This Amish Breakfast Casserole is a hearty dish packed with eggs, cheese, and sausage. It’s perfect for lazy weekends or family brunches when everyone wants a big meal!
It’s so easy to prepare, you just mix everything in one dish and let it bake while you sip your coffee. Plus, leftovers are great for quick breakfasts during the week!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Breakfast Sausage: Ground breakfast sausage brings a lot of flavor to the casserole. If you prefer a lighter option, turkey sausage works well too. For a vegetarian version, you can use mushrooms or a plant-based sausage substitute.
Eggs: Large eggs are the base of this dish. You could use egg whites or egg substitutes if you’re looking to cut down on cholesterol. Just remember to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar gives this casserole its signature flavor. While I love sharp cheddar for that extra zing, feel free to swap it with Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a bit of heat.
Bread: Day-old bread is perfect for this recipe as it soaks up the egg mixture better. If you don’t have any, fresh bread is fine; just dry it out in the oven briefly. Whole grain bread can also add a nice texture and flavor.
Green Onions and Bacon Bits: These are optional but really elevate the dish. You can skip them if you don’t have them, or switch them with chives or diced bell peppers for a fresh twist.
How Do I Ensure My Casserole is Perfectly Set?
Getting the right texture for your casserole is key. Here’s how to do it:
- Mix your ingredients gently but thoroughly. This ensures even distribution of flavors.
- When pouring the egg mixture over the bread and sausage, make sure all the bread is soaked. Stir it a bit inside the dish if necessary.
- Keep an eye on the baking time. If the top is browning too quickly, cover it with foil to avoid burning while the inside cooks through.
- After baking, let it sit for a few minutes before cutting. This will help the casserole set and make serving easier.
With these tips and ingredient suggestions, your Amish Breakfast Casserole will be a delicious hit at any gathering! Enjoy every bite!
Amish Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1 pound breakfast sausage (ground)
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 6 slices bread, cubed (day-old works best)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons butter (for greasing the pan)
For Garnishing (Optional):
- 2 green onions, chopped
- Bacon bits
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep, plus 45 to 50 minutes to bake. So, in about an hour, your delicious Amish Breakfast Casserole will be ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take a 9×13-inch baking dish and grease it with butter to prevent sticking. This is an easy step, but it makes a big difference!
2. Cook the Sausage:
In a skillet over medium heat, add your ground breakfast sausage. Cook it while breaking it up into small pieces until it’s nicely browned and cooked through. Once done, drain any excess grease—this will keep the casserole from being too oily.
3. Mix the Eggs:
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper. Keep whisking until everything is smoothly blended. This is where the magic happens, giving the casserole that fluffy texture!
4. Layer the Casserole:
Now, let’s build the casserole. Spread the cubed bread evenly in the greased baking dish. Next, sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese over the bread. Then, add the cooked sausage evenly on top of the cheese layer.
5. Add the Egg Mixture:
Pour your egg mixture over the bread, cheese, and sausage layers in the baking dish. Make sure it’s evenly distributed so every bite is just as tasty as the last.
6. Top with Remaining Cheese:
Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top. This will give it a delicious cheesy crust when baked.
7. Bake the Casserole:
Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 45–50 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the casserole is set and the top is a lovely golden brown.
8. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps it set up a little more, making it easier to cut. If you want, add some chopped green onions and bacon bits on top for a little extra flavor and crunch!
Now your comforting Amish Breakfast Casserole is ready to be enjoyed! It’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a cozy dinner. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Can I Use Reduced-Fat Milk in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use reduced-fat milk if you’re looking to lighten things up a bit! Just keep in mind that it may slightly alter the creaminess of the casserole, but it will still taste great!
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the sausage and replace it with your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms. You can also add plant-based sausage or tofu for extra protein.
Can I Prepare This Casserole the Night Before?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole the night before, cover it, and refrigerate it. Bake it the next morning, but allow for a few extra minutes in the oven to ensure it cooks through smoothly.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, just pop it in the microwave or warm it in the oven until heated thoroughly. Enjoy your quick breakfast treat!
