Breakfast Casserole Recipe

The Coziest Morning Breakfast Casserole Recipe Ever

A hearty breakfast casserole that turns ordinary mornings into extraordinary culinary adventures.

Every bite promises a symphony of flavors waiting to dance across your palate.

Layers of fluffy eggs, crispy bacon, and melted cheese create a mouthwatering masterpiece that screams comfort.

Home cooks and breakfast enthusiasts will absolutely fall in love with this simple yet impressive dish.

Impressing your weekend guests with minimal effort and maximum deliciousness.

Families gather around the table, eager to dig into this irresistible morning delight.

You can’t wait to start cooking and savor each delectable spoonful.

Why Breakfast Casserole Is Always A Crowd Favorite

  • Create a Hearty Morning Feast: This breakfast casserole delivers a satisfying one-pan meal packed with protein and flavor that will energize your entire day.
  • Simplify Breakfast Prep: With minimal ingredients and straightforward assembly, this recipe saves precious morning time while providing a delicious homemade breakfast everyone will love.
  • Master Effortless Comfort Cooking: The easy layering technique allows even novice cooks to produce a professional-looking dish that impresses family and guests with zero complicated techniques.
  • Customize Your Morning Delight: Flexible ingredients mean you can swap sausage for bacon, add different cheeses, or include vegetables to match your taste preferences and kitchen inventory.

Smart Tips For The Best Breakfast Casserole

  • Prep Ahead Smartly: Assemble the casserole the night before and refrigerate, allowing flavors to meld and saving morning cooking time.
  • Customize Protein Choices: Swap breakfast sausage with bacon, ham, or turkey sausage to match dietary preferences or pantry ingredients.
  • Boost Veggie Nutrition: Add diced bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for extra nutrients and color without compromising the casserole's texture.
  • Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free hash browns and verify sausage ingredients to create a celiac-friendly breakfast option.
  • Control Spice and Seasoning: Adjust garlic and onion powder quantities to match personal taste preferences or reduce sodium content.

How To Store And Reheat Breakfast Casserole Without Hassle

  • Refrigerate Leftovers: Transfer cooled casserole to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Ensure the container seals tightly to maintain freshness and prevent absorption of other food odors.
  • Freeze Portions: Wrap individual servings or the entire casserole in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Label the package with the date to track storage time.
  • Reheat in Oven: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Preheat oven to 350F. Cover with foil to prevent drying out. Warm for 15-20 minutes until heated through and cheese melts. Check internal temperature reaches 165F for food safety.
  • Microwave Option: Place a single serving on a microwave-safe plate. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each to distribute heat evenly. Stop when thoroughly warm to avoid rubbery texture.

What Goes Great With Breakfast Casserole

  • Brew Bold Breakfast Coffee: Select a robust, dark roast coffee that complements the hearty sausage and cheesy flavors. The strong coffee cuts through the richness of the casserole, creating a perfect morning balance.
  • Pair with Zesty Bloody Mary: Mix a spicy Bloody Mary with fresh tomato juice, vodka, and a dash of hot sauce. The tangy, savory cocktail matches the casserole's bold breakfast profile and adds a refreshing kick.
  • Serve with Fresh Citrus Salad: Toss together segments of grapefruit, orange, and mandarin with a light honey drizzle. The bright, acidic fruit provides a clean contrast to the heavy, cheesy casserole and cleanses the palate.
  • Add Crisp Apple Mimosa: Blend fresh apple juice with champagne for a light, bubbly morning drink. The sweet-tart apple complements the savory sausage and adds a festive touch to the breakfast spread.

Creative Twists On Breakfast Casserole To Try

  • Veggie Power Breakfast: Replace sausage with sautéed bell peppers, spinach, and mushrooms for a nutritious vegetarian version. Add crumbled feta cheese for extra flavor and protein.
  • Southwest Spice Casserole: Mix in diced jalapeños, black beans, and corn. Top with pepper jack cheese and sprinkle with taco seasoning for a zesty southwestern kick.
  • Mediterranean Morning Mix: Swap hash browns with roasted potato cubes. Incorporate sundried tomatoes, kalamata olives, and crumbled goat cheese. Season with oregano and basil for a Mediterranean-inspired breakfast.
  • Smoky Bacon Lover's Edition: Substitute sausage with crispy bacon pieces. Add smoked cheddar cheese and a dash of smoked paprika for a rich, smoky profile.

FAQs You Should Know About Breakfast Casserole

  • Can I use a different type of meat instead of breakfast sausage?

You can easily substitute breakfast sausage with bacon, ham, or even chorizo for a different flavor profile. Just make sure to cook the alternative meat thoroughly before adding it to the casserole.

  • Is this breakfast casserole gluten-free?

The recipe as written isn’t naturally gluten-free due to potential ingredients like hash browns. To make it gluten-free, use certified gluten-free hash browns and verify that your sausage and cheese are also gluten-free.

  • How can I make this recipe healthier?

You can reduce calories by using turkey sausage, egg whites instead of whole eggs, low-fat cheese, and adding more vegetables like spinach or bell peppers to increase nutritional value. Alternatively, use a milk alternative like almond milk for fewer calories.

  • Can I prepare this casserole the night before?

Absolutely! Assemble the entire casserole the night before, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. In the morning, remove it from the refrigerator 30 minutes before baking and cook as directed. This makes breakfast preparation super easy.

