A savory breakfast casserole is a hearty and delicious way to start the day. This dish combines eggs, cheese, meats, and vegetables into a satisfying and filling meal that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or preparing ahead for busy mornings. The combination of flavors and textures makes it an instant hit at any breakfast or brunch table. Let’s dive into this mouthwatering breakfast casserole recipe!
Ingredients
- 6 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup cooked ham, diced
- 1 cup cooked sausage, crumbled
- 1/2 cup green olives, sliced
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup yellow bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Egg Mixture
- Whisk Eggs and Milk: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until well combined.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Add the flour, baking powder, salt, and black pepper to the egg mixture. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps.
Step 2: Prepare the Fillings
- Cook the Meats: Ensure that the ham is diced and the sausage is cooked and crumbled. If you prefer, you can use other meats like bacon or turkey sausage.
- Chop the Vegetables: Dice the red and yellow bell peppers, slice the green olives, and chop the green onions.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
- Grease the Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
- Layer the Fillings: Evenly spread the diced ham, cooked sausage, bell peppers, green olives, and green onions in the baking dish.
- Add the Cheeses: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses evenly over the fillings.
- Pour the Egg Mixture: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the fillings and cheeses, ensuring that it covers all the ingredients.
Step 4: Bake the Casserole
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the casserole is set and the top is golden brown. You can check for doneness by inserting a knife into the center of the casserole; it should come out clean.
- Cool Slightly: Allow the casserole to cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the casserole set and makes it easier to cut.
Step 5: Serve
- Garnish: If desired, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the top of the casserole for added color and flavor.
- Serve Warm: Serve the breakfast casserole warm, cut into squares. Enjoy it as is, or with a side of fruit, toast, or a fresh salad.
Cooking Notes
- Customizing Fillings: Feel free to customize the fillings based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Mushrooms, spinach, and tomatoes make great additions.
- Cheese Variations: Use your favorite cheeses or a combination of cheeses for different flavors.
- Make-Ahead: This casserole can be assembled the night before and baked in the morning. Simply cover and refrigerate overnight, then bake as directed.
Variations
- Vegetarian Casserole: Omit the meats and add more vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, and tomatoes for a delicious vegetarian version.
- Spicy Casserole: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the egg mixture for a spicy kick.
- Keto Casserole: Replace the flour with almond flour or coconut flour to make the casserole keto-friendly.
Keto Version
To make a keto-friendly version, substitute the all-purpose flour with almond flour or coconut flour and ensure that the meats and cheeses used are low in carbs.
Low Carb Version
For a lower-carb option, use a combination of almond flour and coconut flour instead of all-purpose flour. This will help reduce the overall carb content of the dish.
This savory breakfast casserole is a fantastic way to start your day with a hearty and delicious meal. The combination of eggs, meats, vegetables, and cheese creates a dish that’s both flavorful and satisfying. Whether you’re preparing it for a special brunch or a busy weekday morning, this breakfast casserole is sure to please. Enjoy making and sharing this delightful dish with your family and friends. Happy cooking!
Tips for Perfect Breakfast Casserole
- Even Layering: Ensure that the fillings are evenly distributed in the baking dish for consistent flavor in every bite.
- Checking Doneness: Use a knife or toothpick to check the center of the casserole. It should come out clean when the casserole is fully cooked.
- Serving Suggestions: This casserole pairs well with fresh fruit, toast, or a side salad for a complete meal.
By following these steps and tips, you can create a savory breakfast casserole that’s both delicious and impressive. Enjoy this wonderful dish and the smiles it brings to everyone who tastes it.
