11 Easy Breakfast Casserole Ideas Anyone Can Make

There’s nothing like starting the day with a comforting breakfast casserole that’s both easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying. Picture the morning aroma of a classic egg and cheese bake or a savory ham and Swiss quiche. These delightful dishes can be customized with your favorite ingredients, making them perfect for any taste and occasion. Ready to transform your mornings with these simple and delicious recipes? Let’s explore each amazing option together!

Traditional Breakfast Casseroles

Breakfast casseroles are a staple in many households for their versatility and ease of preparation. A traditional breakfast casserole typically combines eggs, cheese, bread, and breakfast meats like sausage or bacon, creating a hearty dish that can be prepared ahead of time. This makes it perfect for busy mornings or when you have guests over for brunch.

The beauty of this casserole is that it can be customized to suit personal preferences, allowing for the inclusion of vegetables, different types of cheese, or alternative meats.

In this classic version, we’ll stick to the basics with sausages, cheddar cheese, and a hint of onions and bell peppers for added flavor. This recipe is designed to serve 4-6 people, making it ideal for a family breakfast or a small gathering. It’s a one-dish meal that provides the necessary nutrients to kickstart your day with a balanced mix of protein, carbs, and fats.

Plus, the leftovers, if any, can be easily reheated for a quick breakfast the next day.

Ingredients (for 4-6 servings):

• 8 large eggs
• 2 cups milk
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 pound breakfast sausage
• 6 slices of bread, cubed
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon butter

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This guarantees that your casserole bakes evenly and thoroughly.
2. Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the breakfast sausage. Cook until browned and no longer pink, breaking it into small pieces with a spatula. Once cooked, drain any excess grease and set the sausage aside.
3. Prepare the Vegetables: In the same skillet, melt the butter and add the chopped onion and bell pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes until they’re softened and the onions are translucent.
4. Mix the Egg Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper until well combined. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese.
5. Assemble the Casserole: In a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spread the cubed bread evenly. Layer the cooked sausage over the bread, followed by the sautéed onions and peppers. Pour the egg mixture over the top, ensuring the bread is fully soaked.
6. Bake the Casserole: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 40-45 minutes, or until the casserole is set and the top is golden brown. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean.
7. Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy it hot for the best flavor.

Extra Tips:

For a more flavorful casserole, consider adding a teaspoon of mustard powder or a dash of hot sauce to the egg mixture. If you prefer a spicier dish, you can use spicy sausage or add some chopped jalapeños.

To make this dish ahead of time, prepare the casserole as instructed but cover and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, simply bake it, adding an extra 10 minutes to the baking time to account for the chilled ingredients.

Finally, feel free to experiment with different cheeses or add in some spinach for an extra nutritional boost.

Classic Egg and Cheese Recipe

The Classic Egg and Cheese Breakfast Casserole is a delicious and satisfying dish that’s perfect for starting your day on a hearty note. With a combination of fluffy eggs, savory cheese, and a variety of vegetables, this casserole brings together simple ingredients to create a delightful breakfast option. Its simplicity makes it a versatile dish that can be easily customized to include your favorite add-ins such as bacon, sausage, or even diced vegetables, ensuring it pleases every palate.

Ideal for serving 4-6 people, this breakfast casserole is great for family gatherings, brunches, or meal prep for the week. The preparation involves just a few steps and the result is a warm, comforting dish that’s sure to be a hit. Whether you’re serving it fresh out of the oven or reheating it for a quick breakfast, this Classic Egg and Cheese Breakfast Casserole will never disappoint.

