Pioneer Woman Breakfast Casserole

When I first stumbled upon the Pioneer Woman Breakfast Casserole, I knew I had found a gem. Combining rich flavors and hearty ingredients, it’s the kind of dish that beckons on a lazy weekend morning or festive family gathering. It’s a versatile breakfast option that satisfies everyone—from kids to adults. This wonderful casserole brings together crisp green onions, savory sausage, and creamy eggs topped with melted cheddar, making it a standout choice for those who love a comforting meal. It quickly became a staple in my kitchen, and I’m excited to share the magic with you!

Why You’ll Love This Dish

This breakfast casserole encapsulates all the elements of a satisfying morning meal. It’s hearty, budget-friendly, and incredibly easy to prepare. Perfect for lazy Sundays, brunch parties, or even meal prep for the week ahead, this dish is flexible enough to suit any occasion. Here’s what makes it truly special:

"I made this for a family breakfast, and everyone went back for seconds! It’s the perfect blend of flavors and so filling. I’m definitely adding it to my regular rotation!" – Jane, home cook

With minimal prep and a straightforward cooking process, you can whip it up in no time. It’s the ideal “set it and forget it” dish that rises to the occasion and makes your breakfast both delicious and worry-free.

The Cooking Process Explained

Making the Pioneer Woman Breakfast Casserole is a breeze! You’ll start by cooking the sausage and veggies, followed by a simple mix of eggs and cream. Then, it’s all about layering and baking. Here’s a quick snapshot of the steps:

1. Cook the sausage and vegetables.
2. Whisk together the egg mixture with seasonings and cheese.
3. Combine everything and transfer to a baking dish.
4. Bake until beautifully set and topped with bubbling cheese.

This recipe allows for that incredible melding of flavors that only bakes together can achieve, resulting in a dish that’s both comforting and satisfying.

Gather These Items

Here’s what you’ll need to create this mouthwatering casserole:

• 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

You can easily substitute ground turkey for the sausage or switch out the cheddar cheese for your favorite variety if desired. Also, fresh vegetables can replace frozen hash browns if you’re feeling adventurous!

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly 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 for 6 to 8 minutes, or until the sausage is browned and the vegetables are soft. Set aside to cool.
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 the cheddar cheese and the thawed hash browns into the egg mixture.
5. Gently fold in the cooled sausage mixture until well combined.
6. Pour everything into the prepared baking dish.
7. Cover the dish with foil and bake for about 50 minutes.
8. Remove the foil, sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top, and raise the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C).
9. Bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese is melted and the casserole is golden brown.
10. Once out of the oven, allow it to rest for 10 minutes. Before serving, sprinkle the remaining green onion tops on for garnish.

Best Ways to Enjoy It

Serving the Pioneer Woman Breakfast Casserole is all about complementing its rich flavors. Pair it with fresh fruit salad or buttery croissants for an indulgent brunch. A side of crispy bacon or sausage links can enhance the heartiness of this dish. If you’re feeling fancy, a drizzle of hollandaise sauce elevates the meal to restaurant-quality status. And don’t forget a steaming cup of coffee or fresh-squeezed orange juice to wash it down!

How to Store and Reheat

Have leftovers? No problem! Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they’ll stay fresh for up to 4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy again, simply pop it in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for a quick reheat. Just be cautious, as the cheese can get very hot!

Helpful Cooking Tips

1. Ingredient Prep: Thaw your hash browns in advance to save time. You can even chop the vegetables the night before for quick assembly in the morning.

2. Make Ahead: Prepare the casserole the night before and store it in the fridge. Bake it fresh in the morning; just adjust the cooking time as it will be cold when you start.

3. Consistency: For fluffier texture, let the egg mixture sit for a few minutes before baking. This allows the flavors to meld wonderfully!

Variations

Feel like mixing it up? Here are some fun ideas:

• Swap in different veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini.
• Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter version.
• Try pepper jack cheese for a spicy kick, or go for feta for a Mediterranean twist.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to prepare?

Preparation takes about 20 minutes, with a total cooking time of about 1 hour (including both baking steps).

Can I freeze the casserole?

Yes! You can freeze the uncooked casserole for up to 2 months. Just thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Omit the sausage and consider adding extra veggies or a meat alternative like tempeh or tofu to maintain the hearty texture.

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