The sausage cream cheese breakfast casserole is a delectable dish that combines the rich flavors of sausage and cream cheese in a comforting baked formation, making it a perfect choice for breakfast or brunch gatherings. This casserole not only delivers a satisfying meal but also offers versatility, allowing for various ingredients and personal touches that can cater to different tastes and dietary preferences. Breakfast casseroles, in general, have grown in popularity due to their convenience, ease of preparation, and communal nature, making them an ideal dish for busy mornings or leisurely weekend brunches.
This particular recipe has captured the hearts of many for its creamy texture, hearty ingredients, and flavor profile that appeals to both adults and children alike. Easy to assemble and bake, the sausage cream cheese breakfast casserole provides a one-dish solution for feeding a crowd without the stress of multiple components. Whether you're hosting a holiday gathering, a family get-together, or simply seeking a satisfying start to your day, this casserole shines as a crowd-pleaser, embodying comfort food at its best. Join us as we explore the delightful world of this breakfast classic and how you can easily recreate it in your own kitchen.
What is a Sausage Cream Cheese Breakfast Casserole?
The sausage cream cheese breakfast casserole is a savory dish that combines seasoned sausage, creamy cheese, and eggs, all baked together to create a hearty meal. It typically features a base of cubed bread, which absorbs the flavors of the sausage and egg mixture, resulting in a delightful texture that is both soft and satisfying. The cream cheese adds a rich creaminess to the dish, enhancing the overall flavor profile. Often, this casserole is topped with shredded cheese, which melts and forms a delicious golden crust during baking.
Background
Breakfast casseroles have a historical context that traces back to the need for quick and filling meals, particularly in households where busy mornings demanded convenience. They were initially created as a way to use up leftovers, combining various ingredients into one dish that could feed a family or a group of friends. Over the years, this concept has evolved, and breakfast casseroles have become a beloved staple in many cuisines across the globe.
In the United States, variations of breakfast casseroles abound, often featuring ingredients such as bacon, ham, or vegetables alongside the main components of eggs and cheese. In other cultures, such as in Europe and Latin America, baked egg dishes can include local favorites like chorizo, potatoes, or seasonal vegetables, showcasing the versatility of this meal type. The sausage cream cheese breakfast casserole is just one of many iterations, celebrated for its comforting qualities and appealing flavors that bridge the gap between brunch and breakfast, making it a favorite for gatherings and weekday mornings alike.
Ingredients for Sausage Cream Cheese Breakfast Casserole
To recreate the delicious sausage cream cheese breakfast casserole, you'll need a combination of main ingredients and optional additions. Below are the components that come together to create this delightful dish.
Main Ingredients
- Sausage: You can use pork, turkey, or any alternative sausages that suit your dietary preference.
- Cream Cheese: Adds a rich and creamy texture, essential for the dish.
- Eggs: The binding agent that helps hold everything together.
- Bread: Cubed bread acts as a base, soaking up all the delicious flavors.
- Cheese: Cheddar is a popular choice, but feel free to experiment with other varieties.
Optional Ingredients
- Vegetables: Spinach, bell peppers, onions, or any seasonal veggies you enjoy can be added for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Herbs and Spices: Consider using parsley, paprika, garlic powder, or even chili flakes for an added kick.
- Toppings: Green onions, additional cheese, or breadcrumbs can be sprinkled on top before serving for an extra layer of flavor and texture.
Nutritional Information
A typical serving of sausage cream cheese breakfast casserole contains a good mix of macros. While the exact nutritional makeup can vary based on the specific ingredients used, expect a hearty meal rich in protein and fat, with moderate carbohydrates from the bread. Always consider personal dietary needs when preparing this dish.
Equipment Needed
Having the right tools makes the cooking process smoother. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare your casserole:
- Baking Dish: A 9x13-inch baking dish is ideal for this recipe.
- Mixing Bowls: Use various sizes for preparing different ingredients.
- Whisk: Essential for mixing eggs and cream cheese together.
- Skillet or Frying Pan: For browning the sausage and sautéing vegetables if desired.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient quantities for best results.
sausage cream cheese breakfast casserole
Equipment
- 1 large skillet
- 1 mixing bowl
- 1 whisk
- 1 9x13 inch baking dish
- 1 oven
Ingredients
- 1 pound breakfast sausage
- 8 ounces cream cheese softened
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 6 cups cubed bread preferably day-old
- to taste salt
- to taste pepper
- optional fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage until browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Drain excess grease and set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, eggs, and milk. Whisk until smooth.
- Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper into the egg mixture.
- Grease the 9x13 inch baking dish or use cooking spray. Layer half of the cubed bread at the bottom of the dish.
- Spread the cooked sausage evenly over the bread, and then add half of the shredded cheddar cheese on top.
- Pour half of the egg and cream cheese mixture evenly over the layers.
- Repeat with the remaining cubed bread, sausage, cheese, and finish with the rest of the egg mixture.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes or until the casserole is set and the top is golden brown.
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Leave a Reply