
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp dried parsley (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Other Ingredients
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
- 6 large eggs
- 1 (10 oz) can refrigerated biscuit dough (or 4 cups frozen hashbrowns)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for added flavor)
- 1 tbsp butter (for greasing the baking dish)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter to prevent sticking and aid browning.
- Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage until it is browned and fully cooked, breaking it up into small crumbles. Drain any excess grease and set the cooked sausage aside.
- Make the Cream Cheese Mixture: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with milk, garlic powder, onion powder, dried parsley (if using), salt, and pepper until the mixture is smooth and creamy. A hand mixer or whisk works well here.
- Assemble the Base: If using biscuit dough, tear it into small pieces and spread evenly over the bottom of the prepared baking dish. If using hashbrowns, spread them evenly as the base layer instead.
- Layer the Sausage: Evenly distribute the cooked sausage over the biscuit dough or hashbrowns layer.
- Add the Cream Cheese Mixture: Pour the prepared cream cheese mixture evenly over the sausage, spreading gently to cover the layer.
- Add Eggs and Cheese: Crack the 6 eggs evenly over the casserole, aiming for an even distribution. Then sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top and, if desired, sprinkle with grated Parmesan for extra flavor.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the eggs are fully set and the top is golden and bubbly.
- Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving warm for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Notes
- You can substitute the biscuit dough with frozen hashbrowns as an alternative base.
- If preferred, adjust spices like garlic or onion powder according to your taste preferences.
- For a richer flavor, don’t skip the optional Parmesan cheese topping.
- Ensure the eggs are fully set before removing from the oven to avoid runny portions.
- This casserole can be prepared ahead and refrigerated before baking; increase baking time slightly if baking from cold.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Breakfast Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
