Brunch Casserole
Brunch Casserole: A Perfect Start to Your Day
There’s nothing quite like the aroma of a hearty brunch casserole filling your kitchen on a lazy weekend morning. This delightful dish combines the savory flavors of spicy pork sausage, vibrant veggies, and cheesy goodness, all melded together in one satisfying bite. Whether you’re hosting a brunch party or enjoying a cozy meal with family, this casserole is sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This brunch casserole is a crowd-pleaser for several reasons:
- Flavorful and Filling: Packed with seasoned potatoes, spicy sausage, and a blend of cheeses, it’s both delicious and satisfying.
- Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare it the night before and simply bake it in the morning, making it perfect for stress-free entertaining.
- Versatile: Ideal for brunch, but also works for a cozy dinner.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- 3-quart casserole dish
- Cooking spray
- 4-quart bowl
- 12-inch skillet
- Medium bowl
Ingredients
- 2 boxes Betty Crocker™ Seasoned Skillets® hash brown potatoes
- 1 1/2 lb bulk spicy pork sausage
- 2 medium red bell peppers, chopped (2 cups)
- 8 medium green onions, chopped (1/2 cup)
- 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese (4 oz)
- 1 cup shredded pepper Jack cheese (4 oz)
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 6 eggs
- Chopped fresh cilantro, if desired
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Spray a 3-quart casserole dish with cooking spray. In a 4-quart bowl, cover the hash brown potatoes with 10 cups of boiling water. Let them stand for 3 minutes, then drain well and return the potatoes to the bowl.
- In a 12-inch skillet, cook the sausage over medium heat for 5 minutes. Add the chopped bell peppers and continue cooking for 4 more minutes, stirring frequently, until the sausage is no longer pink and the peppers are tender. Drain the mixture and add it to the potatoes. Stir in the chopped green onions and 1/2 cup of each cheese. Spread this mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- In a medium bowl, beat together the milk, salt, pepper, and eggs until well blended. Pour this over the sausage-potato mixture, then sprinkle with the remaining 1/2 cup of each cheese. Cover the dish and refrigerate for 8 hours or overnight.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F. Uncover the baking dish and bake for about 50 minutes, or until the casserole is light golden brown and the cheese is melted. Let it stand for 10 minutes before serving, then sprinkle with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Tips for Success
- Ensure the hash browns are well-drained to avoid a watery casserole.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of your favorite spices to the egg mixture.
Additional Tips or Variations
Feel free to customize this casserole with your choice of vegetables, such as spinach or mushrooms, or try swapping the sausage for bacon or ham for a different flavor profile.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
This casserole is packed with protein and essential nutrients, making it a great choice for a balanced meal. Exact nutritional values will vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I freeze this casserole?
A: Yes, you can freeze it after baking. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap tightly with plastic wrap and foil. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite cheese varieties for different flavor combinations.
Conclusion
This brunch casserole is a simple yet delicious way to enjoy a hearty meal with friends and family. Give it a try and let us know how it turns out! We’d love to hear your thoughts and any creative variations you come up with. Enjoy!
