Prepare to embark on a mouthwatering journey that will transform your breakfast or brunch game forever! This irresistible Rotel Sausage Cream Cheese Hash Brown Casserole is the ultimate crowd-pleasing dish that combines the hearty flavors of breakfast sausage, zesty Rotel tomatoes, creamy cheese, and crispy hash browns into one mind-blowing culinary creation. Whether you're feeding a hungry family, hosting a weekend brunch, or craving a decadent comfort food experience, this recipe promises to be your new go-to sensation that will have everyone begging for seconds!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb breakfast sausage
- 1 can Rotel tomatoes
- 8 oz cream cheese
- 1 bag (30 oz) frozen hash browns
- 2 cups shredded cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish thoroughly with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the breakfast sausage, breaking it into small crumbles. Cook until the sausage is completely cooked through and no pink remains, approximately 6-8 minutes.
- Drain any excess grease from the cooked sausage using a colander or paper towels. Return the sausage to the skillet.
- Add the undrained can of Rotel tomatoes to the sausage and stir to combine. Let the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes to blend the flavors.
- In a separate mixing bowl, soften the cream cheese at room temperature. Add sour cream, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and well combined.
- In the prepared baking dish, spread the frozen hash browns in an even layer as the base of the casserole.
- Pour the sausage and Rotel mixture evenly over the hash browns.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture over the sausage layer, ensuring even coverage.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top of the casserole, covering the entire surface.
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown and the edges are bubbling.
- Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the ingredients to set and makes serving easier.
- Serve hot, garnishing with optional chopped green onions or fresh parsley if desired.
Tips
- For maximum flavor, use high-quality breakfast sausage and let it brown thoroughly to develop rich, caramelized notes.
- Allow cream cheese to sit at room temperature for easier mixing and smoother texture.
- Don't skip draining the sausage grease to prevent a greasy casserole.
- Use frozen hash browns directly from the bag - no need to thaw, as they'll cook perfectly in the oven.
- For extra crispiness, consider spreading the hash browns in a single, even layer and pressing them down slightly.
- Experiment with different cheese blends like sharp cheddar, pepper jack, or Mexican blend for varied flavor profiles.
- Let the casserole rest 5-10 minutes after baking to allow ingredients to set and make serving easier.
- Optional garnishes like chopped green onions or fresh parsley can add a pop of color and fresh flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 520kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 35g
Saturated Fat: 18g
Cholesterol: 110mg
