Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground breakfast sausage (pork)
  • 1 tsp dried ground sage
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

Instructions:

  1. Brown the ground sausage in a 12 inch cast iron skillet or non stick pan over medium high heat, breaking the meat into small crumbles. Cook 8-10 mins until deeply browned and sizzling. Note: according to [Serious Eats](https://www.seriouseats.com), a hard sear on the meat creates the most flavor.
  2. Drain approximately 80% of the excess grease. Leave a little bit in the pan for the spices to bloom.
  3. Lower the heat to medium low. Stir in the dried sage, onion powder, and garlic powder.
  4. Add the softened cream cheese and sour cream to the skillet. Stir continuously for 3-5 mins until the mixture is smooth and velvety.
  5. Fold in 1 cup (half) of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until fully melted and glossy.
  6. Transfer the mixture to a 9x9 inch baking dish or a crockpot.
  7. Top with the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar, spreading it evenly.
  8. Finish by either baking at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden, or setting a crockpot to LOW for 2 hours or HIGH for 1 hour until fully melted.