This Cowboy Breakfast Casserole is a hearty dish packed with eggs, potatoes, and savory sausage. It’s great for feeding a crowd or just to enjoy throughout the week!
You can easily customize it with your favorite veggies or cheese. I always find myself sneaking seconds—who can resist a warm, cheesy breakfast? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Breakfast Sausage: You can choose either mild or spicy sausage based on your taste. If you’re opting for a healthier option, turkey sausage works well too and still offers great flavor.
Eggs: Always go for large eggs; they make the casserole fluffy and rich. If you’re looking for a lighter option, egg whites or egg substitutes like a vegan egg mix can be used.
Hash Brown Potatoes: Frozen hash browns are super convenient, but if you prefer fresh, you can use diced cooked potatoes instead. Sweet potatoes can also be a tasty swap!
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar gives a lovely richness, but feel free to mix it up with Monterey Jack or pepper jack for some spice. Vegan cheese is a great substitute for a dairy-free option.
Onions and Bell Pepper: Fresh diced veggies add flavor, but you can ditch them or substitute with any other favorite veggies like mushrooms or spinach!
How Do You Ensure Your Casserole Sets Perfectly?
Getting the casserole perfectly set is key! Follow these steps to avoid a runny mess:
- Make sure to bake it uncovered; this helps the top crisp up and the moisture to evaporate.
- Keep an eye on the time: the casserole should bake long enough for the center to be set, which usually takes 45-50 minutes.
- Let it cool a bit after baking; this will help it firm up for easier slicing.
Enjoy making this delicious Cowboy Breakfast Casserole—it’s a fantastic dish to start your day right!
How to Make Cowboy Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1 lb breakfast sausage (mild or spicy, your preference)
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 4 cups frozen hash brown potatoes (or diced cooked potatoes)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1/2 cup green bell pepper, diced (optional)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
- Cooking spray or butter for greasing the pan
Time Needed:
This Cowboy Breakfast Casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and then 45-50 minutes to bake. In total, plan for about an hour of your time. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving—it’s worth the wait!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating, grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
2. Cook the Sausage:
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage. Use a spoon to break it up as it cooks. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until it’s browned and cooked through. Once done, remove it with a slotted spoon and set aside. If there’s a lot of grease in the skillet, drain some of it off, but leave a tablespoon or so for flavor.
3. Sauté the Veggies:
In the same skillet, add the diced onion and green bell pepper (if using). Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes until they soften. This adds a delicious flavor to the casserole!
4. Whisk the Eggs:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder until well combined. This will be the base of your casserole.
5. Layer the Ingredients:
Spread the frozen hash browns evenly in the prepared baking dish. Next, layer the cooked sausage over the potatoes, followed by the sautéed onions and bell pepper.
6. Pour the Egg Mixture:
Evenly pour the egg mixture over all the ingredients in the baking dish. This will help bind everything together as it bakes.
7. Add the Cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top. It adds that irresistible, melty goodness!
8. Bake the Casserole:
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 45-50 minutes. It’s done when the center is set and the top is golden brown and bubbly.
9. Cool and Garnish:
Once baked, let the casserole cool for about 5 minutes before slicing. This helps it hold its shape. If you’d like, sprinkle it with fresh parsley or chives for a vibrant touch.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the casserole warm and enjoy it with your favorite breakfast sides or a splash of hot sauce for extra zest. It’s a hearty, flavorful meal perfect for any day!
Enjoy your delicious Cowboy Breakfast Casserole! 🍳
Can I Use Fresh Potatoes Instead of Frozen Hash Browns?
Absolutely! If you prefer using fresh potatoes, just peel and dice them, then cook them slightly before layering them in the dish to ensure they cook through during baking.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare it the night before! Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. Just add about 10 extra minutes to your baking time since it will be cold from the fridge.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or use the microwave for quicker reheating.
Can I Add Additional Veggies?
Definitely! Feel free to add other veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or even tomatoes. Just sauté them a bit first to release moisture, which helps prevent the casserole from getting soggy.
