If you are searching for a hearty, flavorful dish that will brighten up your morning and satisfy every craving, look no further than this Rotel Sausage Cream Cheese Hash Brown Patty Breakfast Casserole Recipe. This delightful casserole combines crispy hash brown patties, savory sausage, smooth cream cheese, spicy Rotel diced tomatoes, and a cheesy egg custard baked to perfection. It’s a dynamic, crowd-pleasing breakfast that’s simple to prepare yet packed with layers of texture and zest. Whether it’s a busy weekday or a lazy weekend brunch, this recipe promises a warm, comforting start to your day that everyone will adore.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for this casserole is wonderfully straightforward, yet each component plays a vital role in building the dish’s mouthwatering profile. From the crispy base of hash browns to the creamy richness of cream cheese and the zesty kick of Rotel, every ingredient contributes depth, heartiness, and color that make this casserole absolutely irresistible.
- Frozen hash brown patties: Provide a crispy, golden base that holds the casserole together while adding great texture.
- Sausage (1½ lb): Adds savory, meaty flavor that’s rich and satisfying.
- Cream cheese (8 oz, softened): Brings a smooth, creamy richness that balances the spices and sausage.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (2 cups): Melts into gooey pockets of cheesy goodness throughout the casserole.
- Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies (10 oz, drained): Add a flavorful, slightly spicy punch that brightens the whole dish.
- Large eggs (8): Create the fluffy, custardy layer that binds all the ingredients together perfectly.
- Milk (½ cup): Keeps the egg mixture tender and smooth.
- Garlic powder (¼ tsp): Infuses warmth and subtle depth without overpowering.
- Onion powder (¼ tsp): Adds a mild sweetness and complexity.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Bring all the flavors into perfect balance.
How to Make Rotel Sausage Cream Cheese Hash Brown Patty Breakfast Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350ºF and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray. This ensures the casserole won’t stick and makes cleanup a breeze. The anticipation starts here as the warmth of the oven gets ready for all the delicious layers coming together.
Step 2: Set the Crispy Hash Brown Base
Arrange the frozen hash brown patties in a single layer on the bottom of your baking dish. Overlap them slightly if needed to cover the entire surface. These patties will bake into a crispy golden crust that perfectly contrasts with the creamy filling to come.
Step 3: Cook the Sausage
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage until fully browned and no longer pink. This step releases the sausage’s juicy, savory flavors. Drain away excess grease to keep the casserole from becoming too greasy, allowing the sausage’s taste to shine instead.
Step 4: Mix Sausage and Cream Cheese
Transfer the cooked sausage to a bowl and add the softened cream cheese. Stir them together until well combined. The cream cheese makes the sausage mixture luxuriously creamy, helping to balance the sausage’s bold savoriness and add extra moisture.
Step 5: Layer the Sausage Mixture and Toppings
Spoon the sausage and cream cheese blend evenly over the hash brown patties, spreading it with a spatula if needed. Then sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese across the top, followed by the drained Rotel tomatoes and green chilies. These layers build the casserole’s wonderful mix of flavors and vibrant colors.
Step 6: Whisk and Pour the Egg Mixture
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until fully blended. Pour this egg mixture evenly over the casserole, filling the gaps and binding all ingredients together as it bakes into a fluffy, cheesy custard.
Step 7: Bake Until Set
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for about 45 to 50 minutes, or until the eggs are fully set and the top is beautifully golden. You’ll know it’s ready when the edges start to bubble and the center feels firm to the touch.
How to Serve Rotel Sausage Cream Cheese Hash Brown Patty Breakfast Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance your casserole with fresh garnishes that add pops of color and extra brightness. Chopped green onions or fresh cilantro provide a fresh, herbal note, while a dollop of sour cream can add a luxurious creaminess that complements the spicy Rotel bits wonderfully. For a little zing, try adding sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of smoked paprika on top.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs beautifully with simple sides that won’t compete with its bold flavors. A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette can refresh the palate, or serve alongside fresh fruit to add a sweet contrast. For a more indulgent brunch, buttery toast or warm biscuits are perfect companions to soak up any extra cheesy goodness.