What You’ll Need To Make Breakfast Casserole

Breakfast Base:
  • Hash Browns: Crispy potato base that provides texture and heartiness for the casserole.
  • Breakfast Sausage: Flavorful meat that adds protein and rich savory notes to the dish. Choose a high-quality brand with good seasoning.
Protein and Binding Ingredients:
  • Eggs, Milk: Essential for creating a creamy, custardy texture that binds the casserole together. Use large eggs and whole milk for best results.
Cheese and Seasonings:
  • Cheddar Cheese, Monterey Jack Cheese: Melty cheeses that provide creamy richness and sharp flavor. Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-packaged.
  • Salt, Black Pepper: Classic seasonings that enhance overall flavor profile.
  • Garlic Powder, Onion Powder: Subtle background seasonings that add depth without overwhelming the dish. Use high-quality dried spices for best taste.
Optional Garnish:
  • Green Onions: Fresh topping that adds a light, crisp finish and visual appeal. Optional but recommended for extra flavor.

How To Prepare Breakfast Casserole Easily

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Fire up your oven to a toasty 375°F (190°C). Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and give it a gentle brush of oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Sizzle the Sausage

Grab a skillet and dance the sausage over medium heat. Let it sizzle and brown until it’s fully cooked and looking deliciously crispy. Tip out any extra grease to keep things light.

Step 3: Build Your Breakfast Layers

Spread out the hash browns across the bottom of your baking dish like a cozy blanket. Sprinkle the golden sausage bits all over. Now, in a big mixing bowl, whip up a magical egg mixture:
  • Eggs
  • Milk
  • Salt
  • Black pepper
  • Garlic powder
  • Onion powder
Whisk these friends together until they’re perfectly blended. Pour this creamy river evenly over the hash browns and sausage. Crown your creation with a snowy layer of:
  • Cheddar cheese
  • Monterey Jack cheese

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Slide your masterpiece into the oven and let it bake uncovered for 35-40 minutes. You’re looking for a golden-brown top and eggs that are set like a beautiful sunrise.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

Give your casserole a quick 5-minute breather. Sprinkle some fresh green onions on top if you’re feeling fancy. Slice, serve, and watch everyone’s eyes light up with breakfast joy!

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Breakfast Casserole Recipe

Breakfast Casserole Recipe


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4.8 from 14 reviews

  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

Hearty Mexican breakfast casserole promises a fiesta of flavors that dance across your palate with zesty chorizo, eggs, and melted cheese. Bold spices and rich ingredients combine to create a morning meal that will energize and delight you from the first satisfying bite.


Ingredients

Scale

Breakfast Casserole

Main Protein:

  • 1 lb (450 g) breakfast sausage, cooked and crumbled

Base Ingredients:

  • 1 bag (32 ounces or 900 g) frozen hash browns, thawed
  • 8 large eggs
  • 1 cup (240 milliliters) whole milk
  • 2 cups (200 g) shredded cheddar cheese
  • ½ cup (50 g) shredded Monterey Jack cheese (optional)

Seasonings and Garnish:

  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ¼ cup (30 g) chopped green onions (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the cooking vessel by coating a 9×13-inch baking dish with a light layer of cooking spray, ensuring complete coverage to prevent sticking.
  2. Render the breakfast sausage in a heavy-bottomed skillet, breaking it into small crumbles while cooking over medium heat until no pink remains and a rich golden-brown color develops. Carefully drain excess rendered fat using a slotted spoon.
  3. Create a foundational layer of thawed hash browns across the entire surface of the greased baking dish, pressing down gently to create an even base.
  4. Distribute the cooked sausage crumbles uniformly over the potato layer, creating a cohesive protein foundation.
  5. Whisk eggs in a spacious mixing bowl, incorporating milk and a harmonious blend of seasonings including salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder until the mixture achieves a smooth, consistent texture.
  6. Gently cascade the seasoned egg mixture across the sausage and hash brown layers, ensuring comprehensive coverage and even distribution.
  7. Generously sprinkle a blend of shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses over the top, creating a melty, golden blanket.
  8. Transfer the assembled casserole to a preheated oven set at 375°F (190°C), allowing it to bake uncovered for approximately 35-40 minutes until the eggs set completely and the cheese turns a tempting golden-brown.
  9. Remove from the oven and allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes, enabling the ingredients to settle and making serving easier.
  10. Optional: Garnish with finely chopped green onions for a fresh, vibrant touch before serving warm.

Notes

  • Customize the sausage by using turkey or plant-based alternatives for a lighter, healthier version that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
  • Swap traditional hash browns with sweet potato or cauliflower hash for a nutrient-dense, low-carb twist that adds exciting texture and taste.
  • Prep the casserole the night before and refrigerate, allowing flavors to meld and making morning cooking a breeze for busy households or weekend brunches.
  • Add diced bell peppers or spinach to boost vegetable content, creating a more balanced meal that sneaks extra nutrition into a crowd-pleasing breakfast.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: Breakfast
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 460
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 900 mg
  • Fat: 30 g
  • Saturated Fat: 13 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
  • Trans Fat: 1 g
  • Carbohydrates: 27 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 24 g
  • Cholesterol: 260 mg
Jenna Stewart

Jenna Stewart

Head Chef & Recipe Innovator

Expertise

Farm-to-Table Cooking; Seasonal Menu Development; Visual Plating Techniques; Flavor Layering and Simple Prep Hacks.

Education

The Culinary Institute of America, Hyde Park, NY

  • Program: Associate Degree in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Hands-on training in classic and modern techniques, global cuisines, and flavor development, combined with real-world experience in restaurant operations, business management, and industry internships.

Jenna Stewart is the inventive spirit behind many of our standout dishes at Pro of Delicious Creations. A proud graduate of The Culinary Institute of America, she built her skills mastering both classic recipes and fresh, modern twists.

Now, Jenna celebrates the beauty of seasonal, local ingredients, often sourced from her garden and nearby markets, to create recipes that are bursting with flavor yet easy to follow. When she’s not experimenting in the kitchen, Jenna loves exploring nature on hikes and discovering new treasures at local co-ops.

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