Sausage Bacon Breakfast Bake

This hearty breakfast casserole is a crowd-pleaser packed with sausage, bacon, cream cheese, and cheddar cheese. It's perfect for weekend brunches or holiday mornings when you want something indulgent and satisfying that feeds a crowd easily. The creamy texture combined with savory meats and melty cheese makes it impossible to resist.

I first made this casserole for a family reunion and it became an instant favorite that everyone asks for year after year

Gather Your Ingredients

• Pork sausage: cooked until browned to bring deep, savory flavor and juicy texture Use good quality sausage for best taste
• Bacon: chopped and cooked with sausage for smoky crunch Select thick-cut bacon for more bite
• Cream cheese: softened for creaminess and tang Full fat ensures richness
• Sour cream: adds moisture and slight tang enhancing the custard base
• Whole milk: balances the mixture and allows the eggs to set gently Avoid skim milk
• Large eggs: bind everything together and create a fluffy, light texture
• Shredded cheddar cheese: divided for mixing in and topping for gooey, golden finish Sharp cheddar adds a nice punch
• Frozen shredded hash browns: thawed and drained to add body and soak up flavors without getting soggy
• Dry ranch seasoning mix: provides seasoning with herbs and zesty notes Choose your favorite brand
• Onion powder: for subtle sweetness and depth
• Garlic powder: boosts flavor with a gentle pungency
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper: to balance and enhance flavors

How to Make It

Sauté the Meats:

Cook the pork sausage and chopped bacon in a large skillet over medium-high heat until fully cooked and nicely browned. Drain off any excess fat carefully to avoid a greasy casserole but keep enough to preserve flavor. Set the meats aside once done.

Blend the Dairy and Eggs:

In a large bowl, use a whisk or hand mixer to blend the softened cream cheese and sour cream until completely smooth. This base helps create a creamy texture. Add the whole milk and large eggs, whisking well to fully combine. Stir in the dry ranch seasoning, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper for a well-seasoned custard.

Combine with Hash Browns and Cheese:

Fold the cooked sausage and bacon into the egg mixture, followed by the thawed and drained hash browns. Add 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese to the mixture and stir until everything is evenly mixed. This ensures all ingredients are well distributed in the casserole.

Prepare for Baking:

Preheat the oven to 350°F or 175°C. Grease a 9 by 13 inch baking dish lightly with butter or nonstick spray. Pour the entire mixture into the dish spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly across the top for a golden, bubbly crust.

Bake Covered then Uncovered:

Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil to trap moisture. Bake for 50 to 60 minutes allowing the casserole to firm up and the flavors to meld. After that, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 8 to 10 minutes to achieve a beautifully browned and bubbly cheese top.

Rest and Serve:

Let the casserole cool and rest for a few minutes before slicing into squares. This resting time helps it set further and makes slicing easier. Serve the casserole warm for the best creamy, cheesy experience.

My favorite ingredient has to be the cream cheese because it adds a luxurious creaminess that makes this dish so decadent without being heavy. I remember the first time I brought this to a brunch potluck and everyone raved about how comforting and flavorful it was, requesting the recipe immediately.

Flavor Boosters

Serve this casserole alongside fresh fruit or a simple green salad to balance the rich, meaty flavors. A dollop of salsa or hot sauce on the side adds a great spicy contrast. It's also lovely with a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice or coffee for a perfect brunch spread.

Serving Suggestions

Breakfast casseroles like this one are staples in American brunch culture offering a convenient, all-in-one meal that is easy to prepare ahead. They evolved as hearty dishes that could feed many using leftover breakfast items and pantry staples, making them particularly popular for community breakfasts and holiday gatherings.

Creative Twists

This casserole shines in colder months offering warmth and comfort but can be lightened in summer by adding fresh herbs like chives or parsley and mixing in seasonal veggies like zucchini or tomatoes. Adjust cheese types based on what's fresh or preferred for seasonal variation.

This casserole is both comforting and versatile, perfect for big gatherings or meal prep. Enjoy the rich flavors and easy preparation whenever you make it.

Common Questions About the Recipe

→ Can this breakfast bake be prepared in advance?

Yes, it can be assembled the night before and stored in the refrigerator before baking to save time in the morning.

→ What is the best way to reheat leftovers?

Leftovers can be reheated in the microwave or oven until warmed through, maintaining the creamy texture.

→ Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Ingredients like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms can be added for extra flavor and nutrition.

→ What type of cheese works best for topping?

Shredded cheddar cheese melts nicely to create a golden, bubbly crust on top of the bake.

→ Is it possible to use a different meat?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken sausage can be substituted for pork sausage to lighten the dish.