This hearty Amish Breakfast Casserole combines eggs, sausage, and cheese, all baked together in a cozy dish. It’s perfect for lazy mornings or family gatherings!
The best part? You can prepare it the night before! Just pop it in the oven in the morning, and you’ll have a warm breakfast that everyone will love. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Breakfast Sausage: This ingredient adds a lot of flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider turkey sausage. For a vegetarian twist, use crumbled tofu or plant-based sausage.
Eggs: The foundation of this dish, but you can use egg substitutes for a lighter version. Silken tofu blended can be a great vegan alternative.
Hash Brown Potatoes: Frozen hash browns are convenient, but you could use freshly grated potatoes. Just be sure to squeeze out extra moisture to avoid a soggy casserole.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives this casserole a wonderful tang. Feel free to mix it up with Monterey Jack or gouda for a different flavor. Vegan cheese is also an alternative!
Green Onions: Green onions add fresh flavor. If you don’t have them, chives would work too! For a mild onion flavor, use onion powder instead.
How Can I Ensure My Casserole is Perfectly Cooked?
Getting that perfect bake is key for your Amish Breakfast Casserole. Here are some tips:
- Always preheat your oven. It ensures even cooking from the get-go.
- Cook the sausage well before adding it to the mixture; nobody likes undercooked meat!
- Check the casserole around 45 minutes; the eggs should be set. A gentle shake will help you tell if it’s done.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before cutting. This helps it hold its shape better.
These steps will help you create a tasty and satisfying breakfast that everyone will enjoy!
Amish Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound breakfast sausage
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 package (30 oz) frozen shredded hash brown potatoes, thawed
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions, plus extra for garnish
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Cooking spray or butter (for greasing the dish)
- Optional: cooked and crumbled bacon for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole takes about 20 minutes to prepare and takes around 45 to 55 minutes to bake. In total, you’re looking at about 1 hour and 15 minutes from start to serving. Perfect for leisurely mornings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prep:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming up, take a moment to lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter. This will help prevent sticking and make cleanup easy!
2. Cook the Sausage:
Next, grab a large skillet and place it over medium heat. Cook the breakfast sausage until it’s browned and thoroughly cooked, crumbling it into small pieces as it cooks. Once done, take it off the heat and set it aside.
3. Mix the Egg Base:
In a large mixing bowl, combine your eggs and milk. Whisk them together, adding salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix it well until everything’s fully combined.
4. Combine Ingredients:
Now it’s time for the fun part! Add the thawed hash browns, cooked sausage, 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped green onions into the egg mixture. Stir it gently so all the ingredients are beautifully combined.
5. Pour & Sprinkle:
Pour the mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish. Then, sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese generously over the top. Yummy!
6. Bake to Perfection:
Slide the dish into your preheated oven and let it bake for about 45 to 55 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the eggs are set, and the top is golden brown. Trust your nose—it should smell amazing!
7. Cool & Serve:
Once it’s done baking, take it out of the oven and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes to cool slightly. This will help the casserole firm up a bit, making it easier to cut. Before serving, you can garnish with some extra chopped green onions and crumbled bacon if you like.
8. Enjoy:
Finally, cut the casserole into squares and serve warm. This comforting dish is sure to bring smiles and satisfaction to your breakfast table!
Enjoy this comforting and filling Amish Breakfast Casserole for a perfect start to your day!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar cheese is traditional, you can substitute it with any cheese you enjoy, such as Monterey Jack, gouda, or even a mozzarella blend. Just ensure it’s a cheese that melts well.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole the night before! Simply assemble it, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. In the morning, just pop it into the oven straight from the fridge; it may need an extra 5-10 minutes of baking time.
What Are Some Good Add-ins or Variations?
Feel free to get creative! You can add vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms to enhance the flavor and nutrition. You could also swap the breakfast sausage for bacon or even tempeh for a vegetarian option!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop it in the microwave or oven until warmed through. This casserole also freezes well—just make sure it’s fully cooled before freezing!