Oh, how I love breakfast! There’s just something so comforting about starting the day with a delicious meal that feels like a warm hug. One of my absolute favorite go-to recipes for breakfast is this Easy Breakfast Casserole. It’s not only perfect for lazy Sunday mornings, but it’s also a total lifesaver on busy weekdays when you need energy without the fuss. And let me tell you, when you take that first bite, the combination of fluffy eggs, savory sausage, and melty cheese is pure magic!
I’ve made this casserole countless times for family gatherings, brunches, and even holiday celebrations. In fact, my kids constantly ask for it to make an appearance over the weekends. I remember one memorable Sunday when I whipped this up for my sleepy crew, and as the tantalizing smell wafted through our home, everyone flocked to the kitchen like bees to honey! Alright, let’s dive into this dish that has won the hearts (and stomachs) of many!
What’s in Easy Breakfast Casserole?
- Ground breakfast sausage: This is the star of the dish! I love using a spicy sausage for that extra kick, but feel free to opt for mild or turkey sausage if you’re watching your fat intake.
- Eggs: Eight large eggs provide the protein base for this casserole, giving it that rich and fluffy texture that everyone craves in the morning.
- Shredded hash browns: Whether you go for frozen or fresh, the hash browns bring that delightful crunch—trust me, it’s key to the overall texture of the dish!
- Cheddar cheese: Shredded cheddar is my go-to, but feel free to mix it up—Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a spicy twist work wonders, too!
- Bell pepper: A half-cup of diced bell pepper adds color and sweetness (pick your favorite color!), delivering a nice crunch alongside the other ingredients.
- Milk: Just a bit of milk helps to create a creaminess that wraps around the eggs. I usually go for whole or 2% milk.
- Garlic powder & onion powder: These spices are my secret pantry staples, infusing the casserole with flavor without any chopping required!
- Salt and black pepper: Of course, season to taste! This dish needs just the right amount of seasoning to elevate it to breakfast stardom.
Is Easy Breakfast Casserole Good for You?
Well, that all depends on your perspective! This Easy Breakfast Casserole is loaded with protein from the eggs and sausage, plus some fiber and nutrients from the hash browns and bell peppers. However, it can be a bit indulgent due to its richness, so if you’re keeping a close eye on calories or fat, you might want to consider some variations. Swapping out the pork sausage for turkey or veggie sausage, or using egg whites instead of whole eggs can lighten things up significantly. Balance it out with a nice green salad or some fresh fruit on the side, and you’ll have a breakfast that feels just right!
Ingredients List
- 1 lb ground breakfast sausage
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups shredded hash browns (frozen or fresh)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced bell pepper (any color)
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How to Make Easy Breakfast Casserole?
- First, let’s get your oven preheating to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial for that perfectly baked casserole.
- Next, grab a large skillet and cook the ground breakfast sausage over medium heat until it’s nicely browned and fully cooked. Don’t forget to drain off any excess fat—nobody wants a greasy breakfast!
- In a big mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Make sure it’s combined well; this is where the flavor magic happens!
- Now, take a greased 9×13 inch baking dish and create layers. Start with the cooked sausage, then add the hash browns, followed by the diced bell pepper, and finish off with the shredded cheddar cheese on top.
- Pour that gloriously whisked egg mixture evenly over the layered ingredients in the baking dish. It’s going to look fabulous!
- Slide it into the preheated oven and let it bake for around 35-40 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the casserole is set in the center, and the top is a beautiful golden brown.
- Once out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes before slicing it up and serving. You can almost hear your family cheering for breakfast!
Tips for an Epic Breakfast Casserole
- Feel free to get creative! You can toss in other veggies like diced tomatoes, zucchini, or even spinach for added nutrients.
- If you’re short on time in the morning, prepare the casserole the night before! Just mix everything, cover it, and refrigerate. In the morning, bake it right from the fridge—it’s a life-saver!
- Leftovers? They reheat like a dream! Just pop them in the microwave or oven for a couple of minutes, and you’ve got breakfast all over again.
This Easy Breakfast Casserole is an absolute winner in my house, and I have a feeling it’ll be a hit in yours too! So gather your ingredients, invite your family to the kitchen, and enjoy the delightful aroma that fills your home. I can’t wait to hear how your casserole turns out, so be sure to share your culinary adventures! Happy cooking!
