Pioneer Woman Breakfast Casserole

Imagine waking up to the mouthwatering aroma of breakfast wafting through your home, a savory blend of sausage, eggs, and cheese inviting you to the kitchen. That’s the magic of the Pioneer Woman Breakfast Casserole. This hearty dish brings comfort and satisfaction, making it a perfect choice for family brunches, holiday gatherings, or even a cozy weeknight dinner. When I first discovered this recipe, I was impressed by how easily it came together while delivering a feast for the senses. It’s become a staple in my kitchen, and I’m excited for you to try it!

What Makes This Recipe Special

This Pioneer Woman Breakfast Casserole is a game-changer for mornings. It’s quick to prepare, budget-friendly, and undoubtedly kid-approved. Imagine the delight of your family as they dig into layers of crispy hash browns, creamy eggs, and gooey cheddar cheese – it’s pure comfort on a plate. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or hosting a brunch, this dish is versatile and perfect for any occasion.

“I made this for a family gathering, and everyone couldn’t stop raving about it! It’s a total crowd-pleaser.” – A delighted home cook

The Cooking Process Explained

Creating this breakfast wonder is straightforward and rewarding. You’ll start by browning the sausage and sautéing the veggies. While that cools, you’ll whip up a creamy egg mixture, then combine everything together along with hash browns and cheese. After a quick bake, you’ll have a warm, bubbling casserole that’s ready to serve. Here’s how the steps break down:

1. Prepare your ingredients and preheat your oven.
2. Cook the sausage, red bell pepper, and green onions.
3. Whisk together eggs and cream, then combine with the cooled sausage mix and hash browns.
4. Bake and top with cheese for a finishing touch.

What You’ll Need

To whip up this delicious casserole, gather the following 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

Substitutions can include turkey sausage for a leaner option, or using different cheeses like pepper jack for a spicy twist!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s get cooking! Follow these steps for a perfect Pioneer Woman Breakfast Casserole:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray.
2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the breakfast sausage, red bell pepper, and the light green parts of the green onions until the sausage is browned and the vegetables have softened, about 6 to 8 minutes. Set aside to cool slightly.
3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, Dijon mustard, optional Tabasco, salt, black pepper, and half of the green onion tops.
4. Stir in 1 ½ cups of cheddar cheese and the thawed hash browns into the egg mixture. Gently fold in the cooled sausage mixture. Pour everything into the prepared baking dish.
5. Cover the dish with foil and bake for about 50 minutes to meld the flavors together.
6. Remove the foil, sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top, and increase the oven temperature to 400°F. Bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese is melted and the top is lightly browned.
7. After baking, let the casserole rest for 10 minutes. Before serving, sprinkle the remaining green onion tops on top for garnish.

Best Ways to Enjoy It

Serving this breakfast casserole is as fulfilling as making it! It can stand alone as a hearty main dish or be paired with fresh fruit, a light salad, or a side of crispy bacon. For a delightful beverage pairing, consider mimosas or freshly brewed coffee, both of which complement the savory flavors beautifully.

How to Store and Reheat

If you have leftovers (or if you made a double batch, which I highly recommend!), here’s how to store it:

• Storage: Let the casserole cool completely before covering it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It can be refrigeration for up to 3 to 4 days.
• Reheating: For best results, reheat individual portions in a microwave or warm the whole casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through.

Helpful Cooking Tips

Here are a few tips to ensure your casserole turns out perfectly every time:

• Don’t rush the cooling: Allowing the sausage mixture to cool slightly helps prevent the eggs from curdling.
• Customize the spice: Adjust the Tabasco based on your spice preference or omit it for a mild flavor.
• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh green onions and vegetables will enhance the flavor remarkably!

Recipe Variations

Get creative with your casserole by trying these variations:

• Vegetable Lovers: Add spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra veggie goodness.
• Cheese Swap: Try feta or mozzarella instead of cheddar for a different flavor profile.
• Spice it Up: Include jalapeños or hot sausage for a spicy kick that’ll wake up your taste buds.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does this casserole take to prepare?

The overall prep time is about 20 minutes, with an additional 60 minutes of cooking time.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it the night before and bake it in the morning for an effortless brunch option.

What other toppings can I use?

Feel free to experiment with toppings like avocado slices, salsa, or even a drizzle of sour cream for creamy goodness!

Enjoy this delightful Pioneer Woman Breakfast Casserole, and watch it become a favorite in your household just like it has in mine! Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a quiet morning at home, every bite is a taste of comfort.

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