Best Breakfast Casserole
When the mornings are busy and you need a hearty breakfast that everyone will love, look no further than the Best Breakfast Casserole. This dish is a crowd-pleaser, combining savory breakfast sausage, eggs, cheese, and veggies, all baked into a comforting casserole that can feed a crowd. Perfect for holidays, brunches, or even a cozy family breakfast, this recipe is easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time.
The Upside of Best Breakfast Casserole
The Best Breakfast Casserole offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures that make breakfast exciting. Here are some reasons to love this dish:
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep it the night before for a stress-free morning.
- Versatile: Customize with your favorite ingredients or leftovers.
- Feeding a Crowd: Perfect for gatherings, it easily serves a large group.
- Comforting and Satisfying: The combination of sausage, eggs, and cheese is sure to keep you full for hours.
What’s in the Bowl
To create the Best Breakfast Casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Cooking Spray: For greasing the baking dish.
- 1 lb Breakfast Sausage: Choose regular or hot for a spicy kick.
- 1 Medium Onion: Chopped for flavor.
- 1 Red Bell Pepper: Seeded and chopped for sweetness and color.
- 12 Large Eggs: The base of this casserole.
- 2 Cups Half and Half: For creaminess.
- 1 (4 oz) Can Green Chilis: Chopped for a hint of heat.
- 2 Teaspoons Kosher Salt: Divided for seasoning.
- 1 Teaspoon Black Pepper: Divided for seasoning.
- 1 Teaspoon Garlic Powder: For that extra depth of flavor.
- 30 oz Frozen Hash Browns: Thawed for a hearty base.
- 2 Cups Cheddar Cheese: Shredded for melty goodness.
- 3 Scallions: Sliced, for garnish.
Prep & Cook Tools
To whip up this delicious casserole, gather these essential tools:
- Large Skillet: For cooking the sausage and veggies.
- Mixing Bowl: To combine eggs and half and half.
- Baking Dish: A 9×13-inch dish works perfectly.
- Whisk: To blend the egg mixture.
- Spatula: For mixing and spreading the ingredients evenly.
Mastering Best Breakfast Casserole: How-To
Making the Best Breakfast Casserole is straightforward. Follow these steps for a perfect bake:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage and Veggies
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the breakfast sausage. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Add the chopped onion and red bell pepper, cooking until the veggies are softened, about 5 minutes.
Step 3: Whisk the Eggs
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, half and half, green chilis, 1 teaspoon of salt, ½ teaspoon of black pepper, and garlic powder until well combined.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
In the prepared baking dish, layer the thawed hash browns evenly. Next, spread the sausage and vegetable mixture over the hash browns. Pour the egg mixture over everything, ensuring it’s evenly distributed.
Step 5: Add Cheese
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top of the casserole, allowing it to melt and create a delicious crust.
Step 6: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the center is set and a knife inserted comes out clean. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Garnish with sliced scallions for a fresh touch, and serve hot.
Smart Substitutions
Here are some ideas for ingredient swaps to make the Best Breakfast Casserole your own:
- Meat Alternatives: Use turkey sausage or crumbled tofu for a lighter option.
- Vegetable Mix: Feel free to add spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini.
- Cheese Choices: Swap cheddar for pepper jack or feta for a different flavor.
- Hash Brown Options: Use fresh diced potatoes if you prefer a homemade touch.
Steer Clear of These
While making your Best Breakfast Casserole, here are a few things to avoid:
- Overmixing: Too much mixing can make the casserole dense.
- Skipping the Grease: Not greasing the baking dish can lead to sticking.
- Using Frozen Ingredients Directly: Always thaw hash browns for even cooking.
- Undercooking: Ensure the casserole is fully set before serving.
Storage Pro Tips
To keep your Best Breakfast Casserole fresh and delicious, consider these tips:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through. You can also freeze the casserole by cutting it into portions and wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. To serve, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as needed.
Best Breakfast Casserole Q&A
Can I make the casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance, cover it, and store it in the fridge. Just bake it in the morning for a hassle-free breakfast.
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?
Yes, fresh diced potatoes can be used. Just par-cook them slightly before layering in the casserole for the best texture.
What can I serve with this casserole?
This casserole pairs well with fresh fruit, yogurt, or even Breakfast Nachos for a fun twist on breakfast.
How do I know when the casserole is done?
The casserole is done when the center is set, and a knife inserted comes out clean. It should also have a light golden color on top.
Desserts to Finish
Complete your breakfast feast with these delicious dessert ideas:
Ready, Set, Cook
Now that you have all the details, it’s time to gather your ingredients and make the Best Breakfast Casserole. With its savory flavors and comforting texture, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your home. Whether it’s for a special occasion or a simple weekend breakfast, this casserole is perfect for any gathering. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Best Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the breakfast sausage. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Add the chopped onion and red bell pepper, cooking until the veggies are softened, about 5 minutes.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, half and half, green chilis, 1 teaspoon of salt, ½ teaspoon of black pepper, and garlic powder until well combined.
- In the prepared baking dish, layer the thawed hash browns evenly. Next, spread the sausage and vegetable mixture over the hash browns. Pour the egg mixture over everything, ensuring it’s evenly distributed.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top of the casserole, allowing it to melt and create a delicious crust.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the center is set and a knife inserted comes out clean. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with sliced scallions for a fresh touch, and serve hot.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
- You can freeze the casserole in portions for up to 2 months.
