Name: Easter Breakfast Casserole
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 12 h
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 slices of bread, preferably day-old; 1 pound of breakfast sausage; 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup of diced vegetables (bell peppers, onions, mushrooms); 6 large eggs; 2 cups of milk; 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard; 1/2 teaspoon of salt; 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper

Introduction

Welcome to our delicious Easter breakfast casserole recipe! This hearty and flavorful dish is perfect for starting off your Easter morning with a satisfying meal. Packed with tasty ingredients and easy to prepare, this casserole will be a hit with your family and friends. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or simply looking for a special breakfast treat, this recipe is sure to please. So, let’s dive in and learn how to make this mouthwatering Easter breakfast casserole!

Ingredients

For this Easter breakfast casserole, you will need the following ingredients:

– 8 slices of bread, preferably day-old

– 1 pound of breakfast sausage

– 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese

– 1 cup of diced vegetables (such as bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms)

– 6 large eggs

– 2 cups of milk

– 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard

– 1/2 teaspoon of salt

– 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper

Steps

Now, let’s walk through the steps to make this delicious Easter breakfast casserole:

Step 1: Prepare the Bread

Start by greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. Then, cut the bread into cubes and spread them evenly in the prepared dish.

Step 2: Cook the Sausage

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage until it is browned and cooked through. Make sure to break up the sausage into small crumbles as it cooks. Once cooked, drain any excess grease.

Step 3: Layer the Ingredients

Sprinkle the cooked sausage over the bread cubes in the baking dish. Next, add the diced vegetables and shredded cheddar cheese on top of the sausage.

Step 4: Prepare the Egg Mixture

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until well combined. Pour this mixture evenly over the ingredients in the baking dish.

Step 5: Refrigerate Overnight

Once the casserole is assembled, cover it with foil and refrigerate it overnight. This allows the flavors to meld together and the bread to soak up the egg mixture, resulting in a deliciously moist and flavorful casserole.

Step 6: Bake the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the foil from the baking dish and bake the casserole for 45-55 minutes, or until it is golden brown and set in the center. You can test for doneness by inserting a knife into the center of the casserole – if it comes out clean, it’s ready!

Variations

If you’re looking to switch things up or add your own personal touch to this Easter breakfast casserole, here are a few variations to consider:

Vegetarian Option

If you prefer a vegetarian version, simply omit the breakfast sausage and add more vegetables of your choice, such as spinach or zucchini.

Cheesy Bacon Twist

For a cheesy bacon twist, substitute the breakfast sausage with cooked and crumbled bacon. You can even top the casserole with additional shredded cheese and crispy bacon for an extra indulgent treat.

Spicy Kick

If you enjoy a bit of heat, add some diced jalapenos or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the casserole for a spicy kick. This variation pairs well with a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce on top.

Tips

Here are a few tips to ensure your Easter breakfast casserole turns out perfectly:

1. Use day-old bread: Using slightly stale bread helps it hold its shape and absorb the flavors of the casserole.

2. Customize the vegetables: Feel free to use your favorite vegetables or whatever you have on hand. This is a great recipe for using up leftover veggies.

3. Make it ahead: Preparing the casserole the night before allows you to simply pop it in the oven in the morning, saving you time and effort.

4. Let it rest: After baking, allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps it set and makes it easier to slice.

Conclusion

There you have it – a delicious Easter breakfast casserole recipe that is sure to impress your loved ones. With its savory flavors and easy preparation, this casserole is a perfect choice for a festive breakfast or brunch. Get creative with your choice of ingredients and variations to customize the recipe to your liking. Enjoy this delightful dish and have a wonderful Easter celebration!

FAQs

1. Can I freeze the Easter breakfast casserole?

Yes, you can freeze the casserole for future enjoyment. Once baked and cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Label it with the date and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in the oven.

2. Can I use a different type of bread?

Absolutely! While traditional white or wheat bread works well, you can experiment with different types of bread, such as French bread, sourdough, or even croissants, to add a unique twist to the casserole.

3. Can I make this casserole without eggs?

Yes, you can make a vegan version of this casserole by using plant-based alternatives for eggs and dairy milk. Substitute the eggs with a suitable egg replacer and use a non-dairy milk, such as almond or soy milk.

Easter Breakfast Casserole

Introduction

Ingredients