Kickstart your day with the ultimate comfort food – our Hearty Sausage and Potato Breakfast Casserole. This rich and satisfying dish combines savory sausage, tender potatoes, and creamy cheese, baked to golden perfection. Perfect for a family breakfast or brunch, this casserole is sure to become a favorite morning treat..
Preparation and Cooking Times
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings and Serving Size
- Servings: 6
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 200g)
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fat: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 900mg
Ingredients
- 500g (1 lb) Italian sausage, casings removed
- 4 cups (800g) potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 cups (200g) shredded cheddar cheese
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup (240ml) milk
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh chives, chopped (for garnish)
Method of Preparation
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch (23x33 cm) baking dish.
- Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces, about 7-10 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil. Sauté the onion and bell peppers until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the diced potatoes, garlic powder, and paprika. Cook for another 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper. Add the cooked sausage, sautéed vegetables, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Stir to combine.
- Assemble the Casserole: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Top with the remaining shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, or until the casserole is set and the top is golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with freshly chopped chives and serve warm.
Tips for Culinary Success
- Potato Prep: Make sure the potatoes are diced evenly for uniform cooking.
- Cheese Choices: Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend for added flavor.
- Vegetable Variations: Add other vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini for extra nutrition.
- Make Ahead: This casserole can be assembled the night before and baked in the morning for a hassle-free breakfast.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I use frozen hash browns instead of fresh potatoes? Yes, you can use frozen hash browns to save time. Just ensure they are thawed and drained before using.
- How do I store leftovers? Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
- Can I make this casserole vegetarian? Absolutely! Substitute the sausage with a plant-based sausage or additional vegetables for a vegetarian version.
- What sides go well with this casserole? Serve with fresh fruit, a green salad, or toast for a complete meal.