Ingredients:

• 8 large eggs
• 1 cup of milk
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup diced bell peppers (any color)
• 1/2 cup diced onions
• 1 cup cooked and crumbled breakfast sausage or bacon (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups cubed bread (day-old bread works best)
• Cooking spray or butter for greasing

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish by greasing it with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Egg Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and black pepper until well combined. This mixture forms the base of the casserole, giving it a creamy and rich texture.
3. Assemble the Casserole: Spread the cubed bread evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the diced bell peppers, onions, and optional cooked sausage or bacon evenly over the bread cubes. Pour the egg mixture over the top, ensuring all bread pieces are soaked.
4. Add the Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly across the top of the egg mixture. This will melt during baking and form a deliciously cheesy crust.
5. Bake the Casserole: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown. To check if it’s done, insert a knife into the center; if it comes out clean, the casserole is ready.
6. Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. This will make it easier to cut and serve. Enjoy it warm with your choice of sides or on its own.

Extra Tips:

For the best results, use bread that’s slightly stale or day-old, as it absorbs the egg mixture better and provides a nice texture once baked. If you’re using fresh bread, you can lightly toast it before adding it to the casserole.

Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or pepper jack, for a unique flavor twist. Additionally, this casserole can be prepared the night before and stored in the refrigerator, making it an excellent option for busy mornings. Just assemble it, cover tightly, and bake when ready to serve.

Hearty Sausage and Potato Bake

Hearty Sausage and Potato Bake is the perfect dish for a cozy family breakfast or weekend brunch. This casserole combines the savory flavors of seasoned sausage, tender potatoes, and melted cheese to create a satisfying meal. It’s easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time, making it an ideal choice for those busy mornings when you want to enjoy a hearty breakfast without spending too much time in the kitchen.

The combination of ingredients in this Hearty Sausage and Potato Bake guarantees a balanced meal that will keep everyone full and satisfied. The sausage adds a rich, meaty flavor, while the potatoes provide a comforting, starchy base. The addition of eggs and cheese brings everything together, creating a creamy texture that complements the crispy edges of the baked potatoes. This casserole is sure to become a family favorite that you’ll want to make again and again.

Ingredients (serves 4-6):

• 1 pound of breakfast sausage
• 4 cups of diced potatoes
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese
• 8 large eggs
• 1 cup of milk
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• ½ teaspoon of black pepper
• ½ teaspoon of garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon of paprika
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• Cooking spray

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Cook the Sausage: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage until it’s browned and cooked through. Break it up into small pieces as it cooks. Once done, remove from heat and set aside.
3. Prepare the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add olive oil and sauté the chopped onion and red bell pepper until they’re soft and translucent. This should take about 5 minutes.
4. Assemble the Casserole: In the prepared baking dish, spread the diced potatoes evenly across the bottom. Layer the cooked sausage over the potatoes. Add the sautéed onions and peppers on top of the sausage layer, guaranteeing an even distribution.
5. Mix the Egg Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika until well combined. Pour this mixture over the layered ingredients in the baking dish.
6. Add Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole evenly for a cheesy crust.
7. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 45-50 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean.
8. Cool and Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. This will make it easier to slice and serve.

Extra Tips:

To save time in the morning, you can prepare the casserole the night before. Simply assemble all the ingredients in the baking dish, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight. The next morning, remove the plastic wrap and bake as directed.

Additionally, feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or using a different type of cheese. Adjust the seasoning to suit your taste, and consider adding a touch of hot sauce if you prefer a little kick in your breakfast casserole.

Hash Brown & Bacon Delight

Start your morning off right with the irresistible comfort of a Hash Brown & Bacon Delight. This hearty breakfast casserole combines crispy hash browns, savory bacon, and melty cheese, all brought together in a rich, creamy mixture that’s perfect for feeding a crowd.

Whether you’re hosting a brunch or simply craving a satisfying breakfast, this casserole is bound to please with its layers of flavor and texture.

The beauty of the Hash Brown & Bacon Delight lies in its simplicity and versatility. You can prepare it the night before and pop it in the oven the next morning for an effortless breakfast. The combination of ingredients makes it a crowd-pleaser, whether served on a busy weekday morning or as a star attraction at a leisurely weekend brunch.

