Cook Sausage: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage until browned and crumbled. Drain any excess fat and set aside.
Thaw Hash Browns: Ensure the hash browns are fully thawed and pat them dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture.
Step 2: Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Dish
Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Grease Baking Dish: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a small amount of oil.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Layer Hash Browns: Spread the thawed hash browns evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
Add Sausage: Sprinkle the cooked and crumbled sausage over the hash browns.
Add Cheddar Cheese: Evenly distribute the shredded cheddar cheese over the sausage layer.
Cream Cheese Dollops: Drop small dollops of the softened cream cheese evenly over the cheese and sausage.
Step 4: Prepare the Egg Mixture
Beat Eggs: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until well combined.
Season: Add the minced fresh thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the egg mixture. Whisk again to incorporate.
Step 5: Combine and Bake
Pour Egg Mixture: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layers in the baking dish, ensuring it covers all the ingredients.
Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown.
Cool Slightly: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before slicing.
Step 6: Serve