Savory Crack Breakfast Casserole
Looking for a breakfast that’s packed with flavor, easy to make, and perfect for feeding a crowd? Look no further than this Savory Crack Breakfast Casserole! This dish is a crowd-pleaser, combining hearty ground sausage, sautéed vegetables, fluffy eggs, and melted cheddar cheese for a satisfying meal that’s sure to become a family favorite. With a touch of spice and savory seasonings, this casserole is perfect for weekend brunch, holiday mornings, or any time you want a breakfast that’s both delicious and filling. Plus, it’s a make-ahead dish that can easily be reheated for those busy mornings.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound of ground sausage
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
- 6 eggs
- 1 cup of milk
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon of paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with non-stick spray or a little butter.
- In a large skillet, cook the ground sausage over medium heat until browned. Break it up into small pieces as it cooks. Once browned, add the diced onion and bell peppers. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables are softened and the sausage is cooked through.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper until well combined.
- Spread the cooked sausage and vegetable mixture evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Pour the egg mixture over the sausage mixture, making sure everything is evenly covered.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Reheating and Storage Tips:
- Storage: Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: To reheat, simply place individual servings in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or heat the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, until warmed through.
- Freezing: You can freeze the casserole after it has cooled completely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
- Can I use turkey sausage instead of ground pork sausage?
- Yes! Turkey sausage is a great leaner alternative.
- Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
- Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole the night before and bake it in the morning.
- Can I freeze this casserole before baking?
- Yes! Assemble the casserole and freeze it unbaked. Bake it directly from frozen, adding about 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
- What type of milk should I use for the egg mixture?
- You can use whole milk, skim milk, or even a dairy-free milk like almond milk for a lighter option.
- Can I use different vegetables?
- Yes! Feel free to add or swap vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini.
- Is this casserole spicy?
- The cayenne pepper adds a mild kick, but you can adjust the amount or omit it for a milder version.
- Can I use a different type of cheese?
- Yes! You can use any cheese you prefer, such as Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or pepper jack for a bit of spice.
- Can I make this dish without the sausage?
- Yes, you can substitute the sausage with bacon, ham, or simply use extra vegetables for a vegetarian version.
- How can I make the casserole fluffier?
- Make sure to beat the eggs well and ensure the milk-to-egg ratio is correct for a fluffy texture.
- Can I use pre-cooked sausage?
- Yes, you can use pre-cooked sausage or even breakfast sausage links for a quicker version.
- Can I double the recipe for a larger group?
- Absolutely! Just increase the ingredients and use a larger baking dish or bake in two dishes.
- How do I prevent the casserole from being too greasy?
- Drain the cooked sausage well to remove any excess fat before adding it to the casserole.
- Can I use egg substitutes?
- Yes, you can use egg substitutes like aquafaba or a commercial egg replacer if needed.
- How do I know when the casserole is done?
- The casserole is done when the eggs are fully set, and the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Can I make a smaller portion?
- Yes, simply halve the ingredients and use an 8×8 inch baking dish.
- Can I add more cheese?
- Of course! Feel free to add extra cheese for a cheesier casserole.
- Can I add hot sauce for extra flavor?
- Yes! A few dashes of hot sauce can enhance the flavor if you like a bit of heat.
- Can I make this casserole dairy-free?
- Yes, use dairy-free cheese and non-dairy milk for a dairy-free version.
- Can I use frozen bell peppers?
- Yes, frozen bell peppers can be used in place of fresh peppers for convenience.
- Can I use other spices in this casserole?
- Yes, you can experiment with different seasonings like thyme, oregano, or cumin for a unique twist.
Top 20 Tips for the Best Savory Crack Breakfast Casserole:
- Use high-quality sausage for the best flavor.
- Pre-cook and drain the sausage to reduce excess grease.
- Whisk the eggs thoroughly to make the casserole light and fluffy.
- Grease the baking dish well to prevent sticking.
- If you prefer a less spicy casserole, omit the cayenne pepper or reduce it.
- Add extra veggies like mushrooms, spinach, or broccoli for a more nutritious dish.
- For a smoky flavor, use smoked sausage or add a little liquid smoke to the egg mixture.
- Let the casserole cool slightly before slicing to ensure neat portions.
- Bake at 350°F for even cooking and a perfect golden-brown top.
- Add a handful of fresh herbs like parsley or chives for added flavor and freshness.
- For extra cheese, layer some cheese in the middle of the casserole before baking.
- If you’re using pre-cooked sausage, be sure to heat it through before adding it to the casserole.
- Make sure to spread the sausage and vegetable mixture evenly in the dish for even baking.
- Try adding crumbled bacon for an additional savory element.
- Use a milk with a higher fat content for a richer casserole.
- If you like your casserole crispy, broil it for 2-3 minutes at the end of baking.
- If using frozen vegetables, make sure to thaw and drain them before adding to avoid excess moisture.
- Use a non-stick baking dish for easier cleanup.
- Let the casserole sit for a few minutes after baking to set the eggs and make slicing easier.
- Add a side of fresh fruit or a simple green salad to balance out the rich flavors of the casserole.