The result is a warm, delicious, and filling dish that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients for 4-6 servings:

• 4 cups frozen hash browns, thawed
• 8 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper
• 6 large eggs
• 1 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Cooking spray or butter for greasing

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This guarantees that the casserole cooks evenly and thoroughly.
2. Prepare the Baking Dish: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter. This will prevent the casserole from sticking and make for easy serving.
3. Cook the Bacon: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crisp. Remove from the skillet, drain on a paper towel, and crumble when cool enough to handle.
4. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed hash browns, crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped onion, and bell pepper. Mix well to guarantee even distribution of ingredients.
5. Mix the Egg Mixture: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. This mixture will bind the casserole together and add flavor.
6. Assemble the Casserole: Pour the hash brown mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Then, pour the egg mixture over the top, ensuring that it covers the hash browns completely.
7. Bake the Casserole: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
8. Cool and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the casserole to set properly and makes it easier to serve.

Extra Tips:

For added flavor, consider incorporating some chopped green onions or fresh herbs like parsley or chives into the casserole.

If you prefer a spicier dish, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños.

Additionally, if you’re preparing this casserole ahead of time, assemble it the night before, cover it with plastic wrap, and store it in the refrigerator.

In the morning, simply remove the wrap and bake as directed. This can be a huge time-saver when you’re hosting a brunch or have guests staying over.

Healthy Choices: Veggie Breakfast Strata

Start your morning off right with a delicious and nutritious Veggie Breakfast Strata. This dish is perfect for those who want a hearty meal without the heavy use of meats and cheeses. Packed with colorful vegetables and wholesome whole-grain bread, this strata is a delightful way to incorporate a variety of nutrients into your breakfast.

The combination of eggs, milk, and your favorite veggies creates a fluffy, flavorful dish that can be prepared ahead of time, making your morning routine easier and healthier. Perfect for a family breakfast or a weekend brunch, this Veggie Breakfast Strata is designed to serve 4-6 people.

The versatility of this dish allows you to use any vegetables you have on hand, making it a great option to reduce waste and use up those extra veggies in your fridge. With a few simple steps, you can have a satisfying and nutritious meal ready to be enjoyed by everyone at the table.

Ingredients (for 4-6 servings):

• 8 slices whole-grain bread, cubed
• 6 large eggs
• 2 cups milk (or a milk alternative)
• 1 cup chopped spinach
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your choice)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to allow it to preheat while you prepare the ingredients.

2. Prepare the Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic, sautéing until they’re translucent. Add the bell pepper, zucchini, and mushrooms, cooking until they’re tender.

Stir in the spinach and cook until wilted. Season with salt, pepper, oregano, and basil. Remove the skillet from heat and set aside.

3. Assemble the Strata: In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spread half of the cubed bread evenly across the bottom. Layer half of the vegetable mixture over the bread, followed by half of the shredded cheese.

Repeat with the remaining bread, vegetables, and cheese.

4. Prepare the Egg Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until well combined. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread and vegetable layers in the baking dish, ensuring all pieces are soaked.

5. Bake the Strata: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the eggs are set.

6. Cool and Serve: Allow the strata to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy!

Extra Tips:

For a burst of flavor, consider adding fresh herbs such as parsley or chives before serving. If you prefer a spicier dish, a pinch of red pepper flakes can be added to the vegetable sauté.

This dish can be prepared the night before and stored in the refrigerator; simply bake it in the morning. If you want to make it a bit richer, try adding a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on top when serving.

Cheesy Spinach & Mushroom Frittata

Cheesy Spinach & Mushroom Frittata is a delightful breakfast casserole that’s both nutritious and packed with flavor. This dish combines fresh spinach, earthy mushrooms, and creamy cheese, baked to perfection in a fluffy egg base. It’s perfect for a leisurely weekend brunch or a quick weekday breakfast that can be prepared in advance and enjoyed throughout the week.

The rich, savory flavors of the frittata are enhanced by the combination of herbs and spices, making it a satisfying meal for all ages. This frittata is versatile and can be customized with additional vegetables or proteins, such as bell peppers, onions, or cooked bacon, to suit your taste preferences.

