This Cheesy Amish Breakfast Casserole is a warm, comforting dish filled with eggs, cheese, and hearty ingredients. Perfect for breakfast gatherings!
I love how all those yummy flavors come together, and it’s so easy to make! Just mix, pour, and bake. Who doesn’t want a big cheesy slice to start the day? 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Breakfast Sausage: I like using pork sausage for its rich flavor, but turkey or chicken sausage are also great options. If you want a meatless version, try using a plant-based sausage instead!
Eggs: Fresh large eggs work best here, but you can substitute with egg whites or a vegan egg replacer if you’re looking to reduce cholesterol or follow a plant-based diet.
Hash Browns: Frozen hash browns save time. If you don’t have them, you could use diced fresh potatoes, just make sure to par-cook them a bit first or they won’t soften enough during baking.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds great flavor. For a twist, try pepper jack for some spice, or switch to mozzarella for a milder taste. Vegan cheese can substitute too, though it may melt differently.
Bacon: Crumbled bacon adds crunch, but feel free to leave it out for a meatless dish or use turkey bacon for a lighter option. You could also add sautéed mushrooms for some extra texture.
How Do You Ensure an Evenly Cooked Casserole?
Getting your casserole to cook evenly is key! Here’s how to do it:
- Make sure to thaw your hash browns completely to prevent excess moisture.
- Mix all ingredients thoroughly in the bowl; uneven mixing can lead to some areas being dry and others too wet.
- Pour the mixture into a greased dish. Spreading it out evenly helps it bake uniformly.
- Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick or knife in the center; it should come out clean.
Letting the casserole cool for at least 5 minutes before serving allows it to set up better for cleaner slices!
Cheesy Amish Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb breakfast sausage
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 4 cups frozen hash browns (thawed)
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and then 45-55 minutes to bake. Just a little time for a big, warm, and cheesy breakfast that everyone will love!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your casserole cooks evenly. While that’s warming up, grab your baking dish and grease it to prevent sticking.
2. Cook the Sausage:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the breakfast sausage. Cook it until it’s browned and fully cooked through, using a spatula to break it into crumbles. Once it’s done, drain any excess grease and set the sausage aside. Yum!
3. Mix the Eggs and Milk:
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until they’re nicely combined. Then, stir in the salt and black pepper. This mixture is your base for the casserole.
4. Combine the Ingredients:
Now, add the thawed hash browns, cooked sausage, diced onion, and 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese to your egg mixture. Mix everything together really well so that the ingredients are evenly distributed. It should smell great already!
5. Assemble the Casserole:
Pour your well-mixed ingredients into the greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly. This helps the casserole cook uniformly. Then, sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese on top, followed by a sprinkle of crumbled bacon.
6. Bake It Up:
Place the casserole in your preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes. You know it’s done when the center is set, and the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. The aroma will fill your kitchen!
7. Cool and Garnish:
Once it’s out of the oven, let your casserole cool for a few minutes before slicing. This helps it set a little more. Before serving, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley on top for color and a little freshness.
Enjoy your warm, cheesy, and hearty Amish breakfast casserole! Perfect for family gatherings or just a cozy weekend breakfast.
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar is delicious, you can experiment with other cheeses. Try Monterey Jack for a milder flavor, or pepper jack for a spicy kick. Just make sure the cheese you choose melts well!
Can I Make This Casserole Vegetarian?
Yes, you can! Simply omit the sausage and bacon. You can replace them with sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for added flavor and nutrition.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, just warm it in the microwave or bake it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Can I Prepare This Casserole in Advance?
Yes, you can! Prepare the casserole the night before and refrigerate it before baking. Just ensure you allow extra baking time since it will be cold from the fridge. Cover it with foil to prevent over-browning.