There’s something about a cowboy casserole breakfast that feels like a warm hug on a chilly morning. It reminds me of weekends at Mama Lou’s house where the aroma of a hearty breakfast filled the air, promising a day of adventure on her sprawling farm. Those mornings were magical, and today, I want to share a dish that captures that essence—perfect for the busy lives we lead, yet rich with nostalgia and flavor.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Cowboy Casserole Breakfast
This cowboy casserole breakfast isn’t just a dish; it’s a comforting start to your day that brings the family together. It’s loaded with flavors that appeal to both kids and adults alike, making it a favorite for those hectic mornings. The combination of savory sausage, crispy potatoes, and gooey cheese will leave everyone asking for seconds. Plus, it’s a breeze to throw together, so even on your busiest days, you can enjoy a homemade breakfast that feels like a weekend treat.
Ingredients You’ll Need for This Cowboy Casserole Breakfast
Gathering the ingredients is as simple as a trip to your pantry and a quick stop at the grocery store. Here’s what you’ll need:
| Ingredient |
|---|
| Breakfast sausage |
| Frozen hash browns |
| Cheddar cheese |
| Eggs |
| Milk |
| Onions |
| Bell peppers |
| Salt and pepper |
Nutrition Facts
| Calories | 350 |
|---|---|
| Protein | 18g |
| Carbohydrates | 25g |
| Fat | 20g |
Cowboy Casserole Breakfast
A hearty breakfast casserole combining sausage, hash browns, and cheese for a delicious morning meal.
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients
Gathering the ingredients is as simple as a trip to your pantry and a quick stop at the grocery store. Here’s what you’ll need:
| Ingredient |
|---|
| Breakfast sausage |
| Frozen hash browns |
| Cheddar cheese |
| Eggs |
| Milk |
| Onions |
| Bell peppers |
| Salt and pepper |
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the breakfast sausage in a skillet until browned.
- In a large bowl, mix the cooked sausage, hash browns, cheddar cheese, diced onions, and bell peppers.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, and pepper.
- Combine the egg mixture with the sausage and hash brown mixture, and pour into a greased baking dish.
- Bake for 45 minutes or until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Feel free to add additional vegetables or spices to suit your taste.
- This casserole can be prepared the night before and stored in the refrigerator until ready to bake.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 200mg
Steps to Create Your Cowboy Casserole Breakfast
Creating this cowboy casserole breakfast is a straightforward process that even the little ones can help with. Here’s how:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F. This gives you time to prepare the other ingredients while it heats up.
- Cook the sausage. In a skillet over medium heat, cook your breakfast sausage until browned. Drain excess grease.
- Mix the ingredients. In a large bowl, combine the hash browns, cooked sausage, cheese, chopped onions, and bell peppers.
- Prepare the egg mixture. Whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper. Pour this mixture over the hash brown mix and combine well.
- Assemble the casserole. Pour the casserole mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Bake. Place in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden and the eggs are set.
- Let it cool. Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps it set and makes serving easier.
Tips for Making the Best Cowboy Casserole Breakfast
Here are some tips that I’ve gathered over the years to ensure your cowboy casserole breakfast turns out perfectly every time:
“Always cook with love and a little bit of humor, just like Mama Lou used to say when the pans were clanging and laughter was abundant.”
- Use fresh ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh onions and bell peppers for the best flavor.
- Customize the cheese: If cheddar isn’t your favorite, try swapping it for Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a little kick.
- Pre-cook the hash browns: For extra crispiness, pre-cook the hash browns in a skillet before mixing them into the casserole.
- Make it vegetarian: Skip the sausage and add more veggies or a meat substitute for a vegetarian twist.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
This cowboy casserole breakfast pairs beautifully with a side of fresh fruit or a simple green salad to balance the richness. A glass of freshly squeezed orange juice or a steaming cup of coffee complements the meal perfectly. For a special weekend brunch, consider adding some warm, buttery biscuits on the side.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Leftovers of this cowboy casserole breakfast store well, making it a great option for meal prep. Simply cover and refrigerate for up to three days. To reheat, place a portion in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or until heated through. For a crispier texture, consider reheating in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Absolutely! Prepare the casserole the night before, cover, and refrigerate. In the morning, bake it fresh for a stress-free breakfast.
- Can I freeze the casserole? Yes, you can! Allow the casserole to cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. It’ll keep for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- What other ingredients can I add? The sky’s the limit! Try adding mushrooms, spinach, or jalapeños for extra flavor.
Final Thoughts
Crafting a cowboy casserole breakfast is like sharing a piece of my heart with you. This dish is not only delicious but also a celebration of mornings spent with loved ones, reminiscent of those cherished times with Mama Lou and Ouma. As you enjoy this comforting meal, may it fill your home with warmth and togetherness, just as it has done for mine.