The recipe is designed to serve 4-6 people, making it an ideal dish for family gatherings or meal prepping. With its simple preparation and delicious outcome, Cheesy Spinach & Mushroom Frittata is sure to become a staple in your breakfast repertoire.

Ingredients (for 4-6 servings):

• 8 large eggs
• 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
• 1/2 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This guarantees that the frittata bakes evenly and achieves a perfect texture.

2. Prepare the Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent.

Add the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms, cooking for another 3-4 minutes until the mushrooms are tender. Stir in the chopped spinach and cook until it wilts, approximately 2 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.

3. Mix the Egg Base: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg until well combined. Confirm the egg mixture is smooth to create a fluffy frittata.

4. Combine Ingredients: Stir the sautéed vegetable mixture into the egg mixture. Add in the shredded cheese and mix until all ingredients are evenly distributed.

5. Bake the Frittata: Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish or an oven-safe skillet. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the frittata is set and the top is golden brown.

6. Serve: Allow the frittata to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm.

Extra Tips:

When making a frittata, it’s essential not to overcook the eggs, as they can become rubbery. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when the frittata is ready.

Feel free to experiment with different cheeses or add more veggies for added flavor and texture. Leftover frittata can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days and makes for a quick and easy breakfast option when reheated.

Easy French Toast Delight

Wake up to the delicious aroma of Easy French Toast Delight, a breakfast casserole that combines the classic flavors of French toast with the convenience of a one-dish meal. This delightful breakfast casserole is perfect for weekends, holiday mornings, or any day when you want to treat yourself and your loved ones to something special.

With its warm, cinnamon-infused bread and a rich custard base, this dish brings comfort and joy to the breakfast table.

This Easy French Toast Delight isn’t only scrumptious but also incredibly simple to prepare. It’s an ideal dish for serving 4-6 people, making it perfect for family gatherings or brunch with friends. You can even prepare it the night before, allowing the bread to soak up all the custardy goodness, and then bake it fresh in the morning.

The result is a golden, fluffy casserole with a soft, creamy interior that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Ingredients (serving size: 4-6 people):

• 1 loaf of French bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 6 large eggs
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• Powdered sugar, for serving (optional)
• Maple syrup, for serving (optional)

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Bread: Start by cutting a loaf of French bread into 1-inch cubes. Place the cubes in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, distributing them evenly.
2. Make the Custard Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
3. Combine and Soak: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes in the baking dish, making certain all the bread is soaked. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
4. Preheat the Oven: When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
5. Bake the Casserole: Remove the baking dish from the refrigerator and uncover it. Drizzle the melted butter over the top of the soaked bread. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.
6. Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Dust with powdered sugar if desired and serve warm with maple syrup.

Extra Tips:

For a touch of variety, consider adding fresh fruits like blueberries or sliced strawberries before baking, or sprinkle chopped nuts for extra crunch.

If you’re preparing the dish ahead of time, make sure the bread is evenly soaked in the custard to prevent any dry spots. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.

Savory Ham & Swiss Quiche

If you’re searching for a delightful breakfast casserole that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare, seek no further than the Savory Ham & Swiss Quiche. Perfect for a leisurely weekend brunch or a family breakfast, this dish combines the rich flavors of ham and Swiss cheese with a creamy, custardy filling.

The buttery, flaky crust adds a wonderful texture, making each bite a perfect combination of flavors and consistency. Not only is this quiche delicious, but it’s also versatile enough to cater to different palates by incorporating additional ingredients like spinach, mushrooms, or onions.

This recipe is designed to serve 4-6 people, making it ideal for small gatherings or family meals. The preparation is straightforward, utilizing simple ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen. With a balance of protein from the ham and eggs, along with the irresistible taste of Swiss cheese, this quiche isn’t only delicious but also nutritious.

