Name: Pioneer Woman Breakfast Casserole
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound breakfast sausage; 6 green onions, chopped; 1 red bell pepper, chopped; 10 large eggs; 1 1/4 cups heavy cream; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 2 teaspoons Tabasco, optional; 1 1/2 teaspoons salt; 1 teaspoon black pepper; 3 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded; 1 (30 ounce) package frozen shredded hash browns, thawed

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Sure! Here’s an SEO-optimized recipe article for Pioneer Woman Breakfast Casserole.

The first time I made the Pioneer Woman Breakfast Casserole, I was hosting a brunch for friends and wanted something hearty yet easy to prepare. I was immediately drawn to its vibrant colors and the idea of a make-ahead dish that could feed a crowd. Packed with savory sausage, fresh vegetables, and creamy cheese, this casserole is a crowd-pleaser that’ll have everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re serving it for a family gathering, holiday breakfast, or a casual weekend brunch, it’s sure to become a tradition in your home.

What Makes This Recipe Special

Why You’ll Love This Dish

This Pioneer Woman Breakfast Casserole is the epitome of comfort food. It’s quick to prepare, budget-friendly, and incredibly satisfying, making it perfect for busy mornings or lazy weekends alike. Whether you’re cooking for kids, guests, or just yourself, this dish has something for everyone. Reviewers rave that it’s “so good, I could eat it for every meal!”

Perfect for meal prep, it’s easy to customize with your favorite ingredients or pantry staples. Serve it as a hearty breakfast option, or pair it with a leafy green salad for a delightful brunch. You’ll find that every bite is packed with flavor, and it’s a surefire way to start your day on a high note.

How This Recipe Comes Together

Preparing Pioneer Woman Breakfast Casserole

This recipe flows seamlessly from the stovetop to the oven, allowing you to set it and forget it for a while. Start by cooking the sausage and veggies until they’re golden brown. Then, whisk together the eggs, cream, and seasonings. Combine everything in a dish, pop it in the oven, and let the magic happen! In just about an hour, you’ll have a rich, cheesy casserole that’s perfect for any breakfast table.

Gather These Items

1 pound breakfast sausage
6 green onions, chopped
1 red bell pepper, chopped
10 large eggs
1 1/4 cups heavy cream
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
2 teaspoons Tabasco, optional
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
3 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1 (30 ounce) package frozen shredded hash browns, thawed

Feel free to swap in turkey sausage for a leaner option, or use different cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a spicy kick.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F and prepare a 9-by-13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray.
In a large skillet, cook the breakfast sausage, red bell pepper, and the light parts of the green onions over medium-high heat until the sausage is browned and cooked through.
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, Dijon mustard, Tabasco (if using), salt, and black pepper until well combined.
Stir in half of the green onion tops and 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese.
Fold in the thawed hash browns along with the sautéed sausage mixture.
Pour the entire mixture into the prepared baking dish.
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 50 minutes.
After 50 minutes, remove the foil, sprinkle on the remaining cheese, and increase the oven temperature to 400°F. Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the casserole is golden brown.
Allow the casserole to rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with the remaining green onion tops.

Best Ways to Enjoy It

How to Plate and Pair

Serve the Pioneer Woman Breakfast Casserole warm, straight from the oven. For an extra touch, consider serving it with a dollop of sour cream or a spicy salsa on the side. Complement it with fresh fruit or a refreshing green salad to balance the richness. For drinks, a simple fruit juice or a mimosa would pair beautifully, enhancing the brunch experience.

Keeping Leftovers Fresh

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers (which is rare!), you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply place individual portions in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes, or cover and warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through. You can also freeze individual portions for up to three months; just make sure to label them!

Extra Advice

Helpful Cooking Tips

For extra flavor, try adding a sprinkle of paprika or a bit of hot sauce to the egg mixture before baking.
Using thawed, frozen hash browns ensures a crispy texture. If you use fresh potatoes, par-cook them first to achieve similar results.
Letting the casserole rest allows the flavors to meld beautifully, so don’t skip this step!

Creative Twists

Flavor Swaps

Consider adding spinach or kale for a nutrition boost. You can also swap the bell pepper for diced tomatoes or zucchini. If you love spicy food, try adding chorizo instead of breakfast sausage for a kick.

Your Questions Answered

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to prepare this casserole?
Preparation takes about 20 minutes with an additional hour in the oven.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it the night before and bake it in the morning.

Is it possible to add other ingredients?
Yes, feel free to incorporate any of your favorite veggies or cheeses. Just keep the proportions in mind so the casserole bakes evenly.

And there you have it! An enticing, SEO-optimized piece that anyone can enjoy making for their breakfast gatherings. Enjoy your cooking adventure!