Looking for a quick, tasty breakfast option? This Easy Sausage and Egg Casserole is perfect for busy mornings. Packed with protein and veggies, it’s a one-dish delight that will please everyone at your table. With simple steps and easy prep, you’ll have a hearty meal ready in no time. Let me guide you through the ingredients and steps to create this delicious casserole!
Ingredients
To make your Easy Sausage and Egg Casserole, gather these simple ingredients:
– 1 pound breakfast sausage, casings removed
– 6 large eggs
– 1 cup milk
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 medium onion, finely diced
– 1 bell pepper (any color), finely diced
– 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 4 slices whole wheat bread, cubed
These ingredients create a hearty dish that’s perfect for breakfast or brunch. The breakfast sausage brings great flavor, while the eggs and cheese add creaminess. Fresh veggies like onion and bell pepper give a nice crunch. Spinach adds color and nutrients. The spices, garlic powder and paprika, enhance the taste and make it truly special.
You can customize this dish with your favorite ingredients. For example, you can swap the sausage for turkey or a meat-free option. This recipe is flexible, so feel free to experiment! For the full recipe, see below.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step warms up your oven for baking. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with non-stick spray or olive oil.
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 medium onion and 1 bell pepper, both finely diced. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes until they soften and smell great.
Cook the Sausage
Next, add 1 pound of breakfast sausage to the skillet. Use a spatula to crumble it as you cook. Keep cooking for 8-10 minutes until the sausage is brown and no pink remains. If needed, drain excess grease to keep the dish from getting soggy.
Prepare the Egg Mixture
In a big bowl, whisk together 6 large eggs, 1 cup of milk, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1 teaspoon of paprika. Add a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until it is smooth and frothy.
Combine Ingredients
Fold the cooked sausage, sautéed vegetables, and 2 cups of chopped spinach into the egg mixture. Mix well. Gently stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until all is evenly coated.
Transfer to Baking Dish
Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly to help it cook well.
Bake the Casserole
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 30-35 minutes. The casserole should be set in the middle and lightly golden on top when it is ready.
Cool and Slice
Once baked, let it cool for 5-10 minutes. This helps the dish firm up, making it easy to slice into squares. Serve warm for a delicious breakfast treat. For more details, please check the Full Recipe.
Tips & Tricks
Serving Suggestions
You can serve this casserole warm or at room temperature. Pair it with fresh fruit for a sweet touch. A side of crispy hash browns also works well. You might enjoy it with a dollop of sour cream or yogurt for creaminess. Don’t forget to offer hot sauce for those who like a spicy kick!
Best Practices for Cooking
Always preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) before baking. This step ensures even cooking. When sautéing vegetables, cook them until they are soft. This adds great flavor to the dish. Drain excess grease from the sausage to keep the casserole light. Allow the bake to rest after cooking for better slicing.
Recommended Garnishes
Garnish your casserole with freshly chopped herbs like parsley or chives. They add color and freshness. For extra flavor, sprinkle a bit of paprika on top before serving. You can also add sliced avocado or cherry tomatoes for a fresh touch. Enjoy getting creative with your garnishes!
Variations
Vegetarian Option
You can make this casserole a vegetarian delight. Start by swapping the sausage for a mix of mushrooms and diced zucchini. Sauté them with your onion and bell pepper for a rich flavor. Add in some black beans or chickpeas for extra protein. You can also use a meat substitute like tempeh or lentils. This way, you still enjoy a hearty dish without the meat.
Additions for Flavor
To give your casserole more kick, try adding different spices. A dash of cayenne pepper can bring heat. You might also use fresh herbs like thyme or basil for a fragrant touch. Sautéed garlic adds depth to the flavor. You can also toss in some sun-dried tomatoes or olives for a Mediterranean twist. Each addition makes it unique and tasty.
Alternative Cheeses
Cheese lovers can play around with different types of cheese. Instead of cheddar, try pepper jack for a spicy bite. Feta cheese gives a tangy flavor that pairs well with spinach. You can also use mozzarella for a gooey texture. Mixing different cheeses can create layers of taste that make each bite exciting.
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
To store your leftover casserole, let it cool down first. Then, place it in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh for up to four days in the fridge. You can also cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. Just make sure to press out any air to avoid freezer burn.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat your sausage and egg casserole, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place individual portions in a baking dish. Cover them with foil to keep moisture in. Heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warm all the way through. You can also use a microwave. Heat on medium power for about 2-3 minutes, checking often to avoid overcooking.
Freezing Tips
You can freeze this casserole for up to three months. Cut it into squares before freezing for easy portions. Wrap each piece in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat in the oven or microwave as mentioned above. For the full recipe, check out the details above.
FAQs
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this casserole ahead of time. Prepare it the night before. Just mix all the ingredients and pour them into the baking dish. Cover it with plastic wrap and place it in the fridge. In the morning, bake it directly from the fridge. This saves time and makes breakfast easy.
What are good substitutions for the sausage?
If you want to change the sausage, try turkey sausage or chicken sausage. Both options are leaner and still tasty. For a vegetarian choice, use crumbled tofu or a meat substitute. You can also add more veggies for flavor and texture.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, swap the whole wheat bread for gluten-free bread. There are many good gluten-free options available. Just make sure to check labels for hidden gluten. This keeps your casserole safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
What is the best way to freeze sausage and egg casserole?
To freeze this casserole, let it cool completely after baking. Cut it into squares, and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap. Place them in a freezer bag or airtight container. This way, you can enjoy a quick breakfast later. Just reheat in the oven or microwave.
This casserole makes a tasty and filling meal. You learned how to layer fresh ingredients like sausage, eggs, and cheese. We also explored storage tips and tasty variations. With these steps, you can create something wonderful for breakfast or brunch. Try it out and enjoy every bite. Cooking is fun, and this dish will please everyone!