Whether you’re serving it hot out of the oven or enjoying leftovers the next day, the Savory Ham & Swiss Quiche is sure to be a hit.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6):

• 1 pre-made 9-inch pie crust
• 1 cup diced ham
• 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 4 large eggs
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to guarantee that it reaches the right temperature by the time you’re ready to bake the quiche.

2. Prepare the Pie Crust:

Roll out the pre-made pie crust and fit it into a 9-inch pie dish. Trim any excess dough hanging over the edge and crimp the edges for a decorative touch.

Place the pie dish in the refrigerator while you prepare the filling.

3. Prepare the Filling:

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and heavy cream until well combined. Add in the salt, pepper, and nutmeg, if using, and whisk again to incorporate all the ingredients evenly.

4. Assemble the Quiche:

Remove the pie crust from the refrigerator. Evenly distribute the diced ham and shredded Swiss cheese over the bottom of the crust. Pour the egg mixture over the top, ensuring that the ham and cheese are fully covered.

5. Bake the Quiche:

Place the pie dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is golden brown. To check for doneness, insert a knife into the center of the quiche; it should come out clean.

6. Cool and Serve:

Once baked, remove the quiche from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the filling to set completely, making it easier to cut clean slices. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Extra Tips:

For a crispier crust, you can pre-bake the pie crust for about 10 minutes before adding the filling. This prevents the crust from becoming soggy.

If you prefer a more flavorful quiche, try adding sautéed onions or spinach to the filling. For those who enjoy a bit of spice, a pinch of red pepper flakes can provide a nice kick.

Cinnamon Oatmeal Breakfast Casserole

Start your day off right with a warm and comforting Cinnamon Oatmeal Breakfast Casserole. This dish combines the wholesome goodness of oats with the sweet and aromatic touch of cinnamon, making it a perfect breakfast choice for chilly mornings.

It’s an easy-to-make casserole that can be prepared ahead of time and baked fresh in the morning, offering a hearty option for busy families or a special weekend treat.

This recipe is designed to serve 4-6 people, making it an ideal option for a family breakfast or brunch gathering. The casserole is made with simple and nutritious ingredients that provide a satisfying start to the day.

Whether you’re serving it plain or with a drizzle of maple syrup, this Cinnamon Oatmeal Breakfast Casserole is sure to become a favorite in your breakfast rotation.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups rolled oats
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 2 cups milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
• 1/2 cup raisins (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This guarantees the casserole will bake evenly once it’s ready to go into the oven.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, baking powder, and salt. Mix these ingredients well to make certain the spices are evenly distributed throughout the oats.
3. Prepare Wet Mixture: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and unsweetened applesauce until smooth. Make sure the eggs are well-incorporated into the liquid mixture.
4. Combine Ingredients: Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir until everything is well combined. Add the melted butter to the mixture and stir again to incorporate.
5. Add Optional Ingredients: If desired, fold in the chopped nuts and raisins. These add a delightful texture and sweetness to the casserole but are entirely optional based on your preference.
6. Transfer to Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish or a similar sized casserole dish. Pour the oatmeal mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly.
7. Bake the Casserole: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. The casserole should be set in the center and lightly golden on the top when done.
8. Cool and Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. This will help it firm up slightly, making it easier to slice and serve.

Extra Tips:

For a flavor twist, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or a handful of dried cranberries to the oatmeal mixture.

If you’re preparing this dish the night before, simply cover the assembled casserole with plastic wrap and refrigerate it. In the morning, remove from the fridge, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes, then bake as directed.

For a dairy-free option, substitute the milk with almond milk or another plant-based milk. Enjoy your Cinnamon Oatmeal Breakfast Casserole with a drizzle of maple syrup or a dollop of Greek yogurt for added creaminess.

Mexican-Inspired Chorizo & Egg Dish

Start your morning with a burst of flavor by preparing this Mexican-inspired Chorizo & Egg Breakfast Casserole. This dish combines the spicy and savory elements of chorizo sausage with fluffy eggs, melted cheese, and a hint of spice from jalapeños, making it a perfect breakfast or brunch option.

