Breakfast Casserole

Discover the best breakfast casserole recipe with simple ingredients. Perfect for meal prep, brunch, or a hearty family breakfast. Try it today!

Looking for a delicious and easy breakfast casserole recipe to start your day right? This homemade breakfast bake is packed with cheesy goodness, savory ingredients, and a perfect balance of flavors. Whether you’re preparing for a busy morning or hosting a brunch, this overnight breakfast casserole is a crowd-pleaser. Let’s dive into how you can make this cheesy breakfast casserole effortlessly.

Breakfast casseroles are a fantastic way to feed a crowd or meal prep for the week. They are versatile, easy to customize, and always satisfying. This recipe combines classic ingredients like eggs, cheese, and your choice of meat or veggies, making it a hearty and nutritious option for any morning.

With minimal prep time and the option to make it ahead, this breakfast casserole recipe is perfect for those who want a stress-free yet delicious meal. Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Breakfast Casserole Recipe

This breakfast casserole is not just delicious; it’s also incredibly convenient. Whether you’re a busy parent, a meal prep enthusiast, or someone who loves hosting brunches, this recipe is designed to make your life easier. Here’s why you’ll love it:

• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe foolproof.
• Customizable: Swap in your favorite veggies, meats, or cheeses to suit your taste.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it the night before and bake it in the morning for a hassle-free breakfast.
• Perfect for Crowds: This casserole serves a group, making it ideal for family gatherings or brunch parties.

Ingredients for Breakfast Casserole

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious breakfast casserole:

• 6 large eggs
• 1 cup milk (or half-and-half for extra creaminess)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 lb breakfast sausage (or bacon, ham, or turkey sausage)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 4 cups frozen hash browns (or diced potatoes)
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

How to Make Breakfast Casserole – Step by Step

Follow these simple steps to create the perfect breakfast casserole:

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cook the Meat and Veggies

In a large skillet, cook the breakfast sausage (or your choice of meat) over medium heat until browned. Add the diced onion and bell pepper, cooking until softened. Drain any excess grease and set aside.

Step 3: Mix the Eggs and Cheese

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir in 1 1/2 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese and the Parmesan cheese.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Spread the frozen hash browns evenly in the prepared baking dish. Top with the cooked meat and veggie mixture. Pour the egg and cheese mixture over the top, ensuring everything is evenly coated. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese on top.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the casserole is set and the top is golden brown. If you prefer a crispier top, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm.

Expert Tips for Perfect Results

To ensure your breakfast casserole turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Allow eggs and milk to come to room temperature before mixing for a smoother texture.
• Customize Your Ingredients: Swap out meats or veggies based on what you have on hand or dietary preferences.
• Prep Ahead: Assemble the casserole the night before and refrigerate. Bake it in the morning for a fresh, hot breakfast.

Serving Suggestions

This breakfast casserole is delicious on its own, but you can also pair it with:

• Fresh fruit salad
• Toasted bread or biscuits
• Avocado slices
• Hot sauce or salsa for a spicy kick

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions or warm the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

Variations and Substitutions

Feel free to customize this breakfast casserole to suit your tastes:

• Vegetarian Option: Skip the meat and add extra veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini.
• Gluten-Free: Ensure all ingredients are gluten-free, and use a gluten-free baking dish if necessary.
• Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free cheese and milk alternatives like almond or coconut milk.

Nutritional Benefits

This breakfast casserole is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients:

• Protein: Eggs and meat provide a high-protein start to your day.
• Vitamins and Minerals: Veggies like bell peppers and onions add essential vitamins and fiber.
• Calcium: Cheese is a great source of calcium for strong bones.

Common Questions About Breakfast Casserole

Here are some frequently asked questions about making and enjoying breakfast casserole:

• Pre-Cook Your Veggies: Sautéing onions and bell peppers before adding them to the casserole enhances their flavor and ensures they cook evenly.
• Use a Mix of Cheeses: Combining cheddar and Parmesan creates a richer flavor profile. Experiment with other cheeses like Swiss or pepper jack for variety.
• Avoid Overmixing: When combining the egg mixture, stir just until everything is incorporated to keep the texture light and fluffy.
• Add a Crunchy Topping: Sprinkle crushed cornflakes or breadcrumbs on top before baking for added texture.
• Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the egg mixture for a spicy kick.
• Use Leftover Ingredients: This casserole is a great way to use up leftover meats, veggies, or even cooked potatoes.
• Check for Doneness: Insert a knife into the center of the casserole. If it comes out clean, the casserole is ready.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the casserole to rest for a few minutes after baking makes it easier to slice and serve.