Introduction
Start your morning with a delightful twist on breakfast that is sure to please the whole family! This Sausage, Egg, and Cream Cheese Casserole is the perfect solution for busy mornings or cozy brunch gatherings. Imagine a warm, comforting dish bursting with flavors from savory breakfast sausage and creamy cheese, all baked to golden perfection. It’s hearty, easy to prepare, and can even be made ahead of time. Let’s dive into this satisfying recipe!
Ingredients
- 1 pound breakfast sausage
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup diced bell peppers (optional)
- 1 cup diced green onions (optional)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 8 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), creating a cozy environment for baking.
- In a skillet over medium heat, add the breakfast sausage. Cook until it’s perfectly browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat to keep the casserole from being too greasy.
- While the sausage cooks, grab a large mixing bowl. Whisk together the eggs, softened cream cheese, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Once the sausage has cooked, stir it into the egg mixture, along with the shredded cheddar cheese. If you’re feeling adventurous, add in the optional diced bell peppers and green onions for an extra crunch and burst of flavor. Mix until everything is evenly distributed.
- Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish and pour the sausage and egg mixture into it, spreading it out evenly.
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is set and the top is a lovely, light golden brown.
- Once baked to perfection, remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. Then, slice into squares and serve warm. Enjoy the aroma that fills your kitchen!
Notes or Tips
- This casserole can be assembled the night before. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate. Bake it in the morning straight from the fridge, allowing an extra 5-10 minutes of cooking time.
- Feel free to customize this recipe with your favorite vegetables or cheeses! Spinach, mushrooms, or feta cheese would make excellent additions.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven for a quick breakfast treat.
Cooking Techniques
Mastering the art of casserole cooking can elevate any meal. For this recipe, you’ll want to ensure that the sausage is cooked thoroughly but not overdone, as it will continue cooking in the oven. Mixing the cream cheese into the eggs while they’re still cold helps achieve a smooth texture. Eggs in the casserole should be just set to maintain a fluffy consistency – watch them carefully as they bake!
FAQ
- Can I use a different type of sausage? Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with turkey sausage or even a meat-free alternative for a lighter or vegetarian option.
- What can I serve with this casserole? This dish pairs beautifully with fresh fruit, a light salad, or warm toast for a complete brunch experience!
- Can I freeze this casserole? Yes, you can! Just ensure it’s completely cooled before wrapping it tightly and placing it in the freezer. To reheat, bake from frozen at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Conclusion
This Sausage, Egg, and Cream Cheese Casserole is a deliciously satisfying dish that combines convenience with comfort. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner, your family and friends will love it! It’s packed with flavor, easy to prepare, and sure to become a favorite in your home. Happy cooking!