Rise and Shine with our Easy Breakfast Casserole!
Start your day on a delicious note with our Easy Breakfast Casserole! This hearty and satisfying dish is perfect for busy mornings, lazy weekends, or special brunch gatherings with family and friends. Packed with savory breakfast sausage, creamy eggs, crispy hash browns, and gooey cheese, this casserole is sure to become a breakfast favorite. Plus, it’s incredibly simple to make and can be customized with your favorite ingredients. Let’s dive into the recipe and discover how to make mornings a little brighter with this delightful dish!
Ingredients:
- 1/2 lb breakfast sausage
- 3 green onions, chopped (whites and greens)
- 4 eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 3 frozen shredded hash brown patties
- 1 1/4 cup shredded Colby Jack cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray or butter.
2. Cook the Breakfast Sausage:
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage until browned and crumbled. Drain any excess grease from the skillet.
3. Prepare the Hash Browns:
- Cook the frozen shredded hash brown patties according to the package instructions until they are golden and crispy.
4. Prepare the Egg Mixture:
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Assemble the Casserole:
- Arrange the cooked hash brown patties in the bottom of the prepared baking dish, covering the bottom evenly.
- Sprinkle the cooked breakfast sausage over the hash browns, followed by the chopped green onions.
- Pour the egg mixture evenly over the sausage and hash browns, ensuring that the ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Sprinkle the shredded Colby Jack cheese over the top of the casserole, covering it completely.
6. Bake the Casserole:
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
- Remove the breakfast casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Cut into squares and serve warm, garnished with additional chopped green onions if desired.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute vegetarian sausage crumbles or sautéed vegetables for the breakfast sausage for a meat-free version of this casserole.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese such as cheddar, pepper jack, or Swiss to customize the flavor of your casserole.
- Add-In Ideas: Enhance the flavor and texture of your breakfast casserole by adding ingredients such as diced bell peppers, sliced mushrooms, or chopped tomatoes.
Keto and Low-Carb Version:
- Low-Carb Hash Browns: Use cauliflower rice or grated zucchini instead of hash browns to reduce the carbohydrate content of the casserole.
- Keto-Friendly Cheese: Opt for full-fat cheese varieties such as cheddar or mozzarella to keep the casserole keto-friendly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- Can I make this breakfast casserole ahead of time?
- Yes! You can assemble the casserole the night before, cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and refrigerate it overnight. Bake it in the morning as directed.
- Can I freeze leftovers?
- Absolutely! Allow the casserole to cool completely, then cut it into individual portions and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place the wrapped portions in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in the microwave or oven.
- What other ingredients can I add to this casserole?
- The beauty of this breakfast casserole is its versatility! Feel free to add your favorite breakfast ingredients such as cooked bacon, diced ham, or sautéed vegetables to customize the flavor to your liking.
With its simple preparation and delicious flavors, our Easy Breakfast Casserole is the perfect way to start your day off right. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a leisurely breakfast at home, this satisfying dish is sure to please. Get creative with your favorite ingredients and make this casserole your own. From busy weekday mornings to leisurely weekend brunches, this breakfast casserole is a winner every time!
