Are you craving that comforting, satisfying breakfast casserole you get at Bob Evans, but don't have the time to go out? This recipe brings that classic taste right into your kitchen! It’s a perfect make-ahead dish, ideal for busy week mornings or weekend brunches. This easy recipe is packed with flavor and requires minimal effort, making it a fantastic addition to your collection of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals. Get ready to enjoy a homemade breakfast casserole that rivals your favorite restaurant!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound breakfast sausage (mild or hot, your preference!)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup milk
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 6 cups cubed bread (day-old bread works best!)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Veggies and Sausage
Start by cooking the breakfast sausage in a large skillet over medium heat until browned. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks for even browning. Drain off any excess grease. Add the chopped onion and green bell pepper to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
Step 2: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, milk, and eggs until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. In the prepared dish, combine the cooked sausage and vegetable mixture with the bread cubes. Pour the wet ingredients evenly over the bread and sausage mixture, making sure everything is well coated.
Step 4: Add the Cheese & Bake
Sprinkle the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is golden brown and bubbly, and the eggs are fully cooked. Let it sit for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Tips for the Best Bob Evans Breakfast Casserole:
- Day-old bread: Using slightly stale bread helps prevent the casserole from becoming soggy.
- Cheese variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Pepper jack, Colby, or even a Mexican blend would be delicious!
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sausage mixture for a little extra kick.
- Make it ahead: Assemble the casserole the night before and bake it in the morning for a truly effortless breakfast. Simply cover and refrigerate overnight. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Variations:
- Veggie Delight: Add other vegetables like diced potatoes, mushrooms, or spinach.
- Meat Lover's Special: Incorporate bacon or ham along with the sausage.
- Spicy Kick: Use hot sausage and add a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary based on the specific ingredients used, but a general estimate is:
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 15-20 grams
- Fat: Approximately 20-25 grams
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 20-25 grams
Enjoy this delicious and easy Bob Evans breakfast casserole! It’s a perfect meal for any occasion, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Serve it with your favorite breakfast sides, such as fresh fruit or a side of crispy bacon for a truly special meal. This simple recipe offers a fantastic opportunity for homemade cooking, resulting in delicious dishes that the whole family will love. It’s one of the best recipes for easy and satisfying breakfasts.