Are you ready for a breakfast that’s both easy and packed with flavor? Paula Deen’s Breakfast Casserole brings together savory sausage, fluffy eggs, and melty cheese in one delightful dish. Perfect for lazy weekends or special gatherings, this casserole is a crowd-pleaser. Let me guide you through the simple steps to create this tasty meal that will warm your kitchen and your heart!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 pound of sausage (Italian or breakfast sausage), crumbled
– 6 large eggs
– 2 cups of milk
– 8 slices of white bread, cubed
Seasonings and Vegetables
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 cup green bell pepper, diced
– 1/2 cup onion, diced
Toppings
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– Fresh chives, chopped (for garnish)
The Paula Deen Breakfast Casserole is a family favorite. It combines simple, hearty ingredients to create a dish that’s both tasty and filling. You’ll need a pound of sausage, which adds rich flavor and protein. I recommend using either Italian or breakfast sausage for the best taste.
Next, you’ll need six large eggs and two cups of milk. The eggs bind the dish, while milk adds creaminess. The bread is critical. Eight slices of cubed white bread soak up the egg mixture, making a soft base.
Don’t forget the seasonings! One teaspoon of salt and half a teaspoon of black pepper will perk up the flavors. Garlic powder and onion powder each get one teaspoon too. For a fresh touch, add half a cup each of diced green bell pepper and onion.
Finally, the topping is essential! Two cups of shredded cheddar cheese will melt beautifully on top. I like to add fresh chives for a pop of color and flavor.
This dish is easy to prepare and so satisfying. For the full recipe, you can explore the steps that bring these ingredients together. Enjoy cooking!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
– Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with non-stick spray or butter.
– In a large skillet over medium heat, cook 1 pound of crumbled sausage until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess grease and set aside.
Mixing Instructions
– In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 6 large eggs, 2 cups of milk, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1 teaspoon onion powder until well combined.
– In the greased baking dish, layer 8 slices of cubed bread evenly. Add the cooked sausage, 1/2 cup diced green bell pepper, and 1/2 cup diced onion over the bread. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the top, ensuring all ingredients soak up the mixture.
Baking Procedure
– Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
– Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the cheese is bubbling.
– Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh chopped chives.
For a detailed guide, check out the Full Recipe.
Tips & Tricks
Best Practices for Cooking
To get the best flavor from the sausage, cook it over medium heat. This method helps it brown nicely. Break it up with a spoon while it cooks. This gives you small, tasty bits. After cooking, drain extra grease to keep the casserole light.
When you mix the egg mixture, pour it slowly. This step helps soak the bread evenly. Make sure every piece of bread gets wet. If some bread stays dry, it won’t taste as good.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs well with fresh fruit or toast. The sweetness of the fruit balances the savory flavors. You can also add hot sauce or salsa for a kick. This adds a spicy touch that many enjoy.
Garnishing Ideas
Garnish the casserole with fresh herbs like chives. Chives add a nice color and mild onion flavor. You can also try other cheeses for a twist, like pepper jack or Monterey Jack. For fun presentation, arrange the herbs in a small pile on top. This makes the dish look even more inviting.
Variations
Ingredient Swaps
You can easily switch up some ingredients. Here are a few ideas:
– Substitute sausage with bacon or ham for a different taste.
– Use different types of bread, like whole wheat or brioche, for unique flavors.
Dietary Alternatives
Want to make it fit your diet? Try these options:
– Make a vegetarian version by using veggies instead of meat.
– For gluten-free needs, use gluten-free bread to keep it safe.
Flavor Enhancements
Add some excitement to your dish with these tips:
– Add spices like paprika or cumin for a kick.
– Mix in other veggies like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrients.
– Try different cheese types, like pepper jack or feta, for varied flavors.
You can find the full recipe to explore these variations!
Storage Info
Refrigeration
To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely. Then, place it in an airtight container. Keep it in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, use a microwave or oven. If using the oven, cover with foil to avoid drying out.
Freezing
Yes, you can freeze this casserole! First, let it cool. Cut it into portions and wrap each piece in plastic wrap. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat in the oven until hot.
Shelf Life
In the fridge, the casserole stays fresh for about three days. In the freezer, it lasts for about three months. Check for spoilage by looking for off smells or mold. If it smells funny or looks strange, do not eat it.
FAQs
How long does it take to make Paula Deen Breakfast Casserole?
Making this tasty casserole takes about one hour. You spend 15 minutes preparing the ingredients. Then, you bake it for about 45 minutes.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can make it ahead! To do this, prepare the casserole as usual. Cover it and place it in the fridge overnight. In the morning, just bake it straight from the fridge. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! If you want more servings, double the ingredients. Use a larger baking dish to hold everything. Keep an eye on the bake time. It might take a little longer to cook through.
What can I serve with a breakfast casserole?
There are many great sides to pair with this casserole. Try fresh fruit like berries or melons. You can also serve toast or muffins. For drinks, coffee or fresh juice works well. Check out the Full Recipe for more ideas!
In this blog post, we explored how to make a delicious breakfast casserole. We covered the key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips for success. Plus, we discussed fun variations and storage options.
This dish is perfect for any meal. Its ease and flavor make it a family favorite. I encourage you to try it out and enjoy the savory tastes. Happy cooking!
