SAUSAGE, EGG & CREAM CHEESE HASH BROWN BREAKFAST CASSEROLE

Preparation Time: 20 minutes

Baking Time: 45 minutes

Servings: 8-10

Difficulty Level: Easy

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground breakfast sausage
• 1 package (30 ounces) frozen shredded hash browns, thawed
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 8 large eggs
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup chopped green onions (optional)
• Cooking spray

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
2. Cook Sausage:
   • In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground breakfast sausage until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess grease.
3. Prepare Hash Browns:
   • In a large bowl, combine the thawed shredded hash browns, melted butter, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
4. Layer Hash Browns:
   • Press the hash brown mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form an even layer.
5. Layer Cream Cheese:
   • Spread the softened cream cheese over the hash brown layer.
6. Sprinkle Cooked Sausage:
   • Sprinkle the cooked sausage evenly over the cream cheese layer.
7. Whisk Eggs and Milk:
   • In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until well combined.
8. Pour Egg Mixture:
   • Pour the egg mixture over the sausage layer.
9. Add Cheddar Cheese:
   • Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
10. Optional: Add Green Onions:
    • If desired, sprinkle chopped green onions on top for added flavor.
11. Bake in the Oven:
    • Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes or until the edges are golden brown, and the center is set.
12. Cool and Serve:
    • Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm.
13. Enjoy Your Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole!
    • This hearty and flavorful breakfast casserole is perfect for feeding a crowd. Serve it for brunch or any morning gathering.

Note:

• Customize the casserole by adding diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or other vegetables to the hash brown layer.
• You can make this casserole ahead of time. Prepare the layers in the dish, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Bake the next morning.