The Old-Fashioned Breakfast Casserole is a hearty and nostalgic dish, ideal for gatherings, holidays, or cozy mornings. Its delicious combination of crispy hash browns, savory sausage, sautéed vegetables, creamy eggs, and melted cheese makes it a versatile option for breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients
- 4 cups frozen hash browns, thawed
- 1 lb breakfast sausage, crumbled and cooked
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/2 cup diced bell peppers (red and green)
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Directions
- Preheat Oven: Set the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Prepare Hash Brown Layer: Spread the thawed hash browns evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- Cook Sausage: In a skillet, cook the crumbled sausage until browned. Remove and drain excess grease.
- Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, sauté the onions, bell peppers, and spinach until softened.
- Layer Ingredients: Spread the cooked sausage over the hash browns, followed by the sautéed vegetables. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top.
- Make Egg Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
- Assemble Casserole: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layered ingredients in the baking dish. Top with the remaining cheddar cheese.
- Bake: Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown.
- Rest and Serve: Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Protein: 15g
- Fat: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 580mg
Enjoy this flavorful and filling casserole as a complete meal or pair it with sides like fresh fruit salad or buttered toast for an unforgettable breakfast experience!
The Old-Fashioned Breakfast Casserole: A Hearty Classic for Every Occasion
When it comes to hearty and nostalgic comfort food, the Old-Fashioned Breakfast Casserole stands in a league of its own. A versatile and flavorful dish, this casserole brings together a delightful combination of crispy hash browns, savory sausage, sautéed vegetables, creamy eggs, and melted cheese. Its appeal goes beyond the ingredients—it’s about the memories it creates, the gatherings it enhances, and the warmth it brings to the table. Whether you’re preparing for a festive holiday breakfast, a weekend brunch with loved ones, or a cozy morning meal, this casserole has all the elements to become a favorite tradition.
A Perfect Dish for All Occasions
The Old-Fashioned Breakfast Casserole is more than just a meal—it’s an experience. Its versatility makes it an ideal choice for various occasions, from casual family mornings to special celebrations. Hosting a holiday gathering? This casserole can easily feed a crowd and be prepped in advance, freeing up your time to focus on hosting duties. Planning a relaxed weekend brunch? Its rich flavors and satisfying textures make it the star of the table, pairing beautifully with fresh fruit, toast, or even a mimosa.
Additionally, this dish offers the convenience of being a one-pan meal. Its layered structure simplifies preparation, while its all-in-one approach reduces the need for multiple side dishes. This is particularly helpful when serving large groups, as it keeps both your kitchen and your stress levels under control.
Why the Old-Fashioned Breakfast Casserole Stands Out
- Balanced Nutrition with Comfort Food Appeal
While it’s undeniably indulgent, the Old-Fashioned Breakfast Casserole also packs a nutritional punch. Eggs provide a rich source of protein and essential vitamins, while fresh vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, and onions add fiber and nutrients. Hash browns deliver comforting carbs, and the cheese brings both calcium and a luxurious creaminess. This balance of indulgence and nourishment ensures that the casserole satisfies both the taste buds and the body. - Customizable for Dietary Preferences
One of the casserole’s best features is its adaptability. Have vegetarian guests? Swap out the sausage for plant-based alternatives or additional vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini. Looking to make it gluten-free? Use certified gluten-free hash browns and sausage. Prefer a leaner option? Opt for turkey sausage, reduced-fat cheese, or skim milk. This recipe provides a strong foundation while allowing endless variations to suit individual preferences and dietary needs. - A Crowd-Pleasing Flavor Profile
The combination of crispy, golden-brown hash browns with savory sausage, fragrant vegetables, and gooey cheese creates an irresistible flavor profile. The egg mixture, infused with garlic powder and smoked paprika, ties everything together, giving the casserole depth and a subtle smoky kick. The result is a dish that feels familiar yet elevated—a comfort food classic with just the right touch of sophistication.
