Why Make This Recipe
Breakfast casserole is a fantastic dish that brings together hearty ingredients for a filling morning meal. It is perfect for busy mornings, family gatherings, or even meal prep for the week. This recipe combines savory sausage or bacon, eggs, and cheese, all baked together with crispy hash browns. It’s not just tasty; it also saves time when feeding a crowd.
How to Make Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients
- 1 pound breakfast sausage or bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 6 large eggs
- 1 (30 ounce) bag frozen hash browns
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon butter or cooking spray
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup whole milk
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
- In a skillet, cook and crumble the breakfast sausage or bacon over medium heat until well browned.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked sausage or bacon, diced bell pepper, garlic powder, diced onion, and chopped parsley.
- In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, black pepper, and salt.
- Layer the frozen hash browns evenly in the greased baking dish, followed by the sausage mixture and then the egg mixture.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the casserole is set in the center and the cheese is golden.
- Let cool slightly before slicing and serving.
How to Serve Breakfast Casserole
You can serve breakfast casserole warm, straight from the oven. It pairs nicely with a side of fresh fruit or a green salad. You can also offer toppings like sour cream, salsa, or hot sauce for added flavor.
How to Store Breakfast Casserole
If you have leftovers, let the casserole cool completely. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. You can reheat it in the microwave or oven; just make sure it is heated through before serving.
Tips to Make Breakfast Casserole
- For extra flavor, try adding different vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or tomatoes.
- You can use different types of cheese according to your preference. Pepper jack or mozzarella are great alternatives to cheddar.
- Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your taste. A pinch of cayenne can add a nice kick!
Variation
If you prefer a vegetarian option, you can skip the sausage or bacon completely and add more vegetables. Spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms are excellent choices to create a delicious veggie-packed casserole.
FAQs
Can I prepare breakfast casserole the night before?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it in the morning.
Can I freeze breakfast casserole?
Yes! You can freeze it after baking. Cool it completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. It will last for up to three months in the freezer.
How long does breakfast casserole take to bake?
It typically takes 40-45 minutes to bake at 350°F until set and golden on top.
Enjoy your delicious and simple breakfast casserole!
