Breakfast Casserole

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Looking for a hearty and satisfying breakfast dish to feed a crowd or elevate your weekend brunch? Look no further than this mouthwatering Breakfast Casserole! With a golden biscuit crust, savory sausage, gooey cheese, and creamy eggs, every bite is a flavor explosion that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Plus, with just a handful of simple ingredients and minimal prep time, this recipe is a breeze to whip up. Let’s dive into how to make this irresistible breakfast delight!

Ingredients:

  • 1 (16.3-ounce) can Grands Biscuits (8 count)
  • 1 (8-ounce) package Jimmy Dean precooked sausage crumbles (or 1 cup crumbled cooked sausage)
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 8 large eggs (beaten)
  • 1 cup milk
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and grease a 9-x-13-inch baking dish.
  2. Open the can of biscuits and line the bottom of the baking dish with the biscuit dough, pressing firmly to seal and create a bottom crust.
  3. Sprinkle the precooked sausage crumbles evenly over the biscuit crust, followed by a generous layer of shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese.
  4. In a medium bowl, whisk together the beaten eggs, milk, salt, and pepper until well combined.
  5. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the sausage and cheese layers in the baking dish.
  6. Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the center of the casserole no longer jiggles.
  7. Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before cutting it into squares.
  8. Serve the Breakfast Casserole warm and enjoy the delicious flavors!

Tips for Customization:

  • Add diced bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrients.
  • Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Swiss or pepper jack, to suit your taste preferences.
  • Substitute the sausage with cooked bacon or ham for a tasty variation.

Serving and Storage Tips:

  1. Serving Suggestions: Serve this delectable Breakfast Casserole warm, straight from the oven, for the best flavor and texture. It’s perfect for weekend brunch gatherings, holiday breakfasts, or whenever you want to treat yourself to a hearty morning meal. Pair it with a side of fresh fruit salad or crispy hash browns for a complete and satisfying breakfast spread.
  2. Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare this Breakfast Casserole the night before to save time in the morning. Simply follow the recipe instructions up to the point of baking, cover the assembled casserole tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and refrigerate overnight. When you’re ready to bake, remove the casserole from the refrigerator while you preheat the oven, then bake as directed. This make-ahead option is perfect for busy mornings or when entertaining guests.
  3. Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual servings until heated through, or place the casserole in a preheated oven until warmed to your liking. Note that the texture may slightly change upon reheating, but the flavors will still be delicious.
  4. Freezing Instructions: This Breakfast Casserole can also be frozen for longer-term storage. After baking and cooling completely, cut the casserole into individual servings or larger portions, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and place them in a freezer-safe container or resealable freezer bags. Label with the date and freeze for up to 1-2 months. To reheat from frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.

Variations:

  1. Vegetarian Twist: For a meat-free option, omit the sausage and add a variety of sautéed vegetables such as spinach, bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms. You can also incorporate vegetarian sausage crumbles or tofu for added protein and flavor.
  2. Mexican-Inspired: Give your Breakfast Casserole a south-of-the-border flair by adding diced green chilies, black beans, and corn kernels to the egg mixture. Top it off with a dollop of salsa, sliced avocado, and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro for a zesty and colorful twist.
  3. Italian Delight: Infuse your casserole with Italian flavors by adding diced cooked ham or Italian sausage, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh basil to the egg mixture. Substitute the mozzarella and cheddar cheese with shredded Parmesan and Fontina for a rich and savory Italian-inspired dish.
  4. Breakfast Burrito Casserole: Roll up the ingredients into a casserole dish for a convenient and portable breakfast option. Layer flour tortillas with scrambled eggs, cooked sausage or bacon, shredded cheese, and diced green onions. Roll them up tightly and place them seam-side down in the baking dish. Pour whisked eggs and milk over the top, then bake until set for a hearty breakfast burrito casserole.
  5. Hash Brown Crust: Swap out the biscuit crust for a layer of crispy hash browns for a delicious twist on traditional breakfast casseroles. Simply spread a layer of frozen shredded hash browns in the bottom of the baking dish and bake until golden brown and crispy before adding the remaining ingredients.
  6. Greek-Inspired: Add Mediterranean flavors to your casserole by incorporating ingredients like chopped spinach, diced tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese. Season with oregano, garlic powder, and a squeeze of lemon juice for a refreshing and savory breakfast option.
  7. Tex-Mex Fiesta: Spice things up with Tex-Mex flavors by mixing cooked chorizo sausage, diced green chilies, black beans, and shredded pepper jack cheese into the egg mixture. Top with sliced jalapeños, diced tomatoes, and a drizzle of hot sauce for a fiery and flavorful breakfast casserole.

FAQs :

  1. Can I use fresh biscuits instead of canned biscuits?
    • Yes, you can use homemade or store-bought fresh biscuit dough instead of canned biscuits. Simply roll out the dough to fit the bottom of the baking dish and proceed with the recipe as directed.
  2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
    • Absolutely! This casserole can be assembled the night before and refrigerated until ready to bake. Just be sure to cover it tightly to prevent any drying out.
  3. Can I freeze leftovers of this Breakfast Casserole?
    • Yes, you can freeze leftovers for future meals. After baking and cooling, portion the casserole into individual servings, wrap tightly in plastic wrap or foil, and freeze. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
  4. Can I customize the ingredients in this recipe?
    • Certainly! Feel free to add or substitute ingredients according to your preferences. You can experiment with different types of cheese, meats, vegetables, and seasonings to create your own unique flavor combinations.
  5. What can I serve with this Breakfast Casserole?
    • This casserole pairs well with a variety of sides such as fresh fruit salad, crispy hash browns, toasted English muffins, or a simple green salad.

With its flaky biscuit crust, savory sausage, melty cheese, and creamy egg filling, this Breakfast Casserole is sure to become a favorite among your family and friends. Whether you’re hosting a brunch gathering or simply craving a comforting breakfast dish, this recipe ticks all the boxes for convenience, taste, and satisfaction. Whip up a batch this weekend and treat yourself to a delicious morning meal that will start your day off right!