This 12 egg breakfast casserole is a hearty, satisfying dish perfect for weekend brunches or feeding a crowd on busy mornings. Its simple prep and versatile ingredients make it a reliable go-to for a nourishing start to the day, and it can be customized to suit various tastes and dietary needs.
Ingredients
- 12 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk (or half-and-half for richer flavor)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
- 1 pound cooked breakfast sausage, crumbled (or cooked bacon, diced)
- 1 cup chopped bell peppers (any color)
- 1 cup chopped onions
- 2 cups frozen hash browns or diced potatoes
- Optional: 1/2 cup chopped fresh herbs (parsley, chives)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
- Cook the breakfast sausage in a skillet over medium heat until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Add the shredded cheese, cooked sausage, chopped bell peppers, onions, and hash browns to the egg mixture. Stir until evenly distributed.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading evenly.
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the eggs are set in the center and the top is golden brown.
- Remove from oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
- Serve warm, cut into squares, and enjoy a hearty breakfast that can feed a crowd!
Tips
- Substitutions: Swap out the sausage for cooked ham, turkey sausage, or vegetarian options like sautéed mushrooms and spinach.
- Cheese choices: Use your favorite cheese or a combination, such as feta and mozzarella, for different flavor profiles.
- Vegetable options: Feel free to add chopped tomatoes, spinach, or zucchini for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Cooking tips: Ensure the eggs are fully cooked but not overbaked to keep the casserole moist. Cover loosely with foil if the top browns too quickly.
Serving Suggestions
Slice the casserole into squares and serve with fresh fruit, a side of toast or English muffins, or a dollop of sour cream or salsa for added flavor. This dish pairs well with a light green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete breakfast spread.
Variations
For a low-carb or keto-friendly version, omit the hash browns and increase the cheese and vegetables. To make it vegetarian, skip the sausage and add more vegetables or cooked beans. You can also incorporate different cheeses or spices such as paprika or cumin to vary the flavor profile. For a Mediterranean twist, add chopped sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese.
Storage and Reheating
Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave individual servings for 1-2 minutes or reheat the entire dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. For best results, reheat portions covered loosely with foil to prevent drying out.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare this casserole the night before?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole the night before and refrigerate it overnight. Just bake it in the morning, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely. Let the casserole cool completely, then cut into portions and wrap tightly in plastic wrap or foil. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What if I don’t have hash browns?
Hash browns add texture and bulk, but you can substitute with diced cooked potatoes, sweet potatoes, or even omit them entirely if you prefer a more egg-focused dish. Adjust the baking time as needed.
How do I prevent the eggs from overbaking or drying out?
Keep an eye on the casserole as it bakes; once the eggs are just set in the middle and the top is golden, remove it from the oven. Covering with foil during baking can help retain moisture.
Can I make this casserole gluten-free?
Yes, as long as all your ingredients are gluten-free. Use gluten-free sausage and check labels on processed ingredients like hash browns and cheese to ensure they haven’t been cross-contaminated.
Is this suitable for kids?
Yes, this casserole is kid-friendly. You can customize the ingredients to include their favorite vegetables or cheeses, and it’s great for making ahead for busy mornings.
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