If you’re on the hunt for a swoon-worthy, savory, and absolutely crowd-pleasing breakfast, look no further than this irresistible Breakfast Casserole. Bursting with golden hash browns, fluffy eggs, hearty sausage, and melty cheese, it’s the kind of dish that transforms even the sleepiest morning into an event. Whether you’re planning brunch, hosting house guests, or just want leftovers that feel like a warm hug, this Breakfast Casserole is your new go-to favorite, and it never fails to impress!
Ingredients You’ll Need
What makes this Breakfast Casserole so special are the incredibly simple but essential ingredients that shine in every bite. Each one brings its own magic to the table, combining for layers of flavor, creamy richness, and a satisfying texture that keeps everyone coming back for seconds.
- Large Eggs: The heart of the casserole, providing a luscious, custardy base that holds everything together.
- Whole Milk: Adds creaminess and helps the eggs bake up light and tender.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Brings bold, sharp flavor and the classic cheesy stretch every casserole needs.
- Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Gives a gooey, melty finish with mild creaminess.
- Breakfast Sausage (cooked and crumbled): Infuses the dish with savory depth; swap in bacon or go veggie if you prefer!
- Diced Bell Peppers (red and green): Add sweet crunch and a pop of color that brightens up the whole pan.
- Chopped Onion: Delivers aromatic sweetness and pairs perfectly with the peppers and sausage.
- Frozen Hash Browns (thawed): Provide a hearty, comforting base and those golden edges everyone loves.
- Garlic Powder: Lends subtle warmth and enhances every other flavor in the casserole.
- Salt: Essential for pulling out the savory notes in the eggs, cheese, and sausage.
- Black Pepper: Adds gentle heat and a little kick to keep things interesting.
- Nonstick Cooking Spray: Ensures easy release and a picture-perfect casserole slice, every time.
How to Make Breakfast Casserole
Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Preheat
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and give your 9×13-inch baking dish a generous mist of nonstick cooking spray. This important step keeps your Breakfast Casserole from sticking and guarantees that those beautiful, golden edges stay intact when you slice and serve.
Step 2: Whisk Together the Eggs and Milk
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. You’re aiming for a smooth, frothy mixture that promises a creamy bite and even seasoning in every forkful of your Breakfast Casserole.
Step 3: Add the Cheeses, Sausage, and Veggies
Stir in the cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, cooked and crumbled breakfast sausage, diced bell peppers, chopped onion, and thawed hash browns. This is where the magic happens! Each addition brings texture, flavor, and color—turning your egg custard into a true breakfast masterpiece.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Pour the entire mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Pop it into the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the center is just set and the top is a mouthwatering golden brown. The heavenly aroma filling your kitchen is just a bonus!
Step 5: Rest and Slice
Let your Breakfast Casserole rest for at least 5 minutes after you pull it from the oven. This gives the eggs a moment to finish setting and makes slicing a breeze. Trust me, it’s worth the tiny wait for picture-perfect, steamy squares!
How to Serve Breakfast Casserole
Garnishes
Top your Breakfast Casserole with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like chives, parsley, or green onions for an extra pop of color and bright flavor. A dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce takes every bite to the next level.
Side Dishes
This casserole is perfectly filling on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with simple sides like a fresh fruit salad, buttery toast, or a crisp green salad. For something extra cozy, serve it with a side of warm biscuits or breakfast muffins.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut your Breakfast Casserole into bite-sized squares for a brunch buffet, or use a biscuit cutter for fun circular servings. Hosting a party? Serve with a toppings bar—think salsa, avocado, or even crumbled bacon bits—so guests can make each slice their own.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Got leftover Breakfast Casserole? Lucky you! Let the casserole cool completely, then transfer slices to an airtight container. It’ll stay fresh and satisfying in the fridge for up to 4 days, making quick breakfasts a breeze all week long.
Freezing
Breakfast Casserole freezes beautifully. Wrap cooled slices tightly in plastic wrap, pop them in a freezer-safe bag or container, and store for up to 2 months. Just be sure to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating for optimal texture.
Reheating
To reheat, warm individual servings in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or pop larger portions back into the oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot throughout. Cover with foil if you want to keep it from drying out and retain that delicious, melty center.
FAQs
Can I make this Breakfast Casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prep it the night before and refrigerate the unbaked casserole. In the morning, just pop it in the oven for an effortless hot breakfast that tastes freshly made.
Is this Breakfast Casserole gluten-free?
Yes, it’s naturally gluten-free as long as your hash browns and sausage are certified gluten-free. Always double-check labels if you’re serving someone with dietary restrictions.
What substitutions can I make?
You can easily substitute the sausage for cooked bacon, diced ham, or keep it vegetarian by omitting the meat and adding more veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or tomatoes. This recipe is endlessly customizable!
Can this be made without dairy?
Sure! Use your favorite non-dairy milk and dairy-free cheese to create a delicious, lactose-free version. The casserole bakes up just as creamy and satisfying.
How do I know when the Breakfast Casserole is done baking?
The casserole is done when the center is set (not jiggly) and the top is golden brown. You can also insert a knife in the center; if it comes out clean, you’re good to go!
Final Thoughts
This Breakfast Casserole is the kind of dish that brings the whole table together, filling your home with warmth and incredible aromas. Give it a try the next time you have friends or family over—you might just find yourself looking for reasons to make it again. Here’s to savory, cheesy mornings and easy breakfasts that never disappoint!
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Breakfast Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This delicious Breakfast Casserole is the perfect make-ahead dish for a hearty morning meal. Packed with eggs, cheese, sausage, veggies, and hash browns, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s great for brunch or a cozy breakfast at home.
Ingredients
Egg Mixture:
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Additional Ingredients:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 lb breakfast sausage (cooked and crumbled)
- 1 cup diced bell peppers (red and green)
- ½ cup chopped onion
- 2 cups frozen hash browns (thawed)
- nonstick cooking spray
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray.
- Mix Egg Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Add Ingredients: Stir in the cheeses, cooked sausage, bell peppers, onion, and hash browns.
- Bake: Pour the mixture into the prepared dish and bake for 35–40 minutes until set and golden brown.
- Rest and Serve: Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
- You can prepare this casserole ahead and refrigerate it overnight before baking.
- Customize by using bacon instead of sausage or make it vegetarian with veggies like spinach or mushrooms.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 17g
- Cholesterol: 215mg
