Easy Breakfast Casserole

Cozy Breakfast Casserole: A Simple Family Favorite

It’s one of those cozy Sunday mornings where the sun is just peeking through the kitchen window, casting a warm glow over everything. The enticing aroma of a comforting breakfast fills the air, and I can’t help but smile, knowing that we’re about to gather around the table for a meal that feels like a big hug. This Cozy Breakfast Casserole is not only simple to put together, but it’s also a delightful dish that allows everyone to start the day with a hearty and satisfying bite.

As families rush around in the mornings, balancing the hustle of everyday life, having a go-to breakfast like this makes all the difference. It’s creamy, cheesy, and filled with flavors that remind us of home, without requiring hours in the kitchen. Let’s dive into why you’ll love this recipe, and how to create it with ease.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cozy Breakfast Casserole is the ultimate make-ahead dish. Perfect for brunches, holiday mornings, or even just a weekday family gathering, it checks all the boxes: hearty, satisfying, and easily customizable. The blend of fluffy eggs, perfectly cooked veggies, and melty cheese creates a mouthwatering harmony that everyone will adore. Plus, you can whip it up in advance and just pop it in the oven when you’re ready—who doesn’t love a dish that does most of the work for you?

Every bite is a celebration, whether you’re savoring it yourself or sharing smiles around the breakfast table. And the best part? You can get creative with the ingredients, making it just right for your taste buds and dietary preferences.

Ingredients for Cozy Breakfast Casserole

• 1 pound breakfast sausage (or substitute with beef bacon, turkey bacon, or chicken strips)
• 6 green onions, chopped (reserve some tops for garnish)
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 10 large eggs
• 1 1/4 cups heavy cream (or you can use whole milk for a lighter option)
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 2 teaspoons Tabasco sauce (optional for those who enjoy a little heat)
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 3 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 (30 ounce) package frozen shredded hash browns, thawed

Ingredient Notes

When sourcing your ingredients, feel free to mix and match based on what you have on hand or dietary preferences. For the sausage, you can easily opt for a non-pork variant that fits your family’s needs, and the heavy cream can be switched out for lighter alternatives without compromising on creaminess.

How to Make It

Step 1 – Preheat the Oven and Prepare Your Baking Dish

To kick things off, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is warming up, take a 9-by-13-inch baking dish and generously spray it with nonstick spray. This will ensure that your delicious casserole slides right out once it’s time to serve—no one wants a sticky situation!

Step 2 – Cook the Sausage Mixture

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add in your breakfast sausage (or whichever meat substitute you’ve chosen). Toss in the chopped red bell pepper along with the white and light green segments of the green onions. As the sausage cooks, use a wooden spoon to crumble it into smaller pieces. It should take about 6 to 8 minutes for the sausage to turn golden brown and the vegetables to become tender. Once they’re done, remove the skillet from the heat and let the mixture cool slightly while you prepare the next components.

Step 3 – Whisk the Egg Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, crack open your 10 eggs like you’re unleashing a little sunshine. Add the heavy cream, Dijon mustard, a few dashes of Tabasco (if you’re feeling adventurous), salt, and black pepper. Grab a whisk and blend everything together until it’s smooth and just begging to be poured into your casserole dish. This mixture is what will hold everything together, bringing a creamy dreamy texture to each bite.

Tips for Success

• Make it your own: Add in your favorite veggies or cheeses to the mix—spinach, mushrooms, or even crumbled feta can take this dish to new heights!
• Make it ahead: This casserole can be assembled the night before; just pop it in the fridge and bake it in the morning. Perfect for those busy mornings!
• Check for doneness: Baking times may vary based on your oven; just ensure the center is set and slightly jiggly when you take it out.

Recipe Variations

1. Mediterranean Casserole: Add chopped spinach, kalamata olives, and feta cheese for a Mediterranean twist.
2. Tex-Mex Casserole: Switch in chorizo for the sausage and add some diced tomatoes and jalapeños. Top with avocado and cilantro before serving.
3. Garden Veggie Casserole: Mix in zucchini, bell pepper, and fresh herbs of your choice for a garden-fresh flavor.
4. Sweet Potato Delight: Replace hash browns with shredded sweet potatoes for a delicious sweet and savory combination.
5. Cheesy Broccoli Casserole: Stir in steamed broccoli to boost the nutritional value and add some vibrant color.

Serving Ideas

This Cozy Breakfast Casserole is perfect on its own, but I love to serve it with a side of fresh fruit or a vibrant green salad to brighten the plate. Pour a little hot sauce on top for those who like extra kick, or drape it with a dollop of sour cream. You can also pair it with freshly baked biscuits or crusty bread to soak up all that deliciousness.

Storage and Freezing

If you have leftovers (which can be rare with this dish), don’t fret! The casserole will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just cover it tightly with foil or transfer it to an airtight container. You can also freeze it before baking. Just assemble everything in your baking dish, freeze it before cooking, and then you can bake it straight from the freezer when you’re ready, adding an additional 15–20 minutes to the cooking time. It’s a lifesaver for those busy mornings when you want something homemade but don’t have time to cook.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

| Nutrients | Amount | |————–|————-| | Calories | 350 | | Protein | 20g | | Carbs | 15g | | Fat | 25g | | Fiber | 1g | | Sodium | 600mg |

FAQ About Cozy Breakfast Casserole

Can I use fresh hash browns instead of frozen?

Absolutely! If you have freshly grated potatoes, you can use those instead. Just be sure to squeeze out excess moisture before mixing in.

How can I make this casserole vegetarian?

Omit the meat, and add in your favorite sautéed veggies. Plant-based sausage options can also provide that savory flavor without the meat.

Can I use egg substitutes?

Yes! If you prefer to avoid eggs, you can try using a commercial egg substitute or a flaxseed meal mixed with water as a binder.

How do I know when my casserole is done baking?

The casserole should be puffed up and look set in the center. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean, and the edges should be golden.

Is this casserole good for meal prep?

Definitely! You can prepare it ahead of time, refrigerate it overnight, and bake it fresh in the morning. This allows flavors to marry beautifully, making it even more delicious.

In a Few Words

Cooking is about creating moments to cherish, and this Cozy Breakfast Casserole has a special place in my heart. It’s a dish that has seen us through lazy weekends, laughter-filled brunches, and even those rushed weekday mornings when we need comfort in a hurry. With each bite, you’re not just enjoying food; you’re sharing love, warmth, and delightful memories.

Conclusion

In a world where we often rush from one place to another, meals like this remind us to slow down and enjoy the little things. Whether you’re gathering with family or indulging in a quiet morning moment, this Cozy Breakfast Casserole is the perfect recipe to bring a feeling of togetherness to your kitchen. So preheat that oven, embrace the comforting aromas wafting through your home, and let this casserole be a delicious backdrop to your family’s stories and laughter. Enjoy every scrumptious bite!

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