Baked Breakfast Potato Casserole
Highlighted under: Comfort Cooking Made Easy
I absolutely love starting my day with a hearty breakfast, and this Baked Breakfast Potato Casserole truly elevates my morning routine. With its layers of golden potatoes, savory sausage, and a creamy egg mixture, it’s a satisfying dish that the whole family enjoys. I often prepare it the night before, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully, which makes the morning hassle-free. It's a perfect way to fuel up for the day ahead, and I can’t wait to share it with you!
When I first experimented with this recipe, I wanted something that felt like a hug in the morning. After a couple of tries, I found the perfect balance of textures and flavors. The crispy edges of the potatoes contrasted wonderfully with the creamy layer of eggs and cheese, making every bite a treat. A hint of spices gives it a warm kick that I absolutely adore.
I also discovered that letting the casserole sit for a few minutes after baking is key; it sets up beautifully, making it easier to slice. Plus, it tastes even better the next day! Perfect for brunch gatherings or meal prep!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Layers of savory flavors that will awaken your taste buds
- Creamy texture with crispy edges for the perfect bite
- Easily customizable to include your favorite breakfast ingredients
The Role of Each Ingredient
Understanding the role of each ingredient enhances your casserole-making skills. Potatoes are the star of the dish, providing a hearty base that absorbs flavors while maintaining a satisfying texture. The starchiness of the potatoes pairs beautifully with the creamy egg mixture, creating a balanced bite. Fresh, medium-sized potatoes work best, as they hold their shape without becoming mushy during baking.
Breakfast sausage adds an incredible depth of flavor; its fat content infuses the dish with richness. If you prefer a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken sausage can be a healthier substitute. Just ensure they’re well-seasoned, as milder meats may not offer the same robust taste. This allows the sausage to shine alongside the creamy egg mixture.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
Making this casserole the night before is a great way to save time in the morning. Once assembled, cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate overnight. Let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking. This not only enhances the flavors but also gives you a beautiful golden top once baked.
If you're looking to freeze portions for later, allow the casserole to cool completely. Cut it into individual servings, wrap them tightly in plastic, and then place them in freezer-safe containers. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
Ingredients
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 pound breakfast sausage
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
Instructions
Prepare the Potatoes
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large pot of salted water, boil the diced potatoes until just tender, about 10-12 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Cook the Sausage
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess grease and set aside.
Mix the Egg Mixture
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, black pepper, paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder until well combined.
Assemble the Casserole
In a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, layer the cooked potatoes and sausage evenly. Pour the egg mixture over the top and sprinkle with cheddar cheese.
Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is set and golden on top. Let sit for a few minutes before serving.
Pro Tips
- For extra flavor, try adding chopped bell peppers or onions to the sausage. If you prefer a spicier dish, opt for spicy sausage or add crushed red pepper flakes.
Serving Suggestions
This Baked Breakfast Potato Casserole can stand alone, but serving it with a side of fresh fruits or a light green salad can elevate the meal. A drizzle of hot sauce or a dollop of sour cream adds a delightful contrast to the creaminess of the eggs and cheese, enhancing every bite. I often prepare a simple fruit salad with seasonal berries or citrus to accompany this dish.
For a festive touch, consider garnishing individual servings with chopped chives or parsley. This not only adds a pop of color but also introduces a fresh herbaceous note that complements the savory flavors beautifully. Pairing this with freshly brewed coffee or a refreshing juice rounds out your breakfast experience.
Variations to Try
Feel free to customize this casserole to suit your taste! You can easily incorporate vegetables such as bell peppers or spinach to add nutritional value and flavor. Simply sauté the vegetables in the skillet with the sausage for a few minutes before layering them with the potatoes, ensuring they are tender yet vibrant.
For a different flavor profile, experiment with various types of cheese. Swap out cheddar for feta for a Mediterranean twist or use pepper jack cheese for an added kick. Remember, the cheese you choose will influence the overall flavor, so select one that harmonizes with the other ingredients and your personal preference.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I prepare this casserole the night before?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole, cover it, and refrigerate overnight. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time in the morning.
→ Can I use frozen potatoes?
Yes, frozen potatoes can work well. Just be sure to thaw and drain them before adding to the casserole.
→ Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, substitute the sausage with a plant-based sausage or sautéed vegetables for a delicious vegetarian version.
→ How can I store leftovers?
Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.
Baked Breakfast Potato Casserole
I absolutely love starting my day with a hearty breakfast, and this Baked Breakfast Potato Casserole truly elevates my morning routine. With its layers of golden potatoes, savory sausage, and a creamy egg mixture, it’s a satisfying dish that the whole family enjoys. I often prepare it the night before, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully, which makes the morning hassle-free. It's a perfect way to fuel up for the day ahead, and I can’t wait to share it with you!
Created by: Tessa Wright
Recipe Type: Comfort Cooking Made Easy
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 6 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 pound breakfast sausage
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large pot of salted water, boil the diced potatoes until just tender, about 10-12 minutes. Drain and set aside.
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess grease and set aside.
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, black pepper, paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder until well combined.
In a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, layer the cooked potatoes and sausage evenly. Pour the egg mixture over the top and sprinkle with cheddar cheese.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is set and golden on top. Let sit for a few minutes before serving.
Extra Tips
- For extra flavor, try adding chopped bell peppers or onions to the sausage. If you prefer a spicier dish, opt for spicy sausage or add crushed red pepper flakes.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 180mg
- Sodium: 750mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 14g