Creative Ways to Present
Give your breakfast the wow factor by serving this casserole in individual ramekins for a personalized touch, perfect for portion control and impressive presentation. You can also turn leftovers into breakfast sliders by placing warm casserole pieces inside toasted buns with fresh arugula for an easy grab-and-go meal. Don’t forget that this recipe also shines when served as a party appetizer cut into bite-sized squares!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your casserole, any leftover portions should be cooled completely before transferring to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, the casserole will stay fresh for up to 3 days. This makes for an excellent ready-made breakfast or snack anytime during the week.
Freezing
If you want to keep your Rotel Sausage Cream Cheese Hash Brown Patty Breakfast Casserole Recipe for longer, freezing is a great option. Wrap the casserole tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil or use a freezer-safe container. It will last well for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, place leftovers on a microwave-safe plate and warm in 30-second intervals until heated through, or use an oven at 350ºF for about 15-20 minutes for a crispier finish. Reheating this casserole brings back that fresh-baked flavor and texture, almost as delicious as the first time!
FAQs
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Absolutely! You can substitute breakfast sausage with turkey sausage, chorizo, or even a plant-based sausage alternative depending on your preference. Each will give the casserole its own unique flavor twist.
Do I have to use hash brown patties?
While hash brown patties are convenient and create a perfect base, you can also use freshly shredded or frozen hash browns if you prefer. Just make sure to squeeze out excess moisture to keep the casserole from becoming soggy.
Is this casserole spicy?
The can of Rotel adds a mild heat and a slight tang, but it’s not overly spicy. If you want it less spicy, drain the Rotel thoroughly or choose a mild diced tomato version. For more heat, consider adding extra chili powder or hot sauce.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Replace the sausage with sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or plant-based sausage to keep it vegetarian. The cream cheese and eggs still provide plenty of protein and richness to satisfy.
How far ahead can I prepare this casserole?
You can assemble the casserole the night before and keep it covered in the fridge. When you’re ready, just pop it into the oven and add a few extra minutes to the bake time since it will be cold from refrigeration.
Final Thoughts
This Rotel Sausage Cream Cheese Hash Brown Patty Breakfast Casserole Recipe is truly one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s got everything you want for an easy yet impressive breakfast or brunch — crispy, cheesy, savory, and just a little spicy. I can’t encourage you enough to make it for your next gathering or weekend morning. Your taste buds and everyone at the table will thank you for it!
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Rotel Sausage Cream Cheese Hash Brown Patty Breakfast Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
This Rotel Sausage Cream Cheese Hash Brown Patty Breakfast Casserole is a hearty and flavorful dish perfect for a weekend brunch or a special breakfast. Combining crispy hash brown patties, savory sausage, creamy cheese, and spicy Rotel tomatoes, this casserole is baked to perfection and sure to satisfy any crowd.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 10 frozen hash brown patties
- 1½ lb sausage
- 1 (8-oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 (10-oz) can Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies, drained
Egg Mixture
- 8 large eggs
- ½ cup milk
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC). Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Layer Hash Browns: Place the frozen hash brown patties evenly on the bottom of the baking dish. Overlap them slightly if necessary to cover the entire base.
- Cook Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage until it is browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess grease to avoid a greasy casserole.
- Combine Sausage and Cream Cheese: Transfer the cooked sausage to a bowl and mix in the softened cream cheese until fully combined and creamy.
- Assemble Sausage Layer: Spread the sausage and cream cheese mixture evenly over the hash brown patties in the baking dish. Then, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top, followed by the drained Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies.
- Prepare Egg Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Add Egg Mixture: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the assembled casserole layers in the baking dish.
- Bake Casserole: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is golden.
Notes
- Make sure to drain the sausage well to prevent a greasy casserole.
- Creme cheese should be softened for easier mixing with sausage.
- Check the casserole near the end of baking to avoid overcooking the eggs.
- You can add chopped onions or bell peppers to the sausage mixture for extra flavor.
- Serve warm with a side of fresh fruit or toast for a complete breakfast.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Breakfast Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
