Weekends are for leisurely brunches, and what better way to start your day than with a warm, comforting, and utterly delicious breakfast casserole? This recipe, perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying a relaxed breakfast for two, leverages the convenience of a Pampered Chef Stoneware Baker, though any oven-safe dish will do. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this easy-to-make, healthy, and incredibly flavorful breakfast casserole! It’s the perfect addition to your collection of quick dinner ideas, transforming a simple breakfast into a truly special meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound breakfast sausage, mild or spicy (or substitute with 1 cup cooked bacon or ham, crumbled)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (10 ounce) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
- 12 large eggs
- 1 ½ cups milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Sausage and Vegetables
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pan. Add the chopped onion and green bell pepper to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the thawed and squeezed spinach and cook for another 2 minutes.
Step 2: Assembling the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your Pampered Chef Stoneware Baker (or a similar 9x13 inch baking dish). Evenly distribute the cooked sausage and vegetable mixture in the prepared baking dish.
Step 3: Creating the Egg Mixture
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and garlic powder until well combined. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the sausage and vegetable mixture in the baking dish.
Step 4: Adding the Cheese and Baking
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the casserole is set and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Let it sit for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Tips for the Best Breakfast Casserole:
- Don't overcook the sausage: Slightly undercooked sausage will continue to cook in the oven.
- Squeeze the spinach well: Excess moisture from the spinach can make the casserole watery.
- Use a variety of cheeses: Experiment with different cheeses for a unique flavor profile. Pepper jack or a Mexican blend would be delicious!
- Add some spice: A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick.
- Make it ahead: Assemble the casserole the night before and bake it in the morning for a truly stress-free brunch.
Variations:
- Vegetarian: Omit the sausage and add 1 cup of cooked quinoa or crumbled tofu for extra protein.
- Loaded Veggie: Add diced tomatoes, mushrooms, or zucchini along with the bell peppers and onions.
- Spicy: Add a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the egg mixture.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 18-20g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
This Pampered Chef Breakfast Casserole is a delicious and easy recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s a great way to use up leftover vegetables, and it’s easily customizable to fit your tastes and dietary needs. Enjoy this delightful homemade cooking creation!