The casserole is easy to prepare and can be made in advance, making it ideal for feeding a family or a small gathering of 4-6 people. With its vibrant flavors and hearty ingredients, this casserole is sure to be a hit at your breakfast table.

The beauty of this Mexican-inspired breakfast casserole lies in its simplicity and flexibility. You can customize the dish to suit your taste by adding more vegetables or adjusting the spice level.

The combination of chorizo and cheese creates a rich, comforting dish that pairs wonderfully with a side of fresh salsa or avocado slices. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or just a regular morning, this casserole will brighten up your day with its enticing aroma and delicious taste.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6)

• 1 pound Mexican chorizo sausage, casing removed
• 8 large eggs
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and diced
• 4 cups diced potatoes or frozen hash browns
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent the casserole from sticking.
2. Cook the Chorizo: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chorizo, breaking it up into small pieces with a spoon, until it’s browned and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes. Remove the chorizo from the skillet and drain any excess fat.
3. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the diced onion, red bell pepper, and jalapeño. Cook until the vegetables are soft, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the diced potatoes or hash browns and cook until they begin to brown slightly, about another 5 minutes. Season with cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk. Stir in the cooked chorizo, sautéed vegetables, cheddar cheese, and Monterey Jack cheese. Mix until well combined.
6. Assemble the Casserole: Pour the egg mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Verify the ingredients are distributed uniformly in the dish.
7. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes or until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown. You can insert a toothpick in the center to check for doneness; it should come out clean.
8. Serve: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro before serving. Slice and serve warm.

Extra Tips

For a lighter version of this casserole, consider using turkey chorizo or a vegetarian sausage alternative. If you like your breakfast with more spice, feel free to add extra jalapeños or even a dash of hot sauce to the egg mixture.

You can also prepare this casserole the night before and store it in the refrigerator; simply bake it in the morning. Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to three days and reheated in the oven or microwave for a quick and satisfying breakfast.

Gluten-Free Casserole Recipes

Start your morning off right with this delicious Gluten-Free Breakfast Sausage and Sweet Potato Casserole. Perfect for those who need to avoid gluten, this hearty dish combines savory sausage with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes, all bound together by a rich blend of eggs and spices.

It’s an ideal breakfast option for a weekend brunch or a make-ahead meal for busy weekdays. Packed with protein and flavor, this casserole will keep you satisfied and energized throughout the morning.

This gluten-free breakfast casserole isn’t only easy to make but also highly customizable. You can easily swap out the vegetables or add your favorite cheese to suit your taste preferences. Best of all, this dish can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator, making it a convenient choice for meal prep.

Gather your ingredients, and let’s get started on creating this delectable breakfast casserole that serves 4-6 people!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound gluten-free breakfast sausage
• 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 8 large eggs
• 1/2 cup almond milk or any other preferred milk
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to guarantee it’s hot and ready for baking the casserole.
2. Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the gluten-free sausage until browned and fully cooked. Break it into small pieces with a spatula as it cooks. Once cooked, remove from heat and set aside.
3. Prepare the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the diced sweet potatoes, red bell pepper, green bell pepper, and onion. Sauté the vegetables until they’re tender, approximately 8-10 minutes.
4. Mix the Eggs and Seasoning: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, almond milk, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika until well combined.
5. Combine Ingredients: Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread the cooked sausage evenly over the bottom of the dish. Layer the sautéed vegetables on top of the sausage. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the sausage and vegetables. If using, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
6. Bake the Casserole: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes or until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown.
7. Garnish and Serve: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Extra Tips:

For a vegetarian version, you can replace the sausage with a plant-based alternative or simply add more vegetables like spinach or mushrooms.

If you prefer a spicier dish, add a dash of hot sauce or chopped jalapeños to the egg mixture. To make this dish ahead of time, you can assemble the casserole the night before and store it covered in the refrigerator.

In the morning, simply bake it as directed. This casserole also freezes well, so consider making a double batch and storing one for later use.