Tips for Perfecting Your Breakfast Casserole
Achieving a perfect Old-Fashioned Breakfast Casserole requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure success every time:
- Thaw and Drain the Hash Browns: Excess moisture can prevent the hash browns from achieving their signature crispy texture. Make sure they’re thoroughly thawed and patted dry before layering them in the dish.
- Cook the Sausage and Vegetables Separately: Cooking the sausage and vegetables beforehand ensures they release their juices and flavors without making the casserole watery.
- Whisk the Eggs Thoroughly: For a light and fluffy texture, whisk the eggs with the milk until fully combined and slightly frothy.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and high-quality cheese will elevate the overall taste and texture of the casserole.
- Let it Rest Before Serving: Allowing the casserole to rest for a few minutes after baking helps the layers set and makes slicing easier.
Make-Ahead Convenience
One of the standout features of this casserole is its ability to be prepared ahead of time. This makes it a lifesaver for busy mornings or holiday gatherings when you want to minimize time in the kitchen. Simply assemble the casserole the night before, cover it with foil, and refrigerate. In the morning, pop it into the oven and bake as directed. This approach not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld together overnight for an even more delicious result.
Pairing Suggestions
While the Old-Fashioned Breakfast Casserole is a complete meal in itself, pairing it with complementary dishes can elevate your breakfast or brunch spread. Consider serving it with:
- Fresh Fruit Salad: The sweetness and juiciness of fresh fruits provide a refreshing contrast to the casserole’s richness.
- Buttered Toast or Biscuits: A side of warm, buttery bread is perfect for mopping up every last bit of cheesy goodness.
- A Light Salad: For brunch occasions, a simple green salad with a citrus vinaigrette can add a fresh and tangy balance to the meal.
- Beverages: Coffee, tea, or freshly squeezed orange juice are classic choices, but for a festive brunch, a sparkling mimosa or a Bloody Mary can add a celebratory touch.
Why This Recipe is a Timeless Classic
The Old-Fashioned Breakfast Casserole resonates with so many people because it evokes a sense of comfort and nostalgia. It’s a dish that feels like home—a reminder of holiday mornings with family, lazy weekends, or the warmth of a shared meal. Its adaptability and ease of preparation make it a reliable go-to, while its hearty, satisfying nature ensures it will be remembered long after the last bite.
Conclusion
The Old-Fashioned Breakfast Casserole is more than just a recipe—it’s a culinary tradition that brings people together. Its layers of flavors and textures, combined with its versatility and ease of preparation, make it a standout choice for breakfast or brunch. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, feeding a hungry family, or simply indulging in a cozy morning meal, this casserole promises to deliver on every level.
Embrace the simplicity, savor the nostalgia, and enjoy the delicious journey that is the Old-Fashioned Breakfast Casserole. With its timeless appeal, this dish is sure to remain a cherished favorite for years to come.
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Old-Fashioned Breakfast Casserole
Description
The Old-Fashioned Breakfast Casserole is a hearty and nostalgic dish, ideal for gatherings, holidays, or cozy mornings. Its delicious combination of crispy hash browns, savory sausage, sautéed vegetables, creamy eggs, and melted cheese makes it a versatile option for breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients
- 4 cups frozen hash browns, thawed
- 1 lb breakfast sausage, crumbled and cooked
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/2 cup diced bell peppers (red and green)
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Prepare Hash Brown Layer: Spread the thawed hash browns evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- Cook Sausage: In a skillet, cook the crumbled sausage until browned. Remove and drain excess grease.
- Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, sauté the onions, bell peppers, and spinach until softened.
- Layer Ingredients: Spread the cooked sausage over the hash browns, followed by the sautéed vegetables. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top.
- Make Egg Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
- Assemble Casserole: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layered ingredients in the baking dish. Top with the remaining cheddar cheese.
- Bake: Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown.
- Rest and Serve: Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing and serving.