This Potato O’Brien Breakfast Casserole is a hearty and tasty way to start your day! Packed with crispy potatoes, peppers, and cheese, it makes breakfast a breeze.
It’s like a warm hug in a dish! I love making this when I have friends over—everyone gets a slice, and I get all the compliments. Win-win! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: Russet potatoes work best for texture; they hold their shape and crisp up nicely. If you’re in a pinch, feel free to use frozen diced hash browns!
Bell Peppers: The mix of green and red adds a nice color and sweetness. You could also use yellow or orange bell peppers or even sub in some sautéed mushrooms if you prefer.
Bacon: I love using crispy bacon for that smoky flavor. If you want a healthier option, turkey bacon does the job well, or you can skip it completely for a vegetarian version!
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar is a classic choice, but you can mix in other cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for extra flavor. If you need a dairy-free option, try a plant-based cheese instead!
How Do You Ensure the Eggs Set Properly in the Casserole?
The secret to perfect baked eggs in this casserole is the baking time and temperature. Be patient as it bakes! Here’s how:
- Preheat the oven thoroughly to 350°F (175°C).
- Check for doneness by inserting a knife in the center; it should come out clean when the casserole is ready.
- Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes after baking. This helps everything firm up nicely!
This simple waiting period pays off; no more soggy casseroles! Enjoy your well-set delicious breakfast.
Potatoes O’Brien Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 4 cups diced potatoes (preferably Russet)
- 1 cup diced green bell pepper
- 1 cup diced red bell pepper
- 1 cup diced onion
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled (plus extra for topping)
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons butter or oil, for sautéing
For Garnish:
- Chopped green onions or chives
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole takes about 20 minutes of prep time, plus an additional 35 to 45 minutes to bake. Overall, you’ll need around 1 hour for this dish, perfect for a cozy breakfast or brunch with family and friends!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is warming up, lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Cook the Potatoes:
In a large skillet, heat the butter or oil over medium heat. Add the diced potatoes, stirring them occasionally until they start to soften and turn golden brown—this should take about 10 minutes.
3. Add the Veggies:
Once the potatoes are softened, toss in the diced green and red bell peppers along with the diced onion. Keep cooking and stirring until the veggies are tender and the potatoes are fully cooked, around 5 to 7 more minutes. Once done, remove them from heat.
4. Mix the Eggs:
In a big bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and black pepper until everything is well mixed. This will be the base for your casserole.
5. Combine Ingredients:
Next, stir in the crumbled bacon, sautéed potato and vegetable mixture, and 1 cup of the cheddar cheese into the egg mixture. Make sure everything is well combined.
6. Pour and Spread:
Pour the combined egg and potato mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly to ensure even cooking.
7. Add Extra Cheese:
Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole. You can also add a few crumbles of bacon as a garnish for extra flavor.
8. Bake to Perfection:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 45 minutes, until the eggs are set and the top has a nice golden brown color.
9. Cool and Serve:
Once your casserole is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes. This little resting time helps it hold together when you slice it.
10. Garnish and Enjoy:
Before serving, sprinkle some chopped green onions or chives on top for a fresh touch. Dish out your delicious Potatoes O’Brien Breakfast Casserole and enjoy it warm with your loved ones!
This hearty breakfast casserole is sure to please everyone at your table! Enjoy!🥔🍳
Can I Use Frozen Potatoes for This Casserole?
Absolutely! Frozen diced potatoes are a convenient option. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before cooking to remove excess moisture and ensure they crisp up nicely when baked.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole the night before. Simply assemble it, cover it with plastic wrap, and store it in the fridge. Bake it in the morning; you may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking from cold.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or oven until heated through. If it seems dry, a splash of milk can help moisten it back up!
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
Feel free to customize! You can add vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini. Just make sure to sauté them first to remove excess moisture before adding them to the casserole.