This Cowboy Breakfast Casserole is a hearty dish packed with eggs, cheese, and tasty sausage. It’s perfect for a family breakfast or brunch with friends!
You’ll love how it all comes together, just mix, pour, and bake! And let’s be real, any meal that includes cheese and sausage is a win in my book! 🧀🥓
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Breakfast Sausage: This is the flavor hero of the dish! If you’re looking for a lighter option, turkey sausage works great. For a vegetarian version, swap in some mushrooms or plant-based sausage crumbles.
Eggs: The base of this casserole. If you’re trying to cut back on cholesterol, you can use egg whites or an egg substitute, which still gives a great texture and flavor.
Cheddar Cheese: Classic choice for that creamy, cheesy goodness! Feel free to swap half with Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a little kick. Vegan cheese can also work if you’re avoiding dairy.
Bacon: Adds a nice crunch and flavor. You can use turkey bacon for a lighter version, or leave it out entirely for a vegetarian meal.
Green Onions/Chives: These add a fresh touch! Dill or parsley can be substituted for a slightly different flavor. Use what you have on hand!
How Do I Ensure My Casserole Is Cooked Perfectly?
Getting the right bake on your casserole is key! Follow these steps to make sure it turns out fluffy and delicious:
- Preheat your oven properly to 350°F (175°C) for even cooking.
- Make sure to whisk the eggs with the milk well, so everything mixes nicely.
- Check the casserole around 30 minutes; it should puff up and look golden. If the top is browning too quickly, cover it loosely with foil.
- Insert a knife or toothpick in the center to check doneness; it should come out clean when fully set.
Letting it cool for a few minutes helps it set up nicely, making slicing easier. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
How to Make Cowboy Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Base:
- 1 pound breakfast sausage
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 slices cooked bacon, chopped
- ¼ cup chopped green onions or chives (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 cup diced potatoes (pre-cooked or hashbrowns) for added heartiness
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 30-35 minutes to bake. In total, you’re looking at around an hour from prep to table. Perfect for gathering family or friends for a hearty breakfast!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures it’s hot and ready when you’re done prepping. Lightly grease a 9×9 inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. Cook the Sausage:
In a skillet over medium heat, add the breakfast sausage. Cook it until it’s browned and cooked through, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess grease if necessary. This will add great flavor to the base!
3. Prepare the Egg Mixture:
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and black pepper until everything is well combined. This mixture will make your casserole fluffy and delicious!
4. Layer the Ingredients:
Spread the cooked sausage evenly over the bottom of your prepared baking dish. If you’re adding potatoes or hashbrowns, layer them next, spreading evenly over the sausage.
5. Add Cheese:
Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the sausage (and potatoes if you chose to add them). This cheesy goodness is what makes it so tasty!
6. Pour the Egg Mixture:
Carefully pour the egg mixture over the layered ingredients in the dish, making sure it evenly covers everything.
7. Top with Bacon and Green Onions:
Sprinkle the chopped bacon and green onions (or chives) over the top. If you have any reserved cheese, sprinkle that on as well for an extra cheesy finish!
8. Bake It:
Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown. Keep an eye on it towards the end to avoid over-baking.
9. Cool & Serve:
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This helps it set up nicely. Garnish with any extra chopped green onions or chives before serving.
10. Enjoy:
Serve warm and enjoy every cheesy, savory bite of your hearty Cowboy Breakfast Casserole! Perfect for any breakfast gathering!
Happy cooking! Enjoy sharing this delightful dish with your loved ones!
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. Just bake it in the morning when you’re ready, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
Can I Use Different Types of Meat?
Yes! Feel free to substitute the breakfast sausage with turkey sausage, chicken sausage, or even diced ham. For a vegetarian version, mushrooms, bell peppers, or beans are great options for added flavor and texture!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze individual portions for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or oven until heated through.
Can I Add Extra Vegetables?
Definitely! You can add bell peppers, spinach, or diced tomatoes for more flavor and nutrition. Just be sure to sauté any fresh vegetables beforehand to reduce excess moisture in the casserole.