Looking for a simple and tasty breakfast? This Breakfast Casserole with Eggs, Potatoes, and Sausage will wow your family. Packed with crunchy veggies and gooey cheese, it’s easy to make and a real crowd-pleaser. In this post, I’ll share a quick recipe, helpful tips, and great variations. Let’s get cooking and start your day off right!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 6 large eggs
– 2 cups diced hash brown potatoes (fresh or frozen)
– 1 cup cooked breakfast sausage, crumbled
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup diced bell peppers (mixed colors)
– 1/2 cup diced onions
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives (for garnish)
When making this breakfast casserole, you want to use fresh ingredients. Eggs are the base of this dish. They provide protein and flavor. Hash brown potatoes add texture and heartiness. You can use fresh or frozen potatoes, but fresh gives a nice bite.
Breakfast sausage adds a savory and spicy flavor. Crumble it well so it spreads throughout the casserole. Cheddar cheese brings creaminess and richness. I recommend using sharp cheddar for more flavor.
Bell peppers and onions add color and sweetness. Feel free to mix colors for a vibrant look. Garlic powder and paprika enhance the taste, making it more inviting. You’ll want salt and pepper to boost all the flavors. Don’t skip the chives; they add a fresh finish when you serve the dish.
Suggested Equipment
– Mixing bowl
– Whisk
– Casserole dish (9×13 inch)
– Oven
Using the right tools helps you create this dish easily. A mixing bowl is great for combining your ingredients. A whisk helps blend the eggs and spices smoothly. A 9×13 inch casserole dish is perfect for even baking. Lastly, you need an oven to cook your masterpiece.
For the full recipe and instructions, check out the details above!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat and Prepare
– Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
– Grease your 9×13 inch casserole dish with non-stick spray.
This step sets the stage for baking. Preheating ensures even cooking. Greasing the dish helps the casserole come out easily.
Combine Ingredients
– Whisk 6 large eggs with 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon paprika, salt, and pepper to taste.
– Mix in 1 cup crumbled cooked sausage, 2 cups diced hash brown potatoes, 1/2 cup diced bell peppers, and 1/2 cup diced onions.
Whisking the eggs with seasonings adds flavor. Mixing in the sausage and veggies gives the dish great texture. Try to combine everything well, but don’t overmix.
Bake the Casserole
– Pour the mixture into the greased dish.
– Top with 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese and bake.
Baking for 30 to 35 minutes makes the eggs puff up and the top golden. The cheese melts into a nice, bubbly layer. After baking, let it cool a bit before slicing. You can find the full recipe for more details.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Texture
To get a fluffy breakfast casserole, use fresh eggs. Fresh eggs whip up better. Whisk them well to add air. This helps the casserole rise during baking. Use the right seasoning, too. Salt brings out the flavors, while paprika adds warmth. Garlic powder gives it a nice kick. Always taste as you go. You want a balanced flavor that excites your palate.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole with fresh fruit or a light salad. These sides add color and freshness to your plate. You can also pair it with toast or biscuits for a classic touch. For garnishing, add fresh chives on top. They give a pop of color and a mild onion taste. You can also try parsley or cilantro for a different flavor.
Meal Prep Advice
Prepare ingredients the night before. Chop vegetables and crumbled sausage ahead of time. Keep them in the fridge until you are ready to cook. This saves time in the morning. For reheating, use an oven for best results. Microwave works too, but it may not keep the texture. Heat at a low temperature to keep it moist. Enjoy your delicious breakfast without losing quality. For the full recipe, check out the Sassy Sausage & Spud Breakfast Bake.
Variations
Vegetarian Option
If you want a vegetarian version, you can swap the sausage for other tasty ingredients. Use cooked mushrooms for a meaty texture or add black beans for protein. You can also try crumbled tofu or tempeh for a unique twist. Don’t forget to add spices for flavor!
Flavor Add-Ins
To make your breakfast casserole even more exciting, consider adding some spices or herbs. Try a pinch of cayenne for heat or Italian seasoning for a fresh taste. You can also mix in diced tomatoes, spinach, or zucchini to boost nutrition and flavor.
Cheese Alternatives
Cheese makes this dish creamy and delicious. If you want to change it up, try using mozzarella or pepper jack cheese. Each type adds a unique taste. For a dairy-free option, consider vegan cheese or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
For the full recipe, check out the Sassy Sausage & Spud Breakfast Bake!
Storage Info
Refrigeration Guidelines
You can store your breakfast casserole in the fridge for up to four days. To keep it fresh, let it cool completely. Then, cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can also place it in an airtight container. This helps prevent drying out and keeps the flavors intact.
Freezing Your Casserole
For freezing, you can do this with both pre-cooked and cooked casseroles. If you freeze the unbaked casserole, cover it tightly and freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready to bake it, thaw it in the fridge overnight before cooking. If you freeze baked casserole, let it cool first. Wrap it well, and it can last for up to three months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight. Then, warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Using Leftovers
Leftover casserole is super versatile. You can chop it up and add it to a breakfast burrito. Or, mix it with pasta for a quick lunch. You can also make a savory breakfast sandwich by placing it between two slices of bread. The options are endless! This way, you can enjoy your delicious breakfast casserole in new and exciting ways. Don’t forget to check the [Full Recipe] for more details!
FAQs
Can I make this breakfast casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this breakfast casserole ahead of time. To do this, follow these steps:
– Mix all your ingredients as per the recipe.
– Pour the mixture into your greased casserole dish.
– Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil.
– Place it in the fridge. It can stay there overnight.
– When ready to bake, remove it from the fridge. Let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Then, bake it according to the instructions.
How long does it take to cook?
The total prep time for this casserole is about 15 minutes. After you prep, it takes about 30 to 35 minutes to cook. So, you need around 50 minutes from start to finish to enjoy this tasty dish.
Can I substitute other ingredients?
Yes, feel free to make some changes to the recipe. Here are some ideas:
– Instead of sausage, try cooked bacon or turkey sausage.
– You can swap the cheddar cheese for mozzarella or pepper jack for a kick.
– If you don’t have bell peppers, use spinach or zucchini instead.
– For a dairy-free option, use a non-dairy cheese.
These swaps will keep your breakfast casserole fresh and fun!
This blog covered a tasty breakfast casserole that is easy to make. You learned how to combine fresh ingredients like eggs, sausage, and cheese, and bake them to perfection. I shared tips to improve texture and how to store leftovers. Whether you want to make it vegetarian or try new flavors, options are endless. This casserole makes a great meal for any time of day. Enjoy the fun of cooking, and remember, experimenting can lead to your new favorite dish.
