Introduction to Nana’s Classic Breakfast Casserole
Start your day with the comforting flavors of Nana’s Classic Breakfast Casserole—a hearty, flavorful dish that puts a delightful spin on traditional breakfast favorites. Packed with eggs, cheese, savory meats, and fresh veggies, this casserole is easy to prepare and perfect for feeding a crowd. Whether for weekend brunch or holiday mornings, Nana’s recipe brings warmth, nostalgia, and deliciousness to your table.
Why You’ll Love This Nana’s Classic Breakfast Casserole
Hearty and Filling: Loaded with protein and veggies to keep you energized all morning.
Comfort Food Classic: Familiar flavors with a fresh twist that feels both nostalgic and exciting.
Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare it the night before for a stress-free morning.
Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for family gatherings, brunches, or holiday celebrations.
Versatile Ingredients: Easily customize with your favorite meats, cheeses, and vegetables.
Ingredients for Nana’s Classic Breakfast Casserole
A classic breakfast casserole with a flavorful twist that everyone will love. Here’s what you’ll need:
Large eggs: The foundation of any breakfast casserole, providing protein and richness.
Milk: Adds creaminess and helps bind the ingredients together.
Salt: Enhances the flavors of the dish, making everything pop.
Black pepper: A dash of spice that balances the richness of the eggs and sausage.
Garlic powder: Infuses a savory depth that complements the other ingredients.
Onion powder: Adds a subtle sweetness and enhances the overall flavor profile.
Cooked breakfast sausage: The star of the show, bringing a savory, meaty goodness.
Frozen hash browns: These provide a delightful texture and heartiness, making the casserole filling.
Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully, adding a gooey, cheesy layer that everyone loves.
Diced bell pepper: A pop of color and crunch, plus a hint of sweetness.
Diced onion: Adds flavor and aroma, making the dish even more inviting.
For those looking to mix things up, consider these options:
For a spicy kick, toss in some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce.
Swap the breakfast sausage for crispy bacon or turkey sausage for a different flavor.
For a vegetarian twist, leave out the meat and add more veggies like spinach or mushrooms.
Exact quantities for each ingredient can be found at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!
How to Make Nana’s Classic Breakfast Casserole
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. This ensures that your casserole bakes evenly. While the oven warms up, grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and give it a good spray with cooking oil. This little step prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself later when you’re not scrubbing away at baked-on cheese!
Step 2: Whisk the Egg Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, crack open those eight large eggs. Add in the milk, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Whisk everything together until it’s well combined. You want a smooth, frothy mixture that looks inviting. This egg base is the heart of Nana’s Classic Breakfast Casserole, so give it a good whisk to incorporate air for fluffiness!
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Now, it’s time to bring the magic together! Add the crumbled breakfast sausage, thawed hash browns, shredded cheddar cheese, diced bell pepper, and diced onion to your egg mixture. Stir gently until everything is evenly coated. This is where the flavors meld, creating that comforting taste we all love. Don’t rush this step; it’s all about getting that perfect blend!
Step 4: Pour and Spread
Carefully pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it out evenly. This ensures that every slice has a bit of everything—eggs, sausage, cheese, and veggies. It’s like a colorful canvas of breakfast goodness waiting to be baked!
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Slide the baking dish into your preheated oven and let it bake for 45-50 minutes. Keep an eye on it! You’ll know it’s done when the center is set and the top is lightly golden. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be irresistible, making it hard to wait!
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes. This cooling time helps it set up nicely, making slicing easier. After that, grab a knife and cut it into squares. Serve warm, and watch everyone dig in with smiles!
Tips for Success
Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor—fresh eggs and quality sausage make a difference.
Let the casserole cool slightly before slicing to maintain its shape.
Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack for a spicy twist.
Make it ahead of time! Prepare the night before and bake in the morning.
Don’t skip the seasoning; it’s key to elevating the dish!
Equipment Needed
9×13-inch baking dish: Essential for baking the casserole. A similar-sized dish works too.
Mixing bowl: For whisking the egg mixture. Any large bowl will do.
Whisk: To combine ingredients smoothly. A fork can work in a pinch.
Spatula: For spreading the mixture evenly. A wooden spoon is a great alternative.
Measuring cups: Helpful for precise ingredient amounts, but eyeballing works too!
Variations
Spicy Southwest: Add diced jalapeños and a sprinkle of taco seasoning for a zesty kick.
Veggie Delight: Swap the sausage for sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and zucchini for a hearty vegetarian option.
Cheesy Broccoli: Mix in steamed broccoli florets and use a blend of cheddar and mozzarella for extra cheesiness.
Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like chives or parsley for a burst of freshness.
Breakfast Burrito Style: Serve the casserole in tortillas with salsa and avocado for a fun twist.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with fresh fruit salad for a refreshing contrast to the hearty casserole.
Serve alongside crispy bacon or sausage links for a protein-packed breakfast.
Complement with a side of buttery toast or flaky croissants.
Offer coffee, orange juice, or a mimosa to elevate your brunch experience.
Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color.
FAQs about Nana’s Classic Breakfast Casserole
Can I make Nana’s Classic Breakfast Casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole the night before and store it in the fridge. Just pop it in the oven in the morning for a quick and easy breakfast.
What can I substitute for breakfast sausage?
If sausage isn’t your thing, feel free to swap it out for crispy bacon or turkey sausage. You can even go meatless by adding more veggies!
How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Just reheat in the microwave or oven when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
Can I freeze Nana’s Classic Breakfast Casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well! Just make sure to cool it completely before wrapping it tightly and placing it in the freezer. It can last up to three months.
What sides pair well with this casserole?
Fresh fruit salad, crispy bacon, or a side of buttery toast make excellent companions to Nana’s Classic Breakfast Casserole. They add a nice balance to the hearty dish!
Final Thoughts
Nana’s Classic Breakfast Casserole is more than just a meal; it’s a cherished tradition that brings family and friends together. The joy of sharing this hearty dish, filled with flavors and memories, is truly special. Each bite transports you back to cozy mornings spent laughing and enjoying each other’s company. Whether it’s a busy weekday or a leisurely weekend brunch, this casserole is your ticket to comfort and satisfaction. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your loved ones, and let the aroma of this delightful dish fill your home with warmth and happiness!
Nana’s Classic Breakfast Casserole is a delicious and hearty dish perfect for breakfast or brunch, featuring eggs, sausage, and cheese.
Ingredients
Scale
8 large eggs
2 cups milk
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
8 ounces cooked breakfast sausage, crumbled
2 cups frozen hash browns, thawed
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup diced bell pepper (any color)
1/2 cup diced onion
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder until well combined.
Add the crumbled sausage, thawed hash browns, shredded cheddar cheese, diced bell pepper, and diced onion to the egg mixture. Stir until all ingredients are evenly coated.
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the casserole is set in the middle and lightly golden on top.
Let the casserole cool for about 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
For a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the egg mixture.
You can substitute the breakfast sausage with cooked bacon or turkey sausage for a different flavor.
For a vegetarian option, omit the meat and add more vegetables like spinach or mushrooms.
