Start your day with a burst of flavor and simplicity with our Easy Breakfast Casserole—a delightful medley of eggs, savory ingredients, and gooey cheese baked to perfection. This no-fuss recipe is designed to make mornings a breeze, whether you’re feeding a hungry family or preparing a cozy brunch for friends. Join us on a culinary journey as we explore the ingredients, guide you through the step-by-step instructions, share cook notes and variations, and provide keto and low-carb versions. Get ready to elevate your breakfast game with the irresistible appeal of Easy Breakfast Casserole!
Ingredients
Base Ingredients:
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
Additional Ingredients:
- 1 pound breakfast sausage, cooked and crumbled
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup diced bell peppers (any color)
- 1 cup diced onions
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1 cup spinach leaves, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
Optional Toppings:
- Chopped fresh herbs (parsley, chives, or cilantro)
- Hot sauce or salsa
Instructions
Preparing the Casserole:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Whisk the Egg Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Layer the Ingredients: Spread the cooked and crumbled breakfast sausage evenly in the bottom of the baking dish. Layer with shredded cheddar cheese, bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, spinach, and cherry tomatoes.
- Pour the Egg Mixture: Pour the whisked egg mixture over the layered ingredients, ensuring it evenly covers the casserole.
Baking to Perfection:
- Bake Until Set: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes or until the center is set, and the edges are golden brown.
- Check for Doneness: Insert a knife or toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, the casserole is ready.
- Let It Rest: Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes before slicing.
Cook Notes
- Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare the casserole the night before, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. Pop it in the oven the next morning for a hassle-free breakfast.
- Customize with Your Favorites: Tailor the casserole to your taste by adding your favorite ingredients, such as diced ham, crumbled bacon, or different types of cheese.
- Adjust Veggie Freshness: For a crispier texture, sauté the veggies briefly before adding them to the casserole. If you prefer a softer texture, add them raw.
Variations
1. Mexican Fiesta:
Add a Tex-Mex twist by incorporating ingredients like diced jalapeños, black beans, and a sprinkle of taco seasoning. Top with avocado and salsa for a fiesta in every bite.
2. Mediterranean Delight:
Elevate the flavors with ingredients like feta cheese, Kalamata olives, and a pinch of oregano. Serve with a dollop of tzatziki for a Mediterranean-inspired breakfast.
3. Garden Veggie:
Load up on vegetables like zucchini, broccoli, and asparagus for a fresh and wholesome casserole. Experiment with different herbs like basil and thyme.
Keto Versions
For those on a keto journey, consider these modifications:
- Replace Milk with Heavy Cream: Substitute milk with heavy cream for a higher fat content and lower carb count.
- Use Low-Carb Veggies: Opt for low-carb vegetables like bell peppers, onions (in moderation), spinach, and mushrooms. Avoid higher-carb options like tomatoes.
- Experiment with Keto-Friendly Cheese: Explore keto-friendly cheese options such as mozzarella, cheddar, or cream cheese for added richness.
Low-Carb Version
To cater to low-carb preferences, make these adjustments:
- Replace Milk with Unsweetened Almond Milk: Choose unsweetened almond milk instead of regular milk to reduce the carb content.
- Limit High-Carb Veggies: Select low-carb vegetables like bell peppers, onions (in moderation), and spinach. Minimize or omit higher-carb vegetables.
- Incorporate Low-Carb Proteins: Include proteins like turkey sausage or chicken sausage with lower carb content.
Easy Breakfast Casserole is a versatile and fuss-free way to kickstart your day with a satisfying and flavorful meal. Whether you follow the classic recipe, experiment with enticing variations, or tailor it to keto and low-carb preferences, this casserole is a breakfast delight. So, preheat your oven, gather your favorite ingredients, and revel in the joy of creating a breakfast masterpiece that suits your taste and lifestyle. Here’s to mornings filled with the aroma of a freshly baked Easy Breakfast Casserole—a breakfast ritual that promises to make each day a delicious journey!
