Sausage breakfast casserole is a comforting and hearty dish that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner. This casserole combines savory sausage, fluffy eggs, and melty cheese, all baked together to create a delicious and satisfying meal. It’s easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time, making it ideal for busy mornings or special occasions.
Ingredients
- 1 pound breakfast sausage
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- 4 cups frozen hash browns, thawed
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
- Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage until browned and cooked through. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside, leaving a small amount of fat in the skillet.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion, red bell pepper, green bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Prepare the Egg Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika (if using). Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and mozzarella cheese.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked sausage, sautéed vegetables, and thawed hash browns to the egg mixture. Mix until well combined.
- Assemble the Casserole: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly and smooth the top.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the casserole is set and the top is golden brown. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean.
- Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy this hearty and delicious dish with a side of fresh fruit or toast!
FAQs
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to a day in advance. Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, remove the cover and bake as directed.
Q: Can I use a different type of sausage? A: Absolutely! You can use any type of sausage you prefer, such as Italian sausage, turkey sausage, or even a plant-based sausage alternative. Just make sure to cook the sausage thoroughly before adding it to the casserole.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or reheat the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Q: Can I freeze sausage breakfast casserole? A: Yes, you can freeze the casserole. Assemble the casserole but do not bake it. Cover tightly with aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
Q: What can I substitute for hash browns? A: If you prefer not to use hash browns, you can substitute them with diced potatoes, tater tots, or even bread cubes. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed.
Q: Can I add other vegetables to the casserole? A: Yes, this recipe is very versatile. You can add vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, zucchini, or tomatoes to the egg mixture for added flavor and nutrition.
Q: Can I make this recipe dairy-free? A: Yes, you can make a dairy-free version by using a plant-based milk and dairy-free cheese. Ensure that any sausage or meat substitutes used are also dairy-free.
This sausage breakfast casserole is a delicious and comforting dish that’s perfect for any meal. Its hearty ingredients and rich flavors make it a great addition to your recipe collection. Enjoy!