Loaded Breakfast Casserole

Ingredients

8 ounces bacon, fried and crumbled

1 pound sausage, ground

12 eggs

1 pound hash browns, with onions and peppers

1 tsp garlic powder

½ cup milk

½ tsp salt

½ tsp black pepper

2 cups Cheddar Cheese, freshly shredded

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375*

Lightly grease a 9×13 baking pan

Brown the ground sausage in a skillet over medium high heat, drain excess fat

Fry the bacon, let cool and then crumble

Combine the hash browns, bacon, sausage and cheese together

In a bowl whisk together the eggs, milk, garlic powder, salt and pepper

Pour the egg mix over the casserole and bake for 40 to 50 minutes

Sprinkle a little more cheese on the top in the last 5 minutes of baking time

Enjoy!

Nutrition Information:

YIELD: 6 SERVING SIZE: 1

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this casserole ahead of time.

Simply assemble the casserole as instructed but refrain from pouring the egg mixture over it until you’re ready to bake.

Cover the assembled casserole tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate overnight.

When ready to bake, pour the egg mixture over the casserole and bake according to the recipe instructions.

Can I use different types of cheese in this casserole?

Absolutely! While cheddar cheese adds a classic flavor, you can certainly experiment with different cheeses according to your preference.

Gouda, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack can be delicious alternatives or you can even mix different cheeses for a unique flavor profile.

Can I use frozen hash browns instead of fresh ones?

Yes, you can substitute frozen hash browns for fresh ones in this recipe.

However, make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before using to prevent excess moisture in the casserole.

Can I omit the bacon to make it vegetarian?

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Certainly! If you prefer a vegetarian version of this casserole, you can omit the bacon.

You might want to add some additional seasoning or vegetables to enhance the flavor profile since the bacon won’t contribute its smoky flavor.

Can I freeze leftovers of this casserole?

Yes, you can freeze leftovers of this casserole for future meals.

Once the casserole has cooled completely, slice it into individual portions and wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.

Place the wrapped portions in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bags and freeze for up to 2-3 months.

To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.

Can I use turkey bacon or turkey sausage instead of pork?

Yes, you can substitute turkey bacon or turkey sausage for the pork varieties if you prefer a leaner option.

Adjust the cooking time accordingly as turkey products may cook faster than their pork counterparts.

What can I use instead of hash browns if I don’t have any?

If you don’t have hash browns on hand, you can use shredded potatoes or even cubed potatoes as a substitute.

Ensure they are cooked or partially cooked before adding them to the casserole to ensure they cook through evenly.

Can I add vegetables to this casserole?

Absolutely! Feel free to add diced bell peppers, spinach, tomatoes, or any other vegetables you enjoy to the casserole mixture for added flavor and nutrients.

Is it necessary to use freshly shredded cheese, or can I use pre-shredded cheese?

While freshly shredded cheese often melts more evenly and has a better texture, you can use pre-shredded cheese if that’s what you have available.

Just be aware that pre-shredded cheese may contain anti-caking agents that can affect the texture slightly.

Can I make this casserole in a different sized baking dish?

Yes, you can adjust the size of the baking dish, but keep in mind that it may affect the cooking time and thickness of the casserole.

If using a smaller dish, you may need to increase the baking time slightly to ensure it cooks through completely.

Can I use non-dairy milk instead of regular milk?

Yes, you can use non-dairy milk alternatives such as almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk in place of regular milk if you have dietary restrictions or preferences.

How can I tell if the casserole is fully cooked?

The casserole is fully cooked when the eggs are set and the top is golden brown.

You can also insert a knife or toothpick into the center, and if it comes out clean, the casserole is done.

Can I add hot sauce or other seasonings for extra flavor?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize the seasoning to your taste preferences.

Hot sauce, paprika, or even some diced jalapeños can add a nice kick to the casserole.

Can I prepare this casserole the night before and bake it in the morning?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole the night before and refrigerate it overnight.

In the morning, simply preheat the oven and bake according to the instructions.

This is a convenient option for busy mornings or when hosting brunch.

How should I store leftovers, and how long will they last?

Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until heated through before serving.