The Old Fashioned Breakfast Casserole is a classic and hearty dish ideal for gatherings, holidays, or cozy mornings. With layers of crispy hash browns, seasoned sausage, sautéed vegetables, creamy eggs, and gooey melted cheese, this casserole is a crowd-pleaser and an easy make-ahead meal for any occasion.

Ingredients:

4 cups frozen hash browns
1 pound breakfast sausage, cooked and crumbled
1 medium bell pepper, diced
1 small onion, diced
2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
8 large eggs
1 ½ cups milk
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Directions:

Prepare the Oven and Dish: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
Cook the Sausage and Vegetables: In a skillet, cook the breakfast sausage over medium heat until browned. Remove and set aside. In the same skillet, sauté the bell pepper, onion, and spinach until softened.
Layer the Casserole:
- Spread the hash browns evenly at the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Add the cooked sausage as the second layer.
- Sprinkle the sautéed vegetables over the sausage.
- Top with shredded cheese.
Prepare the Egg Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika until well combined.
Assemble and Bake: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layers in the baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes or until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown.
Cool and Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for 5–10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

Calories: 290 kcal
Protein: 15g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fat: 18g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 540mg

Enjoy this versatile, comforting, and flavorful dish that brings everyone together around the breakfast table!

The Allure of the Old Fashioned Breakfast Casserole

The Old Fashioned Breakfast Casserole embodies the warmth and comfort of home cooking. It’s more than just a dish—it’s a celebration of flavors and textures that come together in perfect harmony. Ideal for gatherings, holiday mornings, or simply cozy weekends, this casserole has a special place in many kitchens. The layers of crispy hash browns, savory sausage, vibrant vegetables, creamy eggs, and melted cheese make it a crowd favorite and a versatile addition to any breakfast or brunch menu.

A Brief History of Breakfast Casseroles

Breakfast casseroles have been a staple of American cuisine for decades. The concept of layering ingredients in a baking dish and cooking them together is not new, but its popularity surged in the mid-20th century. This was a time when convenience became key in household cooking, and casseroles offered a way to create a hearty meal with minimal effort. Over time, the breakfast casserole evolved, incorporating ingredients like hash browns, eggs, and sausage to cater to the morning crowd. Today, it remains a quintessential comfort food, bringing people together at the table.

Why This Recipe Stands Out

The Old Fashioned Breakfast Casserole shines for its simplicity, adaptability, and unbeatable taste. Unlike many other breakfast dishes, it can be prepared ahead of time, making it ideal for busy mornings or occasions when you want to spend less time in the kitchen and more time with loved ones. Its hearty nature ensures that everyone leaves the table satisfied, and its balanced combination of protein, vegetables, and carbohydrates makes it a wholesome option.

The Perfect Dish for Every Occasion

One of the greatest strengths of the Old Fashioned Breakfast Casserole is its versatility. Whether you’re hosting a holiday brunch, preparing a dish for a potluck, or looking for a simple breakfast to enjoy during the week, this casserole fits the bill. It’s particularly useful for feeding a crowd, as it can be scaled up or down depending on your needs.

For holidays like Christmas or Thanksgiving, this dish can be prepped the night before, so all you need to do is bake it in the morning. Its vibrant layers and golden-brown top make it a centerpiece-worthy addition to the table, and it pairs wonderfully with other breakfast staples like fresh fruit, toast, or muffins.

The Art of Layering

The success of this recipe lies in its thoughtful layering technique. Each layer contributes something unique:

Hash Browns: The base of the casserole, hash browns provide a crispy, golden foundation that absorbs the flavors of the sausage and eggs.
Sausage: Breakfast sausage adds a savory depth to the dish. Its seasoning complements the mildness of the eggs and cheese.
Vegetables: Bell peppers, onions, and spinach not only add a pop of color but also enhance the nutritional value of the dish. Their sautéed flavors bring a slight sweetness that balances the saltiness of the sausage.
Cheese: The layer of shredded cheddar cheese binds the ingredients together while delivering a rich, gooey texture.
Egg Mixture: The custard-like egg mixture ties all the elements together. Infused with seasonings like garlic powder and paprika, it elevates the dish’s overall flavor.

Customization Options

The Old Fashioned Breakfast Casserole is highly customizable, allowing cooks to tailor it to their tastes and dietary preferences. Here are a few ideas:

Protein Alternatives: Swap the sausage for turkey sausage, bacon, or even diced ham for a different flavor profile.
Vegetarian Option: Skip the meat altogether and load up on additional vegetables such as mushrooms, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes.
Cheese Varieties: While cheddar is a classic choice, feel free to experiment with Swiss, Monterey Jack, or even feta for a unique twist.
Gluten-Free: Ensure the hash browns are gluten-free (some pre-packaged brands may contain gluten) to accommodate dietary restrictions.

Make-Ahead Convenience

One of the biggest advantages of this casserole is that it can be prepared in advance. Assemble the layers and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, pop it into the oven, and you’ll have a hot, fresh breakfast ready with minimal effort. This feature makes it a lifesaver for holiday mornings or busy weekdays.

Nutritional Highlights

This casserole is not only delicious but also a well-balanced meal. The eggs provide protein and essential vitamins, the vegetables contribute fiber and antioxidants, and the cheese adds calcium. While it is a hearty dish, you can adjust the ingredients to suit your dietary needs, such as using lower-fat cheese or incorporating more vegetables.

Tips for Success

Uniform Layers: Spread each layer evenly to ensure every bite has a bit of everything.
Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the casserole during baking to prevent the eggs from drying out. The center should be just set for the best texture.
Rest Before Serving: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before slicing. This helps the layers set and makes serving easier.

Serving Suggestions

The Old Fashioned Breakfast Casserole is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs beautifully with sides like:

Fresh fruit salad for a refreshing contrast
Toast or bagels with cream cheese for added variety
A light salad with a tangy vinaigrette for a touch of acidity

Conclusion

The Old Fashioned Breakfast Casserole is more than just a dish—it’s a tradition in the making. With its hearty ingredients, simple preparation, and adaptability, it’s a recipe that will likely become a staple in your kitchen. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy morning at home, this casserole is sure to delight your family and guests alike. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or put your own spin on it, one thing is certain: this dish will always bring comfort and joy to your breakfast table.

By including this recipe in your repertoire, you’re not just preparing a meal; you’re creating memories that will last a lifetime.

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Old Fashioned Breakfast